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.

"Don't let it be forgot
That once there was a spot
For one brief shining moment…"
That was Ferelden
Ruled by King Maric the Savior
Camelot – Lerner and Lowe

Chapter 52 – DIPLOMACY


9:29 Dragon Bloomingtide === Royal Palace, Denerim

"Will you hate it here?" Lys frowned slightly as she watched Kai unpacking their belongings. Their large, bright rooms, near the Queen's apartment, provided bedrooms on either side of a spacious common room. They shared a garderobe with the adjoining apartment. This part of the palace connected to ancient sewers maintained since Tevinter times. Servants opened a cistern on the roof to flush them out daily. Castle Cousland had a similar system. Water to flush out garderobes must be one of the benefits of living in a wet climate.

Lys turned to look out the open window. Unlike the smaller apartments on the opposite side of the hall, these rooms overlooked the garden. Bloomingtide had lived up to its name this year. Flowers blossomed and fruit ripened on trees in every corner of the carefully planned royal garden. Lys sniffed and leaned out. A vine crept up the wall just beneath her second floor window. It must be jasmine. I'm surprised it grows so far south. She leaned out and reached down to pluck a flower, but the blooms remained just out of reach.

Kai watched Lys covertly. Maker she's restless. Kai placed Lys' new gowns in the chest by the bed. If she thinks I hate it here, she'll try to fix it, and Maker knows how that will end. Besides, it's not been awful so far. Vaughan Kendalls isn't even in Denerim now that the wedding is over. Neither is Thomas Howe. When I'm out, I'll wear Cousland livery quartered with a royal crest. No one will bother me. I can see my family. I might enjoy this.

"No, My Lady, I won't hate it at all. I have bad memories of Denerim, but now I can replace them with good ones. I'll enjoy being close to my family again."

"Good, because I would miss you." Lys looked relieved, but worried. "You don't have to stay. Cousin Samuel will give you work at House Haris in Highever or Cumberland; or you can join the Wrath."

"I want to stay with you, My Lady."

"Those My Ladys are for practice, right?"

Kai turned away from Lys to hide her grin. "Practice?"

"Dammit Kai."

Kai turned back still grinning. "No, the My Lady is not practice. I'll call you My Lady whenever we are in the Palace. I won't be overly familiar in front of the palace staff."

Lys rolled her eyes. "Fine. I do hate that, you know. I've gotten used to you being my friend." A flicker of doubt showed in the slight frown, which Lys smoothed out immediately. "We are friends, right?"

"We are…My Lady. As your friend, I suggest you help me or go spar. You're restlessness makes me nervous."

Lys gave a huff of exasperation. Sherpa butted her leg. "What! I shouldn't be exasperated with her?" Sherpa sat and stared. "I swear Kai, she favors you over me." Lys stuck her tongue out at Sherpa, but went over to the bed and began to place tunics and leggings into the clothes chest.

"I think, My Lady, that you need to spar. Perhaps, My Lady, we should find the practice yard."

"I think, My...Friend, you're right."

Kai put down the tunic she had been folding and walked over to Lys and hugged her. After a brief hesitation, Lys hugged back.

"I thought for a moment you were going to hit me."

"No." Kai stepped back. "At least not here, My Lady."

"I'm adjusting…perhaps too slowly. I didn't expect this, you know. I've never been presented at Court. Queen Anora says I should ignore that. Being her Lady equates with being accepted at Court even without the ceremony. I'm just apprehensive." Lys put the last of her tunics into the chest. She closed it and sat on the seat formed by the lid. "I'm out of practice at being a Lady. I liked the free life that being Layne Haris the merchant gave me."

Lys stood and walked over to the armor stand.

"I think you're right. I need to relax. We should spar." She opened the arms chest and took out her arming clothes. "Leave the rest of the clothes. They'll be here later. Queen Anora doesn't need me until morning." Lys grinned. "See, I remembered to say Queen Anora. Maker I know I'll mis-speak and call her Anora. Pippa's already lecturing me about how to behave and I haven't done anything wrong yet. Of course she is head Lady now that Habren's gone." She rolled her eyes at the thought of obeying Habren. "I don't know how Pippa did it. I can't imagine taking orders from Habren. Kai, put on your leathers. Let's explore." Lys smirked. "As my Lady's Maid, you have to obey. No arguments."

"That will never happen. I will always let you know when I disagree. Respectfully, of course, My Lady." Kai ducked as a satin slipper flew past her shoulder.

"Let's go. I do need to hit something. Sherpa you come too."

o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o

Kai, Sherpa and Lys made their way to the ground floor and found a door opening into the garden.

"You could ask a guard how to find the Armory from here. We only passed a half dozen before we left the palace." Kai stood with arms crossed looking for a way out of the garden.

"Do they speak?"

Kai giggled. "Now that you mention it, I don't know. I could ask a servant."

"Well, let's see if the garden has a gate." Lys looked back at the palace, which formed a wide 'U' surrounding the gardens. The area enclosed by the palace had winding paths encircling plantings. Some beds held flowers or flowering bushes in full summer bloom. Other beds held taller evergreens or small trees, often with a bench or green space for sitting. Ripe cherries hung from one tree. Peaches, apples and pears ripened on others. Close to the wall, where the sun warmed the brick and stone, Lys saw an apricot tree.

"I wonder if they grow oranges and lemons as well? I haven't had one since Antiva City. Mum always says she will try to grow them, but she never has."

The late morning sun glinted off several small ponds scattered among the plantings. The gardens spilled beyond the ends of the palace towards the high rear wall. It marked the western boundary of the palace grounds. Guard posts and a wall walk crowned that wall. As if to pacify its martial purpose, roses covered the brick. Lys surveyed the wider expanse. "Those look like the kitchen gardens to the south, beyond that low wall. We need to go north to find the armory."

When they reached the north side of the gardens, they followed a lower wall that reached just above their heads.

"The armory and stable range must be on the other side of this wall." Lys looked for a gate. Towards the wall's end they found one flanked by two guards.

"Are you keeping us in? Or can you let us pass through to the armory?"

One guardswoman frowned, ignored Lys' question and asked one of her own. "What are you doing inside the gardens? These are restricted to Their Majesties and noble guests."

"We came from our apartment in the North Wing of the Palace. I'm Lady Melysande Cousland, one of Her Majesty's Ladies-in-Waiting."

"I know of no Lady-in-Waiting by that name.," the Guard scoffed. "Her Majesty and her ladies rarely dress in armor," she added, clearly disapproving of Lys' worn leathers. "When they do, it's fine leathers showing their family crest, not worn, scuffed, unmarked armor. They practice archery. They don't wander the gardens carrying blades."

"We're trying to get to practice yard," Lys explained, giving Kai a sidelong glance. "To spar and my armor does-"

"-Her Majesty's Ladies do not spar."

"If you would let me finish, look at the crest on my armor and Kai's." Lys pointed to the worn Cousland laurel wreath.

The other guard walked behind Kai and Lys.

"Uh oh." Kai whispered. "This doesn't look good, My Lady." Sherpa stepped forward next to Lys and growled quietly.

"My Lady, is it? Should that convince me, elf?" The guard looked at Sherpa. "I suppose the hound is yours as well?"

"Mabari tend to stay with their chosen human. Of course, she's mine." Lys put a hand on Sherpa's neck. "Steady girl. The guard is doing her job."

Sherpa settled, but remained tense.

"Wearing weapons in the Royal Gardens will add to your offense."

"What offense?"

"Being in the gardens. You must have scaled a wall to get here. That hound, if yours, also counts as a weapon. Come along. You'll get through the gate alright. And go right to the cells until the Captain can decide what to do with you."

"Wait, what? Why would we walk up to you and ask to leave, if we wanted to get into the Palace or harm someone? And how does a hound scale a wall?"

The guardswoman glared. "You probably already committed your crimes. Thievery, most likely. We'll find what you took."

"Thievery. Look at my weapons and my leathers. See the crest? Look, this is my personal Cousland signet." Lys held out her hand.

"No Couslands are here today. You probably stole that. The ring will be evidence."

"Of what? You just said there are no Couslands here. From whom could it be stolen?" Lys argued.

The guard frowned, confused by the Lys' arguments.

Lys continued. "My mother, the Teyrna of Highever, and I attended Queen Anora when Crown Princess Elin was born."

"Well, I don't know anything about that, but the Crown Princess was born months ago." She grabbed Lys' arm and Kai's with the other guard grabbed Kai. Sherpa growled.

"Is there a problem, guardswoman?"

"Your Grace." The guardswoman bowed awkwardly to Teyrn Loghain. Hap stood next to his master. "I found these two wandering the gardens. I don't know how they got in, but I'm detaining them now."

Loghain's mouth quirked up at one corner. "They do look like the dangerous sort."

"Teyrn Loghain!" Lys objected, as Hap greeted his sister with pleased whuffs.

"Quiet. Don't address your betters." The Guards shouted shaking their prisoners.

Sherpa and Hap both growled to the discomfiture of the two guards.

"I'll take them guardswoman." Loghain said quickly. "And…uh…you should remember Lady Cousland's face because she is, indeed, a Cousland and one of my daughter's Ladies. She does, indeed, spar and her ring is, indeed, a Cousland signet. Her mabari is sister to mine."

"I…Your Ladyship." The guardswomen flushed and released Lys and Kai.

Lys waved her hand. "You're just doing your job, guardswomen. Although I do suggest you look at a signet when it's presented to you. Particularly as it matches the crest on my leathers, worn tho' they may be, and those on my blades." Lys scratched Sherpa's head and then petted Hap. "Not provoking mabari might be a good idea, too.

The guardswomen, still flushed, stepped back to their posts and nodded. "I'll do that, My Lady," one said.

Lys looked at the Teyrn. He looked tired. He wore old leathers as well and carried a battered sword and shield. "Since you're wearing practice armor and carrying your practice weapons, perhaps you will spar with us, Teyrn Loghain?"

"I was just heading that way myself, lucky for you. So yes, I will."

Lys grinned. "Good. We've been practicing against sword and shield fighters lately."

"So you expect me to fight both of you?"

"Not together! Only one of us. Perhaps you could also watch us spar and critique us. You've always given me good advice."

"That's a long workout."

"It's what we're used to several times a week."

"I'm impressed. I didn't realize you'd gotten so serious about training."

"After Antiva City? I," she glanced at Kai, "we, got very serious."

The three entered the armory where Loghain introduced Lys and Kai to the Arms Master. "They'll be using the Practice Yard when they get time away from their duties. As you'll soon see, they're both good fighters."

The Arms Master saluted the two young women. "Feel free to use the practice weapons and the women's bath house."

"Thank you, Arms Master. We appreciate that." Lys replied.

Loghain led the way to the yard, where only one guard challenged a practice dummy. "Are you ready, ladies? Perhaps I'll watch you first."

"No, that will let you see all our moves." Lys objected. "I'll go first with you."

"I was afraid that wouldn't work." Loghain chuckled. He had missed Lys. As a Teyrn's daughter she could spar with him verbally and with weapons. With Lys, there were no political overtones to their conversations as there were lately with Anora and Cailan. Lys hated Orlesians as much as he did. Having her at the Palace would brighten his days.

Loghain hefted his shield and unsheathed his sword. Lys unsheathed her blades.

"You use a sword now?" Loghain raised an eyebrow in surprise.

"I do. I like the better reach against a sword and shield. I still have the long dagger in my off hand to stab. Kai still uses her daggers, but I prefer this."

"Well, let's see how you perform."

He feinted to his right with his sword, then moved to bash her with his shield. Lys stepped back and to her right, blocking the shield with her left arm. Since she had stepped away from him, the shield bash had less power. Lys moved further to her right and forward at the same time, slicing at Loghain behind his shield before he could retract it. She scored a hit on his upper arm.

"Nicely done." He complimented, as he turned to face her and block any further moves. He noticed she handled the heavy sword with ease. Nor was she distracted by his comment. Before he had fully faced her she slid to her left, feinted a sword stroke and stepped forward again to thrust her dagger at his right wrist. Another hit scored.

In a real battle he would now be bleeding from two cuts. As the battle proceeded he would lose blood, tire more quickly and handle sword and shield less nimbly due to the wounds. Her tactics were impeccable. Someone had been teaching her well. He would have to take this more seriously.

Lys saw the surprise when she touched his wrist. Good, he realizes I'm not the little girl he sparred with for fun. When I beat him, I want him to have given his best.

Loghain stepped back. Lys did not follow. Let him regroup. I'll let him make the next move. The match soon slipped into the familiar rhythm. Attack, block, parry, step away, block, attack, sidestep, attack …step to the left, roll to the right, retreat, push forward. Lys was quicker and more agile. She squatted and rolled, sometimes forward sometimes to the side, then bounced up again before Loghain could fully turn towards her. She often scored a touch on his calf, ankle or thigh with these moves. Or a thrust under his shield when she feinted, then did not roll. The problem was that her attacks only wore him down, she couldn't deliver a critical blow.

Until she did. She squatted, rolled forward, as she had before, but this time extended a leg and tripped him. He went down hard. Before he could recover she had her dagger at his throat, her knee on his shield and her sword pinning his sword arm down. He could push against her with his shield, although the angel would be awkward, but not before she slit his throat or made his sword arm useless.

"Yield."

Lys stood and held out a hand after he yielded. Loghain took it. "Good match. You've improved. I like the tactics."

"Thank you. The Wrath has good trainers. In truth, I don't win very often, but sometimes that leg sweep works. Probably won't work on you again. Good thing, in battle, you only fight your opponent once."

Loghain chuckled. "Very true. Why don't you and Kai fight now. I'll spar with Kai next time. I'm an old man. I tire easily."

Lys frowned. "You're not old, but you do look tired. Have you been out drinking with Cailan and Teagan?"

"No. I'm not one of Cailan's drinking companions. I just haven't been sleeping well."

Lys frown relaxed. "Why?"

"Nothing obvious, just age I suppose. Too little to worry about."

"Too little? That should be a good thing. No Orlesian plots?"

"There are always Orlesian plots. And darkspawn in the south or so Warden Duncan says. Just no imminent threats."

Lys nodded. "Fergus said the darkspawn seem contained in the Wilds, if not defeated."

"So I understand. The Wardens maintain a presence at Ostagar. Warden Duncan keeps the king and I informed." Loghain pursed his lips and refrained from rolling his eyes. "He suddenly feels a need to recruit. He convinced Cailan to encourage the Bannorn and nobles to hold tourneys. The winner gets to join the Wardens." Loghain shook his head. "As if that's a prize, but it's Fereldans, not Orlesians joining so I suppose that's an improvement."

"Papa may hold one in Highever. He hasn't decided. Joining the Wardens…it's not a prize." To change the subject, she looked at Kai. "Ready?"

Kai nodded, as Loghain took a seat on a bench to watch.

o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o

Kai and Lys moved beautifully together. It looked more like a dance than a sparring match. One of them proceeded through a series of offensive forms and the other had to react and defend. The attacker varied the sequence so the defender could not predict the next move. They alternated between offensive and defensive roles. It provided excellent practice. The rhythm calmed Loghain as he watched.

Loghain let his mind drift to his ride home from Ostagar with Cailan all those months ago. He had gone over their conversation a thousand times, trying to see how he might repair his relationship with the King. It had improved since Elin's birth, but the strain remained. Differences surfaced regularly over Cailan's fascination with the Wardens, the possible Blight and Orlais' influence over them. He remained unhappy with Cailan's Orlesian trade alliances and planned trip to Val Royeaux. Sometimes his anger at Cailan threatened to overwhelm him. When that happened, he tried to get away. He had visited Gwaren once already this year. It seemed to settle his mind.

While he welcomed Cailan's overtures to Teyrn Cousland, he was not happy with Cailan's insistence Bryce join him on the Orlesian venture. He rubbed his temples. It seemed the headache always lurked ready to bloom. Did Cailan have to insist or did Bryce volunteer? Howe says Bryce did not resist Cailan's request. That he seemed enthusiastic. Does he want to return to Court so much he would encourage Cailan's enchantment with Orlais? Fergus certainly does not, but perhaps he and Bryce differ on this.

Loghain started as Lys said his name.

"You were a million miles away, Teyrn Loghain."

"I was. Sorry. I've had something on my mind and I'm afraid I mulled it over as I watched you. What I saw was beautiful though."

"Beautiful?" Kai asked.

"Yes, the smoothness and rhythm of your motions and the quick reactions. Excellent practice method. You had quite the audience." He nodded towards the Armory door and the fence separating the practice yard from the archery butts.

The young women had not noticed the audience of guards. The group applauded when they realized Lys had seen them.

She and Kai bowed and saluted the guards and Maric's Shield troopers, then turned to Teyrn Loghain. "Thank you, Teyrn Loghain, for the match. Are you coming back to the Palace? I think we've had enough for one day."

That's gracefully done. "Need a guide back to your rooms?"

Lys wrinkled her nose and grinned. "Probably wouldn't hurt. Is the garden the quickest route?"

"It is, actually. Otherwise you tromp through the public rooms. Not popular with the Seneschal or Anora."

"Not a good idea on my first day here, then. Well lead on, Your Grace, and we will follow."

o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o

Pippa appeared at Lys' door just after sunrise. To her surprise, Lys answered, already dressed.

"Come in, Pippa. Kai just finished my hair." Lys twirled, showing off her gown.

She wore a mossy green linen tunic under a Cousland blue linen gown. The gown's three quarter sleeves trailed almost to the floor fitting loosely over the fitted sleeves of the green tunic. Exquisitely embroidered green laurel branches marked the edge of the trailing sleeves. Green, fuchsia and gold silk bands intertwined with each other hung around her hips, their ends falling to the floor over the slightly flared skirt.

Kai had loosely braided the sides of Lys' hair, starting at her temple and weaving in pieces until the two braids met just above her nape. Tendrils framed her face. The two braids ended leaving the rest of her hair to fall free down her back in soft waves.

"You look amazing. Quite appropriate. Kai has not lost her touch with your hair."

Kai curtsied in thanks and greeting.

"Good. I didn't want to overdress. I thought silk might be too much on my first day."

"For a normal day, yes, silk would be too…formal. It's not so warm here, in summer, that we have gotten used to wearing silk every day, as you must in Cumberland or farther north." Pippa looked around Lys' room. "You've settled in very quickly. I'm surprised. I expected you to be more…um disruptive."

"Disruptive! Was I disruptive in Firstfall?"

"Your mother was here."

"I have learned diplomacy and discretion, Lady Philippa. Cousin Sam does not tolerate…disruptors. As for settling in, I'm used to traveling I suppose. I'm organized and Kai is very efficient." Thank the Maker Loghain rescued us the other day. I suspect Pippa would consider being detained by the guard disruptive.

Kai who had retreated to the bedroom could be heard to laugh.

She's probably thinking the same thing. Lys stifled a giggle.

"Myfa will be here shortly, Kai," Pippa raised her voice slightly. "She will introduce you to the other servants and take you on a tour. Any questions, please ask her."

Kai poked her head around the doorframe. "Thank you, Lady Philippa. I can't wait to see her."

Pippa smiled. "Thank you for making sure Lys was ready."

Kai smirked, but conceded, "Lys got me up, truth be told. You might be surprised at how disciplined she's become. Sieur Samuel insists on punctuality."

Pippa's raised eyebrows conveyed her surprise, but all she said was, "Let's go, Lys. Delilah joined Her Majesty when she awakened at dawn to feed Princess Elin. She'll be finished soon and ready for her own breakfast. We'll eat with her as usual. "

o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o

Anora's apartments, at the end of the hallway, spanned the width of the palace's north wing. The walk from Lys' rooms passed two other apartments on the left, probably similar to hers. She had not seen them, but she knew they belonged to Pippa and Delilah.

"With King Cailan gone and most of the nobles home for the summer, our days have been very quiet," Pippa told Lys as they linked arms and walked together down the hallway.

"It will give you time to adjust to our routine. The summer is lovely so far. We spend a lot of time in the garden. Queen Anora and Princess Elin enjoy the time outdoors in the afternoon."

"How do you spend each day? How do you and Delilah share the duties?"

Pippa smiled. "I wrote down a list of our duties. She handed Lys a small leather bound book. "I thought you might like a common book to record your impressions and thoughts. You can find the description of our duties on the first page."

Lys grinned. Pippa had always been the more organized of the two when it came to making lists and recording what they learned. Lys made notes on wax tablets with a stylus. Once she had memorized what she would wipe the tablet clean. Pippa had a shelf of small parchment books at home in Higheverport – notebooks or diaries Arethians would call them. Pippa had them in Areth too. Pippa liked the tactile feel of quill and paper. In Thedas Lys preferred wax. In Areth she dictated to tablet or phone.

"Trying to convert me to ink and parchment?"

Pippa smirked. "Her Majesty uses parchment to record her thoughts and impressions. I thought it might be prudent if you at least appeared to do the same."

"Ah, well thank you. You're probably right, in that case. I see I shall need all my diplomatic skills to survive here." She pulled a small wax tablet and stylus from her pocket. "I did think to bring this, so I shall be doubly prepared."

Pippa grew more serious. "You will need them Lys. Without them the undercurrents here will drown you."

The two young women entered the anteroom of the Queen's apartment.

"You wait here. I'll see if Queen Anora is ready to receive you." Noticing Lys raised eyebrows, Pippa added, "Nothing formal. She simply wants to welcome you. You and I can speak more later today."

Lys sat in one of two wooden chairs, which flanked a narrow table. Sconces on the wall above provided light to the windowless room. She read Pippa's neat, but cramped writing.

1. Each Lady is assigned duties daily. The senior Lady (Pippa) assigns the duties and ensures they are carried out.
2. Maintain perfect confidence in all matters. No conversation or observation should leave Her Majesty's chambers.
3.
Attend the Queen when she rises to feed Princess Elin; Nurse Elspeth and the Queen will perform most tasks, but the assigned Lady must be present to help
4.
Breakfast with the Queen
5.
Review the Queen's appointments with her and her ladies; apportion duties for the day
6.
Supervise the selection of the Queen's clothing – depends on what she will do that day
7.
Review correspondence with the Queen; write responses
8.
Attend the Queen at Council, Court or other meetings, unless dismissed by Her Majesty.
9.
Attend the Queen on outings – gardens, riding, visits to nobility, her father or House Haris unless dismissed by Her Majesty
10.
Attend the Queen at formal events – galas, tourneys, salons, so forth
11.
Make purchases for the Queen from the Royal purveyors – these would be more important purchases such as jewelry, clothing, gifts. Queen Anora examines and approves all purchases of course. If she dislikes an item, it is returned or exchanged.
12.
Supervise arrangement of clothing design, fittings and purchases (you should shine here, Lys)
13.
Carry messages for the Queen – to other nobles, her father, merchants, others.
14.
Provide amusement and companionship– singing, playing instruments, reading, handwork, dancing. (we can sing again – did you bring the vihuela?)
15.
Other duties as assigned.

Lys laughed quietly to herself. The Fifteen Rules of Waiting. Pippa was thorough and concise and the head Lady. Lys felt relieved as random thoughts and reactions ran through her mind. I know Pippa and what to expect from her and she knows me. Delilah will be a mystery, but Pippa seems to like her. I can perform all those duties. I wonder if I'll be bored. I'm so used to meeting a variety of people and traveling. The politics might be interesting, when I attend Council or Court. Even so, I'll have to make sure I have spinning or knitting and a book close to hand. I have my lute and my vihuela for entertainment. Lys giggled. I wonder if Anora will find the bawdy songs I've learned during my travels amusing? She sighed. I'd best wait a while before I tempt fate with them. She looked up as Pippa returned to the anteroom.

"Her Majesty awaits, Lady Melysande."

9:29 Dragon Bloomingtide === Calenhad's Ghost on the Waking Sea sailing west

King Cailan left on what had become his annual visit to Orlais immediately after Summerday in 9:29 Dragon. Next year Empress Celene must visit us in Denerim. He had begun to feel like a supplicant, always visiting her in Val Royeaux. Next year it would be Orlesians in Denerim or there would be no visit. I'll send Loghain off to Gwaren for the duration. If things go well with Teyrn Cousland, he'll be there to help host the Empress and her entourage.

This year Cailan, Eamon and Teagan rode to Highever with the royal retinue. The Ferelden fleet's year old flagship, Calenhad's Ghost, had been sent ahead to sail around the Amaranthine peninsula and the islands of Brandels Reach and Alamar. It would be waiting when the king arrived in Higheverport. The ten-day ride to Castle Cousland took two weeks once King Cailan decided to visit Vigil's Keep and Amaranthine on the way. The visit allowed him to honor Arl Howe with a visit and see some of his subjects.

Arl Howe traveled with the King's company as far as his seat at Vigil's Keep. He hosted the King there and in Amaranthine. While Howe managed to appear pleasant during the Royal visit, King Cailan's new attitude toward Teyrn Cousland pleased him not at all. Nor did he accept the king's suggestion that Delilah might find a marriage in Orlais. While his reply had not pleased Cailan, the King had shrugged and dropped the subject.

In Highever, Arl Broughten and Teyrn Cousland planned to join King Cailan aboard his flagship. After an overnight stay at Castle Cousland, the five nobles sailed from Higheverport under clear summer skies.

Designed as a ship that would accommodate both a captain and a king, the builders of Calenhad's Ghost built the tall stern castle with two sleeping quarters. Both opened into a large common area. Both cabins had wide shuttered stern windows. Smaller cabins accommodated additional passengers. The Teyrn, the Arls and Bann Teagan occupied these. Arl Eamon, in spite of his status as Chancellor, found himself relegated to a smaller cabin. Teyrn Cousland, as the senior noble, occupied the larger one Chancellor Guerrin had occupied on last year's maiden voyage. Eamon thought his office trumped the Teyrn's rank, but Cailan had disagreed.

As both Queen Anora and Teyrn Loghain had pointed out, Ferelden could hardly afford a ship as fine as Calenhad's Ghost. Cailan had retorted that the outdated Mabari Rampant was worn out, after its long voyage with Loghain. If Ferelden's coffers lacked funds, he had added, Loghain's travels had helped create the problem. Ferelden needed to impress its allies and adversaries alike. Fergus offered to help him acquire it from Antiva. Anora had conceded the cost, while substantial, was less than she expected. Loghain, grudgingly acknowledging his contribution to Ferelden's diminished funds, grumbled and then kept quiet.

Built in Antiva City's Arsenale shipyard, the Calenhad represented the latest in naval architecture. Teyrn Cousland helped the king gain Antiva's agreement to build the Calenhad in the Arsenale. This cooperation marked the start of the thaw between Teyrn Cousland and Cailan. Bryce and Fergus called in many favors with their Antivan friends and allies to get the ship built quickly and inexpensively The Couslands and, Oriana's family, the Falanni, had even managed to persuade the Antivan authorities to allow Fereldan shipbuilders to participate. The result had impressed the Orlesians when the ship docked in the Val Royeaux the year before. King Cailan appreciated the efforts of Fergus and his father. After a stop in Higheverport on his return from Orlais in 9:28, relations between the King and Teyrn continued to improve.

To Eamon's dismay, once at sea, Cailan closeted himself with Teyrn Cousland each morning. Eamon had encouraged King Cailan to bring Teyrn Cousland along. He hoped to quash the growing influence of the Teyrn and Fergus. He did not want Bryce Cousland back in Denerim. Arl Howe agreed. Both wanted the Landsmeet to believe Bryce conspired with Orlais and influenced Cailan to give away too much to their old enemy.

Eamon had not anticipated Cailan seeking the Teyrn's company, while excluding him. Eamon thought of Cailan as his apprentice, meant to do his bidding, ignoring the fact that Cailan was his king. Bryce Cousland could be charming and persuasive. On the one hand, he feared he might lose his control over the trip's purpose. On the other, perhaps Cousland's actions would condemn him. He hated not controlling the plans. Even more, he hated not knowing what Cailan discussed with the Teyrn.

Cailan had numerous proposals for the Teyrn Cousland. He had tired of Eamon's successful attempts to direct discussions with the Orlesians. Sometimes he had felt like a mabari pup led around by its human. He feared the Orlesians saw him that way. This year he planned to take the initiative, make proposals and draw up several agreements with, he hoped, Teyrn Cousland's assistance. Eamon could follow his lead or remain aboard the Calenhad and sulk. Bryce Cousland had been his father's primary diplomat. Cailan hoped to restore him to that post. He just had to convince the Teyrn to deal with Orlais. He hoped it would not be as difficult as convincing Loghain and Anora.

King Cailan had big plans. He hoped they would divert Her Radiance, Empress Celene of Orlais, from persistently suggesting he set Anora aside and marry her. Until Princess Elin's birth, the reason proposed was Anora's barrenness. With that excuse gone, he wanted to get his own proposals on the table. Teyrn Bryce had seemed unsurprised by the Empress' actions when Cailan described them, but those of the Guerrins appeared to unsettle him.

"I want to change the discussion, Teyrn Bryce. I will not set Anora aside. Nor will I agree to an Orlesian betrothal for my daughter that Eamon suggests."

The two men faced each other across the round table in Cailan's quarters.

"That seems wise, Your Majesty." Bryce did not know the king well. Both Fergus and Arl Philip had briefed him on Cailan's seeming maturity now that he had an heir, but warned the teyrn to tread carefully around both the king and the Guerrins. While Bryce welcomed the chance to reclaim influence, he wished he had been able to speak with the queen and Teyrn Loghain as well. He replied carefully and thoughtfully. "Unlike your marriage to Queen Anora, early betrothals do not always benefit the families involved years later when the wedding takes place. Even our mages cannot tell the future."

"Exactly, My Lord Cousland. I said the same to the Empress. Who, in Orlais, would have considered betrothing her to me when we were babes?"

Bryce smiled. "Was she convinced?"

"Sadly, no, but it did cause her to pause and think. She offered to foster Elin."

"That's a different tack. How did you reply?"

Cailan tilted his head. "Interesting. Most people immediately tell me they hope I told her no."

"It's a diplomatic response, Your Majesty. I want to understand your opinion, not convince you of mine." Bryce grinned. "At least not yet."

Cailan tilted his head. "That's a fresh approach. I like it. I did not tell her no. I told her it was too early to make decisions of that sort."

"A diplomatic response as well Your Majesty. And one that makes no promises and elicits no retaliation."

I've been a fool. Cailan almost smiled. He treats me like a man grown, not a stupid boy.

"What are your plans, Your Majesty. And how do they include me? I must admit some confusion as to my role when you have Arl Guerrin, your Chancellor, and Arl Philip, your Trade Ambassador, in our party."

Cailan rose and went to look out the window at the wake receding behind the ship. He stood with his hands clasped behind his back. "Honestly, I find Arl Guerrin less effective each year. I think Eamon honestly believes he works in Ferelden's best interests, but I begin to doubt that he does. He treats me like a child. Perhaps I deserved that four years ago. I don't appreciate now. We argue frequently over policy. Yet when I consult Anora, she often agrees with me." Cailan turned, looked at the Teyrn and grinned. "You see I do make sure my thoughts make sense. Anora and Fergus provide excellent sounding boards."

"I'm biased, I'm afraid, Your Majesty. I know Fergus has good sense. I don't know the queen that well, but Lys and Eleanor do." Bryce frowned. "What of Loghain?"

Cailan shook his head. "Loghain becomes more testy and suspicious each day. We can't hold a conversation without him ranting about Orlesian threats. Have you seen him recently?"

"No, I did not attend the Kendalls-Bryland nuptials. Loghain has not ventured north in some time."

"He retreats to Gwaren more often than he used to. He returns refreshed, but Denerim seems to disagree with him. He sleeps badly, looks worse and his temperament…he's barely spoken to me this past month he's so angry about this trip. I almost expect him to call me a traitor. He's called Eamon one in private conversation with Anora and me."

"That is troubling." Bryce frowned. He remembered Loghain doing what was necessary during the Rebellion. He had been ruthless in his support of Maric and Ferelden. And selfless as well. Would Loghain call Maric's son a traitor for following Maric's own policies?

"He always objected to your father's efforts to make peace with Orlais. I did as well, at times, but peace is what is needed. The treaty and new start with Empress Celene in 9:20 marked an improvement in both economies. King Maric made the right choices. Trade brings peace. At least I believe it does. Your policies there will prove wise as well." He leaned back in his chair and rubbed his chin. "I'll speak to him when we return. With your leave."

"I hoped you would offer. I know no one else who might get his attention. He even argues with Anora."

"As you will learn with Princess Elin, Your Majesty, Anora is his daughter. She will always be his daughter. We don't like our daughters to grow up. We often fail to accept it when they do."

"You speak from experience? Lys seems a fine young woman."

"I've had more lectures than I care to admit from my wife regarding my daughter." Bryce smiled, his eyes unfocused. "Luckily, Lys and I get on well now. I let her grow up and she makes me proud. I'm fortunate in my family, Your Majesty."

"I can't disagree with you, Teyrn Bryce." He stopped, frowning. "I don't apologize easily. Or admit error. I made one in keeping you and your family from Court. I hope to change that. You have all served me, Anora and Ferelden well in spite of my attitudes."

"I miss contributing, Your Majesty. Advising your father proved one of my most rewarding tasks. Not materially, for I have wealth. I mean contributing to Ferelden's safety and strength. I'd like to do that again. Now, tell me the specifics of these plans of yours."

Cailan sat down again, this time in a chair next to the Teyrn. He leaned forward pointing at the map on the table. "As you probably know, the Orlesians regret the loss of the Blasted Hills mines. Even more now that the mines have become so productive and profitable. They believe you and your Highever metallurgists and miners played a part in that."

"Only in part," Bryce conceded. "House Haris had expertise before I offered ours."

"House Haris will not help Orlais with mining expertise."

"That does not surprise me." Bryce rubbed his chin. "Although House Haris trades with Orlais, they are, after all, a Nevarran merchant house. Why would they work against Nevarran interests or their own? If Orlais finds ore, House Haris will compete fairly, but they have no reason to help Orlais discover it or bring it to market."

"Why indeed. Why would you? Cousland family ties to Nevarra run deep, do they not?"

"Quite deep, Your Majesty."

"My proposal involves helping Orlais find their own sources of ore and gems. While House Haris will not sell services to Orlais, I'm hoping Highever will. Do you know the likelihood that ore deposits or precious metal and gem deposits might be found in the Orlesian Frostbacks or farther west?"

"I don't. I believe my experts might. If not, we could assist the Orlesians in prospecting, if they do not have the skills."

"They claim they do not."

"Their poor results in the Blasted Hills before Nevarra acquired the territory supports that view." Bryce snorted, shaking his head. "Chevaliers like their fine armor, but have no interest in how the ore is acquired or smelted."

"Would you agree to provide experts? At a fee of course?"

"I would if the agreement benefitted us both. It might take the pressure off the Nevarran mines. We have expertise in several areas. Water must be drained, weighty ore must be sorted and transported, the ore must be separated from the surrounding material and not all ore is available from above ground. Shafts must be driven to get to the deeper deposits. We can help with smelting, furnaces, water or animal driven mills and transport."

Cailan rubbed his hands together. "Good. Arl Philip and I discussed this at some length last year. It's a much better alternative. Empress Celene requested that I convince you to help Orlais regain the Blasted Hills Mines through treachery. Eamon supported that request."

Raising his eyebrows, Bryce sat upright. "Much better. I could not agree to oppose House Haris or Nevarra, Your Majesty. " He rubbed his chin again. "May I speak frankly."

"Please do."

"We should cultivate Nevarra as an ally, not antagonize them. Not because Highever has trade interests there, but because they form a balance to Orlesian power. Orlais will never be our ally. They can be a friendly adversary, but never an ally." He smiled ruefully. "Your father understood that. Loghain did not. He saw Orlais as always an enemy. From what you say, Eamon also fails to grasp that point."

Teyrn Bryce leaned back in his chair, feeling more comfortable in the King's company.

"I like your alternative plan. It focuses Orlais' attention away from the Blasted Hills and Nevarra, but provides them with alternative sources of ore and gems. It's a good plan. We need to persuade the Empress and her advisors to agree. And perhaps Eamon as well?" Bryce frowned, silent for a moment, and then leaned forward folding his hands on the table. "Perhaps we could stop in Cumberland on the way home. Engage in some informal discussions under the guise of visiting House Haris. Invite the Nevarrans to expand their embassy in Denerim."

"I like that idea." Cailan nodded. "To persuade the Empress we must offer help, as we've discussed, and we must let more merchants into Ferelden. This year I approved a trading compound for Redcliffe. Orlesian merchants can enter from Jader, travel along the Imperial Highway or sail down Lake Calenhad and trade in the interior more easily. It's the last trading compound I will approve. Orlais has a foothold in Highever, Amaranthine and Denerim. Redcliffe will be the last, however, unlike the other compounds, I will allow merchants based in Redcliffe to travel throughout the interior."

"I understand Eamon has wanted that concession for years, but, Your Majesty-"

"-it allows Orlais to plant spies throughout Ferelden. I know. Believe me Loghain has made the point endlessly. Anora supports him in this." He shrugged. "But, what prevents them from sending in spies today? Our borders are not that secure. We could stop a patrol of chevaliers, but not individuals. Those two chevaliers at Ostagar proved that!"

"Language prevents them from doing it easily."

"I'm sorry?"

"If the Orlesians want spies to wander Ferelden today, the spies will need to speak the Common Tongue or Fereldan dialects without accents. Orlesians tend to arrogance. They do not learn other languages, which works to our benefit. Anyone with an Orlesian accent in a Bannorn village will be suspect. That limits the number of spies who can operate successfully.

"That will change with merchants. People tolerate an accent in a foreign merchant. They will be less suspicious. Allowing traveling merchants does allow us to know who is spying, but it also allows Orlais to have more eyes on our land. And to conspire with the Orlesian sympathizers that we know exist."

Cailan frowned. "Your arguments make sense. Perhaps I need to rethink this. As for language, what about the Chantry? Or the Wardens? They wander about and bring in foreign wardens, priests, sisters and brothers."

Bryce smiled. The boy was thinking. Perhaps he could grow into a king in his own right.

"They would not be suspected either. Well, perhaps the wardens would, but certainly not the Chantry. Maker, I sound like Loghain. Let's talk about it again tomorrow." He stood. "And further discuss this visit to Cumberland. I've never been. The Grand Tourney Grounds. The Necropolis. The College of Magi and it's golden dome." He grinned, looking like the boy Bryce remembered. "Glorious."

Cailan and Bryce both stood and stretched. Cailan laughed. "I've kept you here too long. We should go on deck and enjoy the fine weather before our meal." He became serious. "Our conversation, Teyrn Cousland, is confidential. I will have Eamon brief us on his plans before we arrive. His plans will include the trading compound in Redcliffe and more attempts to marry me or Elin off to some Orlesian. Once we hear him, I will tell him how we will proceed. We will follow my plans this year. If Eamon disagrees…well, Chancellors serve at their King's pleasure."

"As you wish, Your Majesty." Could that be a hint he plans to make me Chancellor?

"One other request. If you see Eamon try to corner me, please come to my rescue."

Bryce had to stifle a smile. "I'll try, Your Majesty. Diversions are my specialty."

Cailan grinned.

o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o

The King and the Teyrn continued to meet. Several mornings later, as the ship sailed past the islands of the Waking Sea bannorn, King Cailan broached the most sensitive topic, one that would affect both the Couslands and the Broughtens.

"Has Arl Philip mentioned the young Lord who visited them last autumn? He joined the Broughtens in Higheverport for Funalis, I think. Lady Philippa was home at the time."

"You mean Lord Guy of Montafilan? Yes, we met him. Pippa seemed quite taken with him. It surprised us all." Bryce's eyes narrowed. "You're not suggesting-"

"-I am Teyrn Cousland. A marriage alliance. Pippa seems to like the man. He's the heir to his father's estate near Verchiel. I won't marry in Orlais, but I think some of our young nobles must marry Orlesian lords and ladies."

Bryce sighed. The king had a point. "Has an offer been made?"

"It will be when we arrive. I don't think Arl Philip will be surprised, but he may be reluctant. I hoped you would encourage him and his daughter."

"If Philippa does not objet, I'll let Philip know I…support the idea."

"That's lukewarm."

Bryce smiled ruefully. "I'll try to be more effusive."

"Arl Howe turned down a match for his daughter. Flat refused. Unless I order it and make an enemy of him, Delilah won't marry in Orlais. There is, however, another match that's been discussed." Cailan waited as realization dawned on Bryce.

"She will have to agree," he replied tersely. "I promised her she would not be bartered off without her consent."

"Yes, so Anora told me. I need you to convince her."

"Maker, why? Is that why Anora made her a Lady-in-Waiting?"

"No. No, Anora opposes Orlesian matches for her Ladies. She thinks we should first bring Orlesian brides to Ferelden. Then their offspring, with Orlesian relations, will go willingly into Orlesian marriages."

"Your lady queen makes a good point."

"It takes too long. We must do both. And the first Fereldan brides must be from significant families."

"My wife and daughter would have suggested Habren," Bryce almost muttered.

Cailan laughed. "So would Anora, but that betrothal was long standing."

Bryce sighed. "I will speak with her. I will make no promises on her behalf."

Cailan frowned. "Perhaps if she met the man. Lord Denis of Rievaulx will inherit a large estate near Lydes. His father is cousin to the Empress. I've met him. He's handsome, wealthy, talented, intelligent, only twenty-five…a good match for Lys. Lydes is not far from Pippa in Verchiel or from the border with Ferelden."

"Perhaps meeting him first would make sense. She can decide better if she knows the man." Bryce sighed anticipating the conversation he must have with Eleanor. "I'll agree to their meeting. Perhaps at Castle Cousland in the autumn. He could stay for Satinalia." Bryce chuckled. "I'll leave it to you to convince Queen Anora to release Lys to return home for Satinalia this year."

Cailan frowned, then grinned. "I'll make it easy. We'll all come to Highever. Anora will love spending time with Teyrna Eleanor. We'll both enjoy escaping Denerim. It's perfect."

Bryce put both hands to the sides of his temple and groaned. "That is a ploy worthy of your father."

Cailan's grin widened. "Well, Loghain will come along too. He can put a damper on any festive occasion. Even so, it will be fabulous. You, Loghain, me and Fergus. Almost like old Summerdays, but with better hunting. Pippa, Teyrna Eleanor, Lys, Oriana and Anora. Marvelous. I'll speak to Anora as soon as we return.

"When we arrive in Val Royeaux you can meet Lord Denis and extend the invitation yourself."


A/N: Thank you for reading. I plan to return to weekly posting now that I've worked out the intrigue and character development necessary to get to 9:30 Dragon. I'm happy to end the unplanned, but necessary Holiday Hiatus. I hope you all had wonderful Holidays. All the best to you for the New Year.

I hope you continue to read and enjoy. Please review, favorite, subscribe and/or follow. I welcome comments, encouragement, suggestions and critiques.

Huge thanks to my wonderful beta Kira Tamarion for her sharp eyes. Her astute comments improve every post. Any errors are all mine.

Thanks to all who Favorited, offered Kudos, Subscribed and/or Followed. Special thanks to those who Reviewed: Arsinoe de Blassenville,clafount,Mike3207,caraine,nymra, nonny guest, EasternViolet and SnowHelm. I appreciate the continuing thoughtful feedback. Knowing you enjoy the story inspires me.