Author's Note: I normally don't, but I'm going to suggest listening to Two Steps From Hell "Undying Love", "Magic of Love", "Fill My Heart" and "Everlasting".
"I'm so very proud of you, my darling girl", said her dead mother.
The voice came from behind her, and needing the moment to brace herself, she looked ahead. Marlana stared out the massive window before her, at the fantastical landscape spread out before where she stood and knew she was dreaming. She'd never seen a flat top mountain with a hollow center with waterfalls splashing down so very prettily into a large, crystalline lake. Nor had she ever seen amethystine and indigo foliage mixed with green the color of the darkest emerald and the pale jade. Birds with long, flowing plumage all the colors of the rainbow and smaller ones, like little jewels, flew about together under the diaphanous golden light, singing prettily simply for the joy of singing.
A pleasantly warm breeze blew through the window, tugging at her long, unbound hair and the iridescent, flowing robe that was wrapped around her, cinched at her waist with a tasseled cord of twined silver and gold.
At least this latest nightmare wasn't in her ancestral home.
*Notanightmare*, said the crimson dragon that was Sacrifice as he flew overhead in the distance.
Reassured, even if the form her sword had chosen wasn't all that reassuring, she slowly turned to face her dead mother. Eleanor smiled warmly at her, though there was some sorrow in those bright green eyes. She hesitated, then whispered, "Mother?"
*Yes, itisher. Notademon*, assured the azure griffin that was Vigilance as he joined his brother's flight in the sky.
Heart overflowing with conflicting emotions, wondering if it was finally going to break this time, she hesitantly stepped towards her mother's spirit. Then Lana was wrapped up in her mother's comforting embrace and began to weep into her shoulder in a way she hadn't done since she was very young. Eleanor gently lead her over to a cushioned bench to sit. As she settled in against her mother, Lana said in a muffled voice, "Oh mama, I'm so very sorry."
"Sorry? Whatever for, Lana?" Eleanor lightly ran her over her daughter's shining hair soothingly, which only made the tears turn into a flood. Her mother's loving confusion hurt even worse than the recriminations she'd always expected. Shouldn't she be angry at Lana's failure to save the family during Howe's attack?
"Marlana? Why do you feel the need to apologize?" She asked as she lifted her daughter's face up to look at her, worry now overshadowing confusion when she didn't get an answer.
Lana dropped her eyes and whispered, "For not being fast enough to save you and father. For not coming to Oriana's and Oren's aid..."
"Oh for... You stop that right now, Marlana Phaedra Cousland." Loving worry instantly changed to maternal annoyance. "Your father was dying and I wasn't about to leave him. Besides, I was in no shape to go on the run with you and Duncan." She sighed sadly, pulled out a cloth from the cuff of her dress and began to dry her daughter's tears, "Even if you were able to get out of your room right away, there wouldn't have been enough time for you to save our grandson and his mother."
The young woman started to shake her head, but her mother kept a firm grip on her chin, another voice chimed in before either spoke. Bryce Cousland commented, "Ah pup, why do you still blame yourself for things that aren't your fault?"
Hearing the lightly chiding and loving tone of her father's voice caused Lana to close her eyes and try not to shake. Bad enough to deal with her mother's spirit, but now her father? What she thought were now scarred over wounds proved to be barely healed injuries. Ones that were being violently torn open causing blood to pour out.
Her father sighed as he sat down on the other side of her and put his hand on her shoulder, "My brave, fierce girl, you always did take your sense of duty to heart too much. That may not have been me at the Temple that is Andraste's final resting place, but the sentiment is true. There's nothing that needs forgiving, my dear girl. No man could be any prouder to call you his daughter, nor love you as much as I do."
Eleanor soothed her daughter's hair again as the silent weeping restarted, "It's true for me as well, my dear. You may not have been what I hoped for, or expected, in a daughter, but I'm so glad you are the amazing woman you've grown into. I too love you so very much."
Hoarsely and still unable to face them, "I love you both so very much. The things I did during the Blight, what I became..."
Her mother's voice went somewhat tart, "What you became is the brightest, bravest and most beautiful woman I've ever known. Like your father said, you need to stop tormenting yourself with what isn't your fault."
With a sniffle, Lana sat up a little straighter and accepted another cloth to repair the damages of her crying, then she hesitantly looked up at her father for the the first time.
Bryce, like Eleanor, appeared younger than when she'd like seen him bleeding out laying on the pantry floor. His dark grey eyes were as she remembered though, full of the wisdom and leadership she'd always valued from her father, but that too was tempered by sorrow. He smiled at her, the loving expression she'd grown up with. Her heart wanted to break even more. "My little girl, all grown up, soon to be married and Queen of Ferelden."
She sniffed, "You don't have to sound so surprised at me getting married. You sound even less surprised that I'm getting married to the King."
Her mother laughed, "After all those years you spent scaring off would be suitors? That my daughter fell in love with a man and is getting married to him? Why yes, that is a greater surprise than the fact he's the new King."
Bryce's warm laughter joined his wife's. Then he sobered, "That part is ironic given what I discouraged Cailan from going along with Eamon's mad scheme."
Lana grimaced, "Eamon thought I was biddable, which is why he suggested replacing Anora with me."
She wasn't surprised they would've known about that plan, or that they kept quiet about it. They generally did when it came to the various proposals sent to them and that one in particular. Not just because they didn't want to see Cailan set Anora to the side just on Eamon's suggestion, but because they knew Marlana would've run roughshod over Cailan.
Or killed him in the process of trying to make him grow a spine and brain.
This time it was her turn to laugh at her parents' flummoxed reaction. Bryce said very slowly, "You are many things, but biddable isn't one of them. I wonder where he got that idea from?"
Eleanor sighed, "It's probably my fault, I always that Lana was a very dutiful daughter. I suppose he thought that meant she'd do whatever she was told."
Trying not to squirm, Lana flushed a little remembering the times she was less than obedient, but it was in small things, usually her refusal to wear a dress. Her mother smiled at her fondly and patted her hand, "You've always known your own mind and had a strong will, there's nothing wrong with that, because we managed to get some good sense into you."
Hating herself for asking, but she had to know, "Did you...did you know about Alistair?"
"No, we didn't", Bryce answered, clearly upset, but not at her. "Had we known about him, we would've insisted on caring for the boy ourselves. Particularly when Eamon gave in to his wife's demand to send Alistair to the Chantry as a templar."
Lana muttered, "Damn harpy."
"Marlana!" Eleanor chided.
Now on firmer ground, Lana looked at her mother stubbornly, "After all the misery that woman has caused to the people she is supposed to care for? And the fact she hasn't been punished for it? Harpy is too kind of a word for her."
Both of the older Couslands winced, but neither could deny her anger. It was possible that Eamon had done something about his wife, but there'd been no public acknowledgement and she'd been out and about in public as if everything was perfectly normal. And still no hint of remorse over the deaths her actions had caused in her husband's arling.
But Lana was reassured that her sentiments about her parents taking in Alistair were true. Of course hearing Vigilance's whispered assurances of truth helped a great deal.
Though it was just a dream in the Fade, it felt good to be here with them for the brief moment that she was granted. It felt like those awful emotional wounds were suddenly beginning to properly heal. She sighed a little wistfully, "I wish you could meet him, he's one of the best people I've ever known."
Bryce smiled, "I've seen enough to know that he treasures you the way you should be by the man who is taking you as his wife. You both have my blessings for your marriage. I hope that is as long and as happy as the one I had the honor to share with your mother."
She'd grown up with the love her parents shared between them, and shared with Fergus and she. Seeing it now, for one last time, and that they'd include Alistair if they could, the way they had with Oriana when Fergus got married... A little more of that ache in her heart healed. Though a new one replaced it.
Eleanor smiled at her daughter as well, "And you have my blessings as well, though you should have known you'd always have them. After all, I'd always hoped to see at least one grandchild from you!"
That gave Lana pause considering what she'd learned from Wynne a few weeks before. Both parents patted her hand, then Bryce said, "We're limited in what we're allowed to say. We were given leave to speak with you this time for all that you have done, and likely will do in the future. I'm sorry to say this, my girl, there will be more dark days ahead of you, but always remain true. True to your young man, true to your friends, and most importantly of all: remain true to yourself. And you will find brighter days."
A lump settled in her throat, not at the prospect of more dark days ahead. After all wasn't this the Dragon Age? The Age named after a dragon going on a rampage, one that everyone said would always be marked by violent change? Besides, Ferelden needed to be rebuilt, there was still the matter of those strange talking darkspawn, and Maker only knew what other troubles were going to come up. Of course there would be dark days ahead.
But that there would be better days ahead, no matter how distant, was something worth striving for.
Swallowing back the lump, she humbly said, "Thank you. For everything."
"Well, I do have one last thing for you, my dear, before you have to go", Eleanor said.
Lana shook her head, she'd been given all she could expect from this last visit. Knowing her parents still loved her, were in fact proud of her, that was all she needed. Her mother smiled, took her daughter's hand and placed a small object in the palm before closing Lana's fingers over it, "There is a tradition I would like to see kept. I'm sure you had another wedding ring made since I couldn't give you mine before this, but I would still like you to have the ring that has been passed down through my family for your wedding."
Blinking back another spate of tears, Lana gave her mother a quick, fierce hug. It had been a tradition in her mother's family for the mother to pass the ancient ring down to her eldest daughter when that daughter was to be married, and the mother to get a new ring from her husband. When she had taken inventory of the contents of the hidden treasure room that Howe had, Lana had hoped her mother's wedding ring was in there. But it hadn't been, now for her mother's spirit to give it the eve of Lana's wedding...
Her mother smiled, a little misty eyed herself, "Wear it in good health and much joy, my dear Lana."
Another hug between mother and daughter. One final, tight hug between father and daughter. Before he let her go, he murmured, "I truly am so very proud of what you've done, Marlana. You've done so very much more than I ever expected."
Then Lana found herself walking towards the window she'd been looking out at before, this time with Vigilance crouched on the floor beside it, ready to bear her away.
"Marlana, would you wait a moment?" Another woman's voice called out to her.
Surprised to hear Oriana, she turned to her lost sister-by-marriage, who smiled warmly in return. "I know you may not be able to tell Fergus this right away, but I want him to know that I want him to find happiness and love again. That if he continues to mope over my death, I'll find a way to make him pay for it."
While she wouldn't say what her brother did was moping, Lana knew he needed the time to recover from the loss of his beloved wife and son. But she smiled a little and nodded, "When the time is right, I will."
"You've always been a woman of your word, Marlana, I know you'll find a way."
Fergus's lost wife took Marlana's hands in her own for a brief moment, "I want you to know that your parents are right. What happened to me and to Oren...it isn't your fault. You're only human."
Orianna gave her a fierce smile, "You did what you could at the time, and later on you made those bastards pay. And Howe doubly so. I hold no enmity for you, Marlana, and you are still my sister."
The two hugged briefly, then before she knew it, Lana found herself on Vigilance's back, borne away into the sky filled with that odd, diaphanous golden light. In her ears she could still hear her parents last call, "We will always love you and Fergus."
The pale grey light of pre-dawn was just trickling into the windows of the unfamiliar room when Marlana thrashed awake from her dreaming. Between the dream meeting with her parents and in strange bed held in a room she didn't recognize, and more importantly, noAlistair beside her, she wasn't doing well. Sacrifice did the mental equivalent of sitting on her while Vigilance wordlessly reassured her that everything was fine.
Heart racing from the scare, she lay there for a bit panting while trying to remember where exactly she was. Then her memory did return, she was in what was considered her room of the Cousland estate in Denerim. She visited Denerim so rarely before the Blight, Lana had forgotten she had her own room there. As for why she was there... It was decided it'd be best if she spent the night before her wedding in the closest thing to her family home away from the palace. Maker only knew where her groom had spent the night.
Finally calm, she realized that her right hand was still wrapped tight around a small object. With trembling fingers, she opened her hand to stare incredulously at the item she held. Or rather, items.
Tears threatened to form again as she stared at not only her mother's wedding ring, but her father's as well.
Overwhelmed, she folded her hands over the precious gifts and held them to her heart as she silently wept. This time Sacrifice joined his brother in the wordless reassurance that all would be well. As the sky outside brightened with the dawn, Lana brought herself back under control.
After all, today was the day what was between her and Alistair would be officially recognized.
It was going to be one of the best days of her life.
Emotions back in check, she carefully slid out of the high bed, not letting go of the precious rings. She silently padded to the table that held the carved jewelry box along with all the other little miscellaneous bits and pieces she was told that would be needed to get her ready for her big day. As she thought, there was a plain golden chain that would do for holding the rings for the moment. After sliding them into place, then slipping the chain over her head, she smiled as they settled just above her heart.
As she did her rummaging, she asked of her blades, "So you guard me even in my sleep?"
*Of course. We'd be poor guardians if we did not ward your mind as well as your body*, said Vigilance.
"Thank you."
Wordless pleasure was the response she received from both weapons.
Tucking the chain inside of the light chemise she'd been sleeping in, she splashed some cool water on her face from the ewer on the stand beside the bed, then patted her face dry with the hem of her garment, lips quirking in amusement as she imagined her mother's horrified reaction to such an unladylike action. She debated calling for a maid for tea and something light to tide her over until breakfast when there was a light knock at the door.
Even though this was supposed to be a safe place, she placed on hand on Sacrifice's hilt as she called out, "Yes?"
The door swung open and Leliana peered around the doorway. The red headed bard beamed happily, "I thought you'd be awake. And I'm sure you are starving!"
Laughing easily, Lana casually dropped her hand to her side, Leli's pale eyes tracking the movement, but not commenting. None of Lana's companions from the Blight commented about her paranoia, it had kept them alive after all. Though they all liked to tease the two Wardens about their appetites, and not just their seemingly bottomless stomachs.
"Well, I'll admit I was contemplating a snack to tide me over for breakfast", Lana dimpled at her friend.
"I thought so. I hope you do not mind, but I arranged for breakfast to be served. You'll have a snack before leaving for the ceremony."
Lana walked over and gave Leli a quick hug, "I don't know what I would've done without you during this whole mess."
"You are a resourceful woman, you would have figured something out." Leliana returned the hug. "I will admit though, that it's quite a honor to be able to help plan the wedding of two of my dearest friends."
Sapphire eyes cast a sly look at the bard, "And nothing at all with the fact it also happens to be a royal one?"
"Well, maybe just a little", Leli held up her thumb and forefinger a sliver apart as she said so. Then the smile faded a bit and she held up a sealed envelope, "I thought you might want to see this before everyone else descended upon you."
Curious, she accepted the envelope made of heavy, cream parchment. The golden colored wax sealing the missive was embossed with a raven in flight. On the front in familiar handwriting that she hadn't seen in too long was her name. She looked up at Leliana with too many questions that she couldn't give voice to.
"Zevran brought it to me this morning", Leliana said a little too quietly. She flushed somewhat and a rueful chuckle, "Well, late last night is more accurate."
Relief flooded through Lana, she'd been worried about him since there hadn't been any word from the former Crow, but she had to smile at Leli's reaction. Leli and Zev had been far more discreet with their relationship than she had been with Alistair, but then again the bard and assassin weren't interested in something that required emotional commitment. "I'm glad he made it back, and not just in time to be here for the wedding. Is he doing alright?"
"Oh him", Leli snorted, "That one is like a cat, he is. Will always land on his feet and laughing about it. So, are you going to see what Morri has to say or not?"
Understanding that Leli didn't want her to pry any further, Lana sat down at the table, gestured to Leliana to take a seat, then pulled out a dagger to open the letter. More of a brief note, but she still smiled as she read it.
My friend,
While I still do not get the sentiment, I know this day will mean a great deal to you and your templar. So for what it is worth, you have my blessings. I wish you nothing but a long life of happiness.
There was no signature, only a stylized raven in flight. Still, she knew that very precise, angular handwriting very well. "Morrigan wanted to give me her blessings."
Leliana shook her head, "I still do not know how you managed to befriend that...woman."
"She and I are different, and I think that's what made it possible. Well, we did have one thing in common."
"And that would be?"
"She understood duty."
Leliana nodded, "I suppose she did."
Then she brightened, "Anyway! No need to be so gloomy on such a wonderful day. Come, let us get you fed and washed and dressed! You are going to simply dazzle Alistair once we're done with you."
The young bride just smiled, put away the precious note, then pulled on a robe over top her chemise, since there was no point in getting overly dressed up before the time to put on her wedding gown. She figured the fact that she went through the difficulty of finding a gown that was appropriate was all the proof she needed of what she felt for Alistair. Even now Marlana still categorically loathed dresses. Well, except for this one. But more for what it was meant for than the fact she liked a dress for being a dress.
She absently slung the weapons belt holding her swords over her shoulder. Her friend didn't say anything, but didn't hide the fact she rolled her eyes at the continuing paranoia. Lana didn't say anything either, figuring her history said more than enough for her.
Leliana interrupted her musings as they walked down the hall to the small sitting room where the private breakfast was waiting for them, along with Wynne, Rowena and Alfstanna. "Lana, I know you tend to be a reserved woman, but it is okay for you to show some nerves about today."
That made her frown slightly, "Why in the name of the Maker would I be nervous?"
"Well, marriage is a big step..."
"Oh." She thought it over for a moment, "You have to understand, there's already a much stronger bond between us than that. This is merely a formality."
"I do not understand."
Lana paused, to give herself a moment to think over how to explain, and how much she wanted to ttell, "I don't want to go into too many details since it's extremely personal. Just take my word, there is a bond that Alistair and I willingly have that binds us far more than mere words ever could."
The braid in Leli's hair swung as she shook her head, "I do not understand, but I know your word is good. And will accept what you say."
Lana gave her a wry smile and continued on to breakfast, trying not to react to Leli nearly using the same words as Oriana. Though hunger distracted since her stomach had gotten to the point where it was going to embarrass her soon, "So I'm not worried about the wedding, or the marriage."
"So what are you worried about."
"Dancing with Alistair during the reception. The man might be light on his feet in his armor with sword and shield, but he has two left feet when it comes to dancing." She didn't want to voice her true fears, that something horrible was going to happen to disrupt the wedding ceremony.
The two were laughing when they entered the sitting room. Wynne smiled in warm greetings. Rowena and Alfstanna just stared at them bleary eyed after being up so late the night before in a private party the four of them had for Lana. Neither of the two noblewomen were used to the rigors of seemingly endless travel and battle for over a year, so they still needed time to get going. Though they weren't so tired as to not goggle slightly over how much food their soon to be Queen put away.
It wasn't just the appetite from being a Warden, or the fact that she was facing a long day where she may not be able to eat much that caused her to indulge. It was the fact that some amazing person made her favorite breakfast treat, fried egg bread. The name may not have sounded appetizing, but there was nothing like thick slabs of slightly stale bread soaked in a mixture of sweetened egg, lightly fried then smothered in butter and honey. It was pure culinary bliss.
After happily gorging, it was time for the real preparations to begin. While she reluctantly understood why they were going to help her get dressed, Lana drew the line at letting anyone help her wash herself. The only person who had that privilege was Alistair and there were times when she wanted a leisurely soak all on her own.
She did concede to letting them help dry her hair. Letting it dry naturally would have taken far too long, and it was a pain to dry it on her own. Besides, it wasn't like one or more of them weren't going to be fussing with her hair anyway. It had been made abundantly clear that she wasn't "allowed" to dress herself, or fix her hair or any other preparations.
Marlana Cousland may not have been the type to follow most traditions, but she realized how important it was for the women who had become her attendants and friends to follow certain ones. Particularly one that included fussing over the bride as she got ready. Though she largely suspected some of that was purely Leliana's making. She didn't remember such a fuss being kicked up over Oriana.
She didn't allow herself to remember how she had been one of the fussers when Gwen got married.
So with a smile she let them confer over her about how the underdress should be put on, then the overdress, how to arrange her hair, and to paint her face. Lana tried to focus on the happiness of the day rather than feeling like an oversized doll. At least none of them batted an eye at the fact she had her parents' wedding rings on a chain, but then again the only ones who knew that she hadn't found them for a fact were Fergus and Alistair. She wasn't looking forward to the conversation that was going to happen when she gave her brother their father's ring.
The only argument that came about was when she started to slide some of her daggers into the sleeves of her dress, which had been designed for such a thing. Rosemary had been surprisingly good natured about the request and had simply commented, "Given your reputation, m'lady, it's an understandable request. I think I can fit something in easily enough."
It was Alfstanna who protested the most, "But Marlana, it is your wedding, surely you do not believe you need to be able to protect yourself. There's going to be plenty of guards on hand! It is your wedding day, you shouldn't have to worry about such things."
Rowena had wisely remained silent after her initial outburst and Leli hadn't said anything at all about it, but had quietly nodded her head in agreement with Lana's decision. The same with Wynne, but then again they'd survived the Blight with her, even if they hadn't been there for the two acts of treachery that had started her on the path that led to this day.
It wasn't quite the dangerous cold, but Marlana's tone was very cool when she replied, "And that is precisely why I will not allow myself to go unarmed. And while the guards are good, and getting better under the training they're receiving from my Wardens, they aren't that good. I will not leave myself undefended ever again."
Uneasy silence fell, then she smiled warmly breaking the tension, "Besides, I'll feel undressed."
They all laughed, then finished the last touches before letting her see herself in the mirror.
Studying her reflection, Lana had a hard time believing she was looking at herself. The underdress of dark blue with highlights of dark silver inset with panels of a silvery medium blue and its slightly puffed sleeves that ended in tight cuffs about her wrists, both contrasted and complemented the silvery white overdress that had its own panels of medium blue to blend the two together. The long sleeves ended in a point that covered the backs of her hands and fell in graceful bell like shapes almost to the floor.
Her long hair was braided away from her face gold and silver embroidered ribbons made from the same materials as her dress, the back of her hair was allowed to cascade freely down her back in a shining wave of silver.
Stunned and pleased, she felt tears beginning to threaten, but blinked them back, not wanting to undo the careful work they'd done on her appearance.
Leli's eyes glittered with unshed tears of her own, the same with Wynne as the two came to either side of her and gently linked their arms around Lana. "Oh, Marlana, you are so beautiful. No other bride could ever outshine you."
She hugged both of them in return, "Thank you, all of you. I probably couldn't have done this on my own after all."
Wynne gently patted her cheek affectionately, "You're quite welcome, my dear. Now we must get going if we're to have a good view."
Lana narrowed her eyes, "I seem to recall making sure there were designated places for all of you so you wouldn't have to fight for it."
The elderly mage patted her cheek affectionately again before serenely heading off with Rowena and Alfstanna giving her quick hugs before hurrying off in Wynne's wake.
She stared at the hastily shut door in bemusement, "Was it something I said?"
Leli gave her a sly smile as she checked her appearance one last time in the mirror causing Lana to smile in return as she realized what shoes the bard was wearing. "So I guess I was right that you'd get to wear them some day."
The other woman turned around beaming, kicking out her feet a bit to show off the pale blue satin shoes with their delicate heels. The golden lace and charms shaped like puppies perfectly described the sophisticated woman with the big heart. Not surprisingly Leli had a dress of the same colors as the shoes, including matching lace, and while there were no charms on the gown, there were delicate charms on her necklace and bracelet. "You said to keep them for a happier day. I could not imagine a better time, no?"
She twirled around a bit grinning, causing the full skirt to flare out around her, "Besides, it gave me the excuse to get a beautiful, new dress!"
Lana started to laugh, then paused when she felt all of the Wardens in Denerim gather outside. Instead of concern, crystal blue eyes twinkled with mischief, "Judging by your expression, I think your escort has arrived. Which means that - "
She was interrupted by a knock, then continued as she went to get the door revealing Fergus in the doorway, resplendent in brilliant, new silverite armor, head bare, but the family sword and shield at his back. Leli continued on smoothly, "Your brother is here right on time."
Suddenly feeling a little awkward, Lana started to approach Fergus, but stopped at the look in his eyes. Knuckling away the mistiness in his eyes, he smiled and said a little hoarsely, "My little sister, all grown up and beautiful enough to outshine the sun."
Lana flushed a little, not used to such a compliment from her brother.
The bard dipped a graceful curtsy, "My Lord. If you'll excuse me?"
Fergus smiled at her a little bemusedly, "I'm pretty sure I told you there was no need for formality, Leliana, given your friendship with my little sister."
Leli gave him an impish smile before slipping out of the room to give the two siblings a little time alone.
His smile turned into a smirk as he turned towards Lana, "Figures it'd take something like your own wedding to get you into a dress. Unlike with your groom's coronation."
Feeling back on an even keel with that comment, she playfully wrinkled her nose at him, "Unlike the coronation, this time I had the time to prepare myself for such a torture device."
The two siblings laughed together, then Fergus held out his hand to his sister, who easily slipped her arm through his. As they walked down the halls, Lana realized that her brother kept casting odd looks her way. Since it was her brother, she figured she didn't need to circle around to the matter, "All right, what is it this time?"
"This time what?" His green eyes sparkled with mischief, seeing that look lifted her heart even more. Even though she understood why, it had been hard to see her normally good humored brother to be so serious.
"You keep looking at me like you've never seen me before."
He grinned, "It's the jewelry. I didn't think you owned that much."
Lana looked down at the simple golden chains that flowed down in graceful tiers from her throat to the top of the bustline of the overdress, the movement causing the elegant sapphire drops to sway gently from her ears. She'd chosen not to wear any bracelets due to the sleeves of the underdress, and the only ring she visibly wore was the ring Alistair gave her when he proposed.
Somewhat defensively she replied, "It's not that much. I know there'll be guests who will be wearing far more than this. In fact two of them helped me get ready."
"For you, it is a lot. Where did you get it? I know those aren't any of...mother's pieces."
Not ready to have that conversation just yet, she went for a different tact, "You know how the storage rooms and attics of Castle Cousland hold way too much stuff that no one wants to get rid of?"
He laughed, "Somehow I'm not surprised you went digging into the attics of the palace."
She sighed dramatically, she fondly remembered some of her escapades in the attics as a child, "Unfortunately, they wouldn't let me go digging. Instead some of the servants were loaded down with various odds and ends for me to look through in the comfort of my rooms."
Fergus snickered at her expression, "They obviously don't know you, sister dear."
The smile he got in return promised that they'd learn. Then they were at the door to the courtyard where she could feel the Wardens waiting. Fergus stopped just before the door, turned to her and said, quietly and seriously, "Are you sure this is what you want?"
"Excuse me?" She couldn't believe he was asking her this. Particularly at this time.
"I'm serious. It's not too late if this wedding isn't what you want."
"Fergus...", she trailed off not wanting to upset her brother, but really. "Alistair is the one I want to spend the rest of my life with. What I don't want is to be Arless of Denerim, the Queen of Ferelden, or even Warden-Commander, but circumstances forced our hands."
She held up her hand when it looked like he was about to something in reply, "Yet, I think I can do some good in all of those roles."
His expression lightened, "I just wanted to make sure, that's all. Now let's get going so you aren't late to your wedding and I earn Alistair's wrath."
"And not mine?"
"You, I know how to deal with. When Alistair gets angry, that's scary."
Both of them laughing at the thought of someone other than Lana scaring people when angry as they went out into the bright sunlight of a perfect autumn day.
Fergus led her to the carriage that was awaiting to transport them to the palace. That the ceremony was being held there caused some raised eyebrows, but the official reason was that while the Chantry in Denerim wasn't big enough to accommodate the number of guests involved.
Unofficially, it was much like Alistair's coronation, neither one wanted the Chantry to think it had too much power over either of them.
When they fully entered the courtyard, Lana stopped at the sight before her.
All of the Wardens in Denerim were present, wearing their formal armor (or robes in the case of the mages) of grey with dark blue, almost black, accents, topped by the surcoats proudly bearing the rampant white griffin outlined in that same dark blue. At their head stood an oddly formal Kendrick, Delindro at his side trying to surprise a grin. Kendrick crossed his arms over his chest and bowed deeply to her, "My Lady, if it would please you, we will be the escort on your trip to the ceremony."
Swallowing back the lump in her throat, she smiled warmly, "It pleases me very much to accept the very generous offer to be my escort."
Casting a sideways look at Fergus proved that he had been a part of this plan. Given the reactions of her ladies, she already figured out they had a hand in it. All this care... it was almost too much. She didn't have the words to express what this meant to her, but the smile on her face and the light in her eyes said everything she could possibly hope for. As Fergus helped her into the carriage, she saw a plainer one, where Rowena, Alfstanna, Leliana and Wynne were waiting. The four women smiled and waved as their carriage went off, giving the room needed for the Wardens to mount up on their horses.
She had to smile again, someone had managed to find enough grey horses to have alternating, matching pairs, of dark grey and light grey mounts. And she wondered just how much practice they had as they easily flowed around the carriage, their mounts prancing in response to the excitement of their riders.
As they made their stately procession through the streets of Denerim, crowds of citizens, many who had traveled a distance in the hopes of catching the glimpse of their Hero, gathered, cheering happily. Early autumn flowers, little charms for happiness, fertility and good health, as well as streamers with Chantry blessings fell in a light rain upon the procession.
Lana shook her head slightly in wonder while Fergus smiled at her. "Well little sister, that's what happens when you go around saving people. Sometimes they're actually grateful and want to cheer you on."
"I know, it just amazes me since I never wanted their adulation. I was just doing what I saw as my duty."
"And that is why they're so eager to heap it on you." He gave her a sly grin, "You said it's a little late to change your mind about the marriage, and you're right. I think there'd be a lot of people put out if you did that."
She gaped at him, then snapped her mouth shut and mock glared at him. He laughed, "Oh that look, I'm glad to know I can still rile you up."
"Hmph, and today is supposed to be a happy day."
Fergus just smirked at her some more. She just shook her head, then laughed when she saw someone manage to toss a garland so that it landed on Delindro's shoulders. Fergus joined her when he saw what set her off.
The crowds roared joyfully, they had gathered outside of the palace as well as the streets of the city, when they saw their Hero laughingly exit the carriage with her brother. It had been decided at the last moment for them to see her, rather than risk the near riots that almost occurred the day of the coronation when word spread that she was awake.
So with the sounds of so many blessings and well wishing, she entered the palace beaming with her own joy.
Though the happiness faded when they approached the door of the chamber the ceremony was to take place. So many momentous events had taken place, few had been truly happy. Unaware of how serious her expression was, even though she feel Alistair nearby, and how happy he was caused Fergus to give her a measuring look.
Then the great doors slowly swung open causing the guests who had gathered to fall silent and the two began the slow walk down the aisle. Quietly, her brother said, "You know, Lana, it is okay to smile."
She looked up at his smiling face and smiled back before returning her attention to the temporary altar setup on the dais before the throne where the Grand Cleric stood smiling. Then she felt Alistair's happiness change to something so much brighter which drew her attention.
Later she would remember all of those who stood at the edges of the aisle, those who truly smiled and those who did so for politeness. Those who just barely refrained from glaring at her. But at that moment, none of them mattered. She was aware of only Alistair, who stood before the altar in his archdemon bone armor, lit up by the rays of the sun shining through the clerestory windows. A strangely shy smile on his lips, though his eyes were bright.
It was that moment she realized two things. The first was that the ceremony really was important to her, if only to say to the world "This is the man who is my best friend who I'm madly in love with. The person I want to spend the rest of my life with, no matter how short or long." The second thing...why she needed someone to walk down the aisle with her. It wasn't to "give her away", it was the sheer fact that she was feeling so giddy from her excited happiness that she, who was known for her graceful movements, would've tripped over her own feet if she didn't have her brother's hand to steady her.
The bride and groom had eyes only for each other as Alistair took her hand in his in silent greetings for a brief moment as Fergus guided her into place before stepping to the side and back of her. Opposite from where her brother stood was Teagan in the role of Alistair's family. For a moment Alistair looked away and over her head to Fergus. She didn't have to turn and look to know that Fergus smiled warmly, if a trifle mistily, and nodded his final approval.
Reluctantly letting Lana's hand go, the two turned towards the altar and the Grand Cleric who briefly raised her hands in blessing before beginning the ceremony.
"We are gathered here today in celebration of the joining of Alistair Thierin and Marlana Cousland. There are many things to say about marriage, so much wisdom concerning the joining together of two we are unable to give all of this wisdom to these two who stand before us, we can hope to leave with the knowledge of love and its strengths. The anticipation of the knowledge and wisdom that comes with time. The law of life is love unto all beings for without love, life is nothing, without love, death has no redemption.
If we learn no more in life, let it be this:
Marriage is a bond to be entered into only after considerable thought and reflection. As with any aspect of life, it has its cycles. The ups and downs, trials and triumphs. With full understanding of this, Marlana and Alistair have come here today to be joined as one in marriage. Others would ask, at this time, who gives the bridge in marriage. But given the woman before us, she is not property to be bought and sold, given and taken."
Though no one laughed, all gathered smiled broadly. Marlana Cousland had proven that she was her own person and it was well known that was one of the many reasons why Alistair fell for her.
Her Grace continued, her voice serious but with a suspicious twinkle in her eyes, "So I simply ask if she comes of her own will and if she has her family's blessing.
Marlana, is it true that you have come of your own free will and accord?"
Smiling, Marlana said in her sweet, clear voice, projecting her words so that all could hear, "Yes, it is true."
"With whom do you come and whose blessings accompany you?"
Fergus stepped forward, "She comes with me, her brother, and accompanied by all of her family's blessings."
As the Grand Cleric turned towards Alistair, Fergus stepped back, smiling broadly. "And do you, Alistair, come of your own free will and accord?"
His smile broadened if it was possible, but his voice was steady and serious as he spoke, "Yes, it is true."
"And with whom do you come and whose blessings accompany you?"
Teagan stepped forward, "He comes with me, his uncle by choice, and he is accompanied by all of his family's blessings."
"Then please join hands and listen to that which I am about to say. Above you are the stars, below you are the stones, as time doth pass, remember this:
Your love should be firm like the stone beneath your feet, like a star your love should be constant. Let the powers of the mind and the intellect guide you in your marriage. Let the strength of your wills bind you together, let the power of love and desire make you happy, and the strength of your dedication make you inseparable. Be close, but not too close. Possess one another, yet be understanding. Have patience with one another, for storms will come. Yet the storms always pass.
Be free in giving affection and warmth. Have no fear and let not the ways of the unenlightened give you unease, for the Maker is with you always."
"Alistair, I have not the right to bind thee to Marlana, only you have this right. If it be your wish, say so at this time and place your ring upon her hand."
Eyes alight with love and joy, Alistair slid the wedding ring he had fashioned to match the ring of betrothal on Marlana's left ring finger. The ring caught the sunlight in just the right manner for it to seemingly turn into a blaze of argent and sapphire flames as it settled into place.
His voice was somewhat husky as he said, "I, Alistair Thierin, in the name of the Maker and his bride Andraste, by the life that courses in my blood and the love that resides within my heart, take thee, Marlana Cousland, to my hand, my heart and my spirit, to be my chosen wife. To desire thee and be desired by thee, to possess thee, and to be possessed by thee, without sin or shame, for naught can exist in the purity of my love for thee. I promise to love thee wholly and completely without restraint, in sickness and in health, in plenty and in poverty. I shall not to seek to change thee in any way, for that would demean my love for you as the person you are."
"Marlana, if it be your wish for Alistair to be bound to you, place the ring on his finger."
Sapphire eyes seemed to outshine the ring newly placed on her hand as she slid the deceptively plain gold ring upon Alistair's hand, it didn't blaze as hers had, but for a moment it looked as if she had somehow fashioned a ring of sunlight instead of gold.
Her voice too had taken a slight hoarseness as she spoke, "I, Marlana Cousland, in the name of the Maker and his bride, Andraste, by the life that courses within my blood and the love that resides within my heart, take thee, Alistair Thierin, to my hand, my heart, and my spirit, to be my chosen husband. To desire thee and be desired by thee, to possess thee, and be possessed by thee, without sin or shame, for naught can exist in the purity of my love for thee. I promise to love thee wholly and completely without restraint, in sickness and in health, in plenty and in poverty. I shall not seek to change thee in any way, for that would demean my love for you as the person you are."
The vows had been easy for them to come up with and say. After all hadn't they lived through some of the worst times together? Some might have expected for their relationship to fall apart without the pressures of the Blight and civil war. But it was the relatively peaceful time afterwards that cemented their bonds, since they could take the time to simply be with each other. In those quiet, private, moments, they found they liked and loved one another more than they had believed possible.
Smiling almost as broadly as the newlywed couple, the cleric raised her hands in blessing, "And so by the Maker's grace, I do name you husband and wife. May your love so endure that its flame remain a guiding light unto you."
Not needing any prompting, Alistair took Marlana into his arms and the two kissed long and deep to seal their pledge.
Those gathered cheered loudly. Oddly enough the one who cheered the most gustily was Shale, stony fists held high in the air as if the greatest victory had been won.
Reluctantly the two finally parted, Alistair held up his right hand to their guests since he still held her right hand in his left, "My fellow Fereldens, I present to you my wife, and your Queen, Marlana Cousland-Thierin."
As she breathlessly, and smiling as brightly as her new husband, Marlana raised her left hand in greetings. She never had a chance to say anything as the crowd, forgetting their dignity, cheered wildly enough to match Shale's enthusiasm.
Much later, once the official receiving line was done and the main toasts had been said, the two slowly danced together, smiling into each other's eyes, for once uncaring about those who watched them. And what those watchers had to say. Even though Lana didn't entirely let down her guard, she wasn't trying to keep an eye on any she thought might have ulterior motives. It was their wedding day and she didn't want to ruin it.
Even their enemies, either together or individually, weren't plotting that day, magnanimously giving them a happy day. After all, it fit into their plans. A young man grieving over the loss of his much beloved wife was at his most vulnerable. So they hid behind their masks of well wishing the newlyweds and silently made plans.
By unspoken consent, they were alone on the dance floor for that first, important and sweet dance. Despite her jokes about his ability to dance, she was in no danger of of injury to her feet from Alistair. Part of it was that after the ceremony he had changed out of his armor and into a long sleeved, silk shirt the color of dark honey, soft leather trousers dyed a couple shades darker than the shirt and were tucked into boots made of the same soft leather. It also helped that he had taken a little time to practice his dancing for this day.
They made quite a sight together, the King that was already being referred to as "The Golden", not just because of his looks, but his good nature, and his Silver Queen. So called mainly because of her looks, but also for the fact many saw her as containing the purifying quality that myth and legend attached to that metal.
Pitching his voice so that only she could hear, Alistair said, "There's something I've decided wanted you to know."
"And what would that be?"
"I will always love you. Not just in this life, not just after either. Any life."
She gave him a soft, warm smile, "And I will always love you. In this life or any other. In this world or any other."
He echoed her smile, "Always then."
"Always."
They kissed as they finished their true vows and their dance. Their guests applauded them, not knowing what they had witnessed.
Second Note: Wow, so it's done. After almost 2 years of intermittent writing. I wish I could say, "And they lived happily ever after", but unfortunately I can't. However I thought I'd give them a moment of happiness. By the time you're reading this, the first chapter of Forsworn, the sequel to this story should be posted. Thank you again for joining me on this journey, and hope you continue with the next.
