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 54: I SHALL NOT BE LEFT TO WANDER

I shall not be left to wander the drifting roads of the Beyond.

For there is no darkness in the Maker's Light

And nothing that He has wrought shall be lost.

Trials 1:14

9:29 Dragon 25 Justinian === Royal Palace Denerim

Teyrn Loghain's head ached. Again. The supply of potions Anora had acquired from Paul, the Court Mage, diminished daily. He had refused to be examined by the mage, but accepted the potions when Anora insisted.

Loghain sat on a bench beneath a fine copper beech in this less frequented section of the garden. Around his sanctuary taller, denser plants screened his bench from the more open gardens to the east between the two wings of the palace. Out of sight of the windows. Perhaps no one will bother me. Here there were no blooms to admire or ponds with inviting grassy verges. These plantings, near the west wall, screened the formal garden from the utilitarian kitchen and herb gardens to the south. He pulled a vial from his pocket and quaffed a potion.

I think I'll return to Gwaren after this damn Tourney is over. Perhaps see how the Shield troops fare at Ostagar before I return. The wardens there bear watching now that Fergus has gone home. Maybe I should leave now and not go to the Tourney. Howe left for Amaranthine today to avoid it. He hates the Wardens too.

Leaning his back against the tree trunk, Loghain's eyes closed as he waited for the pain to recede. Rendon Howe, alone among the nobility, gave credence to his complaints about Cailan's agreements with the Orlesians. The mining agreements which seemed to favor Highever were Rendon's main complaint. Loghain worried about another trading compound, this time in the heartland of Ferelden, in Redcliffe.

Even worse, from the Redcliffe compound, the Orlesian merchants could travel throughout the Bannorn. At least the merchants in Amaranthine, Higheverport and Denerim could not leave their respective cities without a pass. Now Orlesian were free to ramble throughout the land. Well, not in Gwaren. Cailan had the sense not to allow that, but everywhere else. We'll have to be vigilant in Gwaren. They'll try to sneak through.

But Bryce! How had he allowed this to happen? He seems to have Cailan's ear, yet we'll have Orlesians roaming the land. Loghain had expected better from his old friend.

He knew Eamon would favor Orlais. Even Arl Broughten complied too easily with Cailan's, really Eamon's, suggestions. He had not expected acquiescence from Bryce Cousland. He expected Bryce to temper Cailan's foolishness, not abet it. The lure of returning to power has colored Bryce's common sense. Arl Howe had said as much, when they learned Teyrn Cousland would accompany Cailan to Orlais, but Loghain had not believed him. He thought Howe's suspicions grew out of jealously at Bryce's return to favor. It seems Howe knew better than I. He said Bryce could not be trusted. That he entertained the Orlesians at the trading compound in Higheverport in Castle Cousland. That he lusted after Orlesian livres and a return to Court in Denerim. Howe even claims he'll marry Lys to an Orlesian nobleman. Howe told Loghain about Cailan's suggestion that Delilah find a marriage in Orlais. Howe had refused, but thought both Bryce and Philip Broughten had agreed.

Lys won't stand for an Orlesian match. Then he thought about Anora and realized Lys would do whatever she understood her duty to be, just as Anora had.

Then Bryce had made the agreement to provide mining expertise. More Orlesian gold for Highever. So much for the Cousland alliance with Nevarra. He had argued with Anora about the mining contracts. She believed that providing mining expertise helped Nevarra by diverting Orlais from its repeated attempts to retake the Blasted Hills. If Orlais had its own sources of ore and mineral wealth, they would not need to retake Nevarran territory. Loghain thought Orlais would try to find new sources of ore and continue to harry Nevarra and the Blasted Hills mines. Anora had shrugged. If they have their own supply, they will covet our mineral wealth less, she had replied. There are markets a plenty. It can only help Ferelden and Nevarra. Loghain shook his head recalling conversations with Fergus at Ostagar. His argument was similar to Anora's. I should talk to Fergus. Get his opinion before I condemn Bryce. Better to listen to Fergus and Anora than Howe.

After the trip, Eamon had returned to Redcliffe, not Denerim. Cailan swore he was still Chancellor. It was not Eamon, however, who would arrive at Court in a week or two, it was Bryce Cousland, King Cailan's new Foreign Minister. Eamon's star seemed to be waning as Bryce's rose. I should feel pleased at Eamon's demise, if that's what this is. Bryce is not Eamon, but he does want to return to favor. What will he pay? Eamon massaged his temples. This is Bryce. I should welcome him to Court. We can join together to advise Cailan as we did Maric. Loghain sat up, his head clearing. The potion was working. I need to wait and see what Bryce does. How his influence affects Cailan. He may want to return to favor, but not at Ferelden's expense. Howe's wrong. He must be. Cailan right in choosing Bryce over Eamon. That must be good.

Now he had to attend the Maker benighted Grey Warden Tourney at the Denerim Tourney Grounds. He had argued with Cailan about that. Let the Chantry sponsor it, but why attend and confer Royal approval? Somehow, the Warden Commander had convinced almost every noble and powerful bann to sponsor a tourney to provide Grey Warden recruits. The Chantry would be the final one this year unless Bryce sponsored one in Highever. Duncan had walked away from each tourney with at least one recruit.

Loghain found it odd that the number of Fereldan wardens did not seem to increase. The number remained at two score; the faces barely changed at the warden compound. He had been to Ostagar once in the spring. Few new Fereldan faces had greeted him there. Most of the Wardens were ones he had met before. He had begun to wonder what happened to the recruits. That had caused his most recent argument with Cailan.

"Loghain, not all Duncan's recruits stay in Denerim. Some go to Ostagar. Others patrol along the eastern and western boundaries of the Wilds. Some older wardens get sent to other posts. You should be happy when Duncan sends Orlesian wardens to Montsimmard!"

"Do you have a roster of all the Grey Wardens in Ferelden?"

"No, Loghain, nor will I request one. That is Grey Warden business. I admit, they are a secretive organization, but they are not a subversive one. Maker's Hairy Toes, Orlais does not control them!"

"Perhaps Duncan sends the new recruits to Orlais for…" he wanted to say indoctrination, but did not. " …training."

Cailan sighed. "Perhaps he does, but I don't think so. We have observers on the roads now, as you suggested after those chevaliers got through. We've only seen a few Orlesian wardens heading home. That Warden, Riordan, visits occasionally, but not surreptitiously. He's not brought chevaliers with him again. You worry unnecessarily Loghain."

"And you trust too easily, Your Majesty."

Cailan sighed. "Do you have any business to discuss Loghain or have you simply come to annoy me?"

Loghain's eyes narrowed. "I'm sorry my concerns for the safety of your Kingdom annoy you, Cailan. I'll take my leave."

Loghain had bowed, turned on his heel and left.

Loghain sat up, his headache mostly gone. He seemed to argue with everyone lately. He would probably argue with Bryce when he arrived. Maker, I need to go to Gwaren and get away from this damn city.

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

Cailan rubbed his neck and watched Loghain stalk away. His paranoia hos gotten out of hand. What will he think when the Wardens take Alistair? Cailan leaned back in his chair. The wardens will keep him here. That's why we want him out of Chantry hands, to keep him safe and in Ferelden. He frowned, anticipating Loghain's counter arguments. Perhaps I should ask where Alistair will serve.

"King Cailan!" Duncan inclined his head. "Checking up on our preparations for the Tourney?"

"I'm sure you have it well in hand, Duncan. No, I had a question, that's all. Can we speak in your study?"

Duncan closed the door behind them... He motioned Cailan to a comfortable chair in front of his desk. He took the one beside it.

"What's on your mind Your Majesty?"

"Alistair. Have you insured you will be able to recruit him?"

"I have, Your Majesty. He's been punished, as I think you know, for bad behavior at Dragon's Peak. Diminished in rank and sent to work in the Armory. He does not spar with the other initiates. He only teaches pages and first year initiates. As such, he can probably not win the tournament. He's out of practice and out of shape. I know his potential. I saw him spar at Kinloch Hold. He used to be very good. He can be again. I had good reports of his character, when he was younger. He seems to have fallen off the path after I saw him at Kinloch Hold. He is a good candidate."

"So, if he is not the winner?"

"The Chantry agreed that I could take two recruits. The winner and one other. The other will be Alistair. If he is such a problem, perhaps they won't care if he leaves." Assuming they don't care who he is.

"And if they do care? The Grand Cleric is aware of his parentage, Duncan."

The Warden Commander raised his eyebrows at the news. "Then I can conscript him. It's not a method I use often, but it is available to me."

"Good. I will approve. Grand Cleric Elemena will have to agree. Even the Chantry recognizes the rights and privileges of the Grey Wardens."

"That they do, Your Majesty."

"Then what happens, Duncan. Is there a ceremony of some sort? I wondered if I could attend?"

Duncan rubbed his beard. "There is an initiation, Your Majesty, but its content is a Grey Warden secret I'm afraid. I have two recruits here already. Once Alistair and the winner join us, we'll spend some time training the recruits here and then head towards Ostagar. I expect the initiation to happen there. We prefer the recruits get introduced to fighting darkspawn as soon as possible."

"I see." Cailan frowned.

"Your Majesty, it might be best if you do not see the boy right away. Undue attention from you, the Queen or Teyrn Loghain might give away his…unusual status."

"You're right, of course, Duncan, but I visit here regularly. Are you saying I should stop? I would treat him as I do any other warden."

"There is the issue of his resemblance to you."

"Ah. That could be a problem. I see." He stretched his legs out and grasped the arms of the chair. "So, I should probably stay away for a while."

"At least until he leaves for Ostagar."

"And after Ostagar? Will you keep him there, or will he return to Denerim?"

Duncan shifted in his seat. He did not want to anger the king or coddle the boy, but perhaps some special attention to Alistair was warranted. "He will stay with me. He will need time to adjust. I plan on giving him some personal attention. Make sure he does not resume his troublesome ways. I saw his spirit at Kinloch Hold, but it needs constraining or he will continue to get in trouble. He must learn to curb his tongue and measure his actions. I thought perhaps I might make him a squire to me. I don't usually have one, but in his case, it seems appropriate. He knows how to care for arms and armor. I can enforce discipline as needed." Duncan sat quietly waiting for the king's response. Cailan could be mercurial when thwarted.

Cailan frowned, staring at his boots. "I'd hoped to establish some connection with him, but you make good points. He's to be a warden and have an illustrious future. He should be able to settle in here without interference from his past." He looked up. "What a magnificent chance for him. I won't ruin it."

"Thank you, Your Majesty. I think that's the wisest path. Perhaps later…."

"Yes, once he's established I can meet with him. I would like him to understand I wanted this for him. That at least I got him away from the Chantry. I'm afraid he believes we all abandoned him. I'd like him to know we didn't. Not completely. Thank you, Duncan. I know he'll prove himself valuable to the Wardens."

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

"Have you decided to attend the Tourney tomorrow, My Lady?" Kai knew Lys had mixed feelings about seeing her childhood friend after so many years. She watched as Lys somewhat dejectedly paw through her gowns.

"I must. The Queen and King will attend, so we must all follow." Lys pulled out a dark plum colored overdress. I think this will do. I'll wear the deep green tunic, the green and silver head piece with a veil and the black Antivan leather boots, I think. The Tourney Grounds will be too messy for fine shoes.

"That looks like mourning, Lys. Not quite purple and black, but very close."

"Exactly."

Kai frowned, not following, but Lys did not explain.

"Will I attend you there? The tourney might be interesting. I've never seen templars fight. It doesn't seem they would need to be very skilled against mages. They have other talents they use, don't' they?"

"They can be fearsome fighters, but they do have other skills. The darkspawn have magic, too. Papa sent mages to Maric's Shield at Ostagar to use against the darkspawn. A few Highever templars went along. The templar skills worked on the darkspawn mages, Fergus said. That impressed the Warden Commander. Fergus thought he might recruit a templar from Highever. He has a few mage wardens, but no templar wardens. Probably the Warden Commander decided to go directly to the Chantry instead. He asked for the Tourney, just as he has with all the banns and nobles. I'm not sure winning a place with the Wardens is such a great prize though."

"I thought you respected the Wardens." Ah, now we get to it I hope.

"I…do. I respect what they do, what they must do. Wardens have a lot of secrets. Some are there for the finding in old books and records." Well, they are if you can go to the library in Areth.

"And you're not going to tell me?"

"I…their initiation can be dangerous. They don't tell their recruits that. The recruits don't learn the secrets until after they join. I understand why they do it, but I still don't like it."

"So any templar can participate in this tourney?"

"No. The tourney will feature initiates, the templars who are about to take vows. I guess it's to be quite the event. Templars and the Chantry honoring the Grey Wardens. The Grand Cleric and Knight-Commander will join the King and Queen in the Royal box. Should be entertaining, yes?"

"I suppose. Will I attend you?"

"Of course. Wear your tabard and cloak." She looked at Sherpa who wagged her stump. She rolled her eyes. "Maker! Bring Sherpa, too."

Kai scratched Sherpa's shoulders. "Success, girl," she whispered as Lys shook her head.

9:29 Dragon 26 Justinian === Denerim Tourney Grounds

"What's he doing here?" Ser Eryhn scowled at the templar initiate wearing well-worn armor and carry a battered sword and shield. "Surely he's not fighting. He doesn't even spar with pages."

Ser Eryhn believed she could win this Tourney, escape the Templars and become a Grey Warden. She had begged the Knight-Captain to postpone her vows until after the Tourney. He had agreed, but allowed her to go through the ceremony making her a knight. .

As a Chantry orphan in Highever Eryhn thought that becoming a templar would allow her to serve Andraste in her own way. She had no wish to be a priest. She wanted to fight, to protect worthy mages, bring apostates into the security provided by the Circle of Magi and rid the world of maleficarum. She believed becoming a templar, even though there were few women in their ranks, would let her pursue her dreams. Then she left Highever and found the world of templars and mages in the rest of Ferelden a very different, more brutal place. Becoming a grey warden seemed to offer a way out.

Sers Kalvin and Talrew looked towards the initiate Ser Eryhn singled out.

"Who is he?" Ser Kalvin, a Denerim templar asked. "I don't recognize him."

"You wouldn't," Eryhn replied. "He came here from Dragon's Peak a year ago as a punishment case. He lives in the armory and works there for Master Quenton. He sometimes instructs the older pages and first year initiates in forms. Can you imagine, failing so badly at Dragon's Peak that they send you away!" She snickered.

"You've never seen him fight?"

"No. He's not permitted to spar with us. Perhaps he's here as a joke. A clown to entertain the crowds between bouts."

"I'll try not to hurt him should I face him," Ser Talrew said, "but If he's as hapless as you say, we won't meet him.

"Well, when we meet I will best you both." Eryhn smiled. "I intend the winner to be me."

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

A few days earlier, Knight-Captain Cynan had echoed Eryhn's remarks to Arms Master Quenton when he learned Alistair would fight. "That boy cannot fight."

"The Warden Commander requested him." Quenton replied. "He saw him instructing the pages and requested he be part of the tourney. I suggest you take your objections to him." Quenton nodded towards the Warden Commander standing nearby.

The Knight-Captain left Quenton to his duties and strode towards the Warden Commander. Duncan had overhead Cynan's objections.

"I disagree, Knight-Captain," Duncan announced as Cyan approached him. He had expected objections to Alistair's participation. "I have seen him fight. He may be out of practice and lack endurance, but that can be remedied with training."

"Seen him fight? With some silly noble at Dragon's Peak?"

"No. A full templar at Kinloch Hold. Alistair won."

"Was the templar ill?"

"No. The boy won with his skill and strength, which is why I want to see him fight here."

Knight-Captain Cynan glared at Duncan, "I thought you wanted the Tourney to recruit talented templars. To get something better than cutpurses and thieves?" When Duncan did not respond, he shrugged, then smiled. "He'll not win. Let him make a fool of himself. I'll send armor and weapons to his room."

"Thank you, Knight Captain." Duncan and Quenton exchanged looks as Cynan marched away.

"Better let him wear the armor Cynan provides, however, poor the quality. I can only push the Knight–Captain so far," Quenton said. "if he makes it through the first day, I'll have him in decent own armor for the semi-final bout."

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

Queen Anora, King Cailan and their attendants arrived at the Tourney grounds shortly before the first bout. Grand Cleric Elemena, Knight-Captain Cynan and Knight-Commander Greagoir stood as the royals entered. King Cailan sat in the center with Queen Anora to his right. Knight Commander Greagoir sat to the King's left separated from him by an empty chair. Arl Kendalls and Grand Cleric Elemena sat to the Queen's right. Anora' three Ladies sat behind her in the second row of seats. Knight-Captain Cynan sat at the end of the second row behind the Grand Cleric. A chair at the other end of the second row remained empty. Behind them servants in various liveries sat or arranged refreshments.

The Royal box extended into the Grounds beyond the boxes to either side. The wooden roof protected the occupants from sun and rain, but the open front and sides allowed cooling breezes in. Wide at the front, the wedge-shaped box narrowed towards the rear. Full partitions began part way along the side of the box and afforded privacy from the adjoining boxes. Benches in the back allowed the servants and lesser retainers to sit until they were needed.

Knight-Commander Greagoir had arrived from Kinloch Hold a few days earlier, bringing with him several initiates from other templar monasteries. He and the Grand Cleric agreed this might stave off further requests for recruits.

Greagoir also hoped to come to some agreement regarding the Warden Commander's request for mage recruits. Grand Cleric Elemena disapproved of allowing mages to be recruited. If the wardens required mages, a contingent could be sent from Kinloch Hold under templar guard she reasoned. They could remain for the duration of a battle and then return to the Tower. Greagoir and First Enchanter Irving had a more liberal view. They believed two or three mages could be allowed to join the Wardens.

The Grey Wardens had always used mages. Greagoir saw no reason why the Fereldan wardens should have so few, particularly if templar wardens could watch over them. Even without lyrium, the wardens with templar training had some power. Magebane could be used for additional control. A few warden mages could prove beneficial in the fight against darkspawn, as the Highever mages had shown. If more were needed, they could be provided on a contingent basis, as Grand Cleric Elemena preferred.

Greagoir seated himself after the king and queen had settled in their chairs. The chair next to King Cailan had been earmarked for Duncan who had yet to appear. He had hoped to talk with Warden Commander prior to the tourney. Their discussion would have to wait, he realized, as he saw the heralds advancing towards the royal box to declare the Tourney open. As the Arl of Denerim rose to welcome the participants, the Crown, the Chantry, the Nobility and the commoners, Duncan slid into his seat next to Greagoir at the King's left.

Behind the queen her Ladies Delilah, Philippa and Melysande sat quietly, watching for any signal from Queen Anora. As Arl Kendalls announced the Tourney, Teyrn Loghain quietly slipped into the seat at the end of the row beside Lys.

"You realize Alistair might be fighting today." He had leaned close to her ear to whisper as Arl Kendalls continued to speak. "I suspect Cailan helped engineer this tourney so Duncan could recruit him."

"Did he? Why? Does he think the Wardens better than the Chantry?" Lys whispered back.

"Yes. He's desperate to get Alistair free of the Chantry. I think the plan started when he was at Ostagar last winter. He's had several private meetings with Duncan since then."

"He could acknowledge him." Lys' tone betrayed her bitterness.

"No, he can't."

Lys eyes searched Loghain's face. "Just ignore her. Others can attest to his parentage."

"Lys, it's not that simple. Even I understand that." He nodded toward the Grand Cleric, then lowered his voice further. "Cailan and Anora fear she'll send Alistair to Orlais. On this he and I agree."

"He thinks the wardens will be better?"

"He does. I'm not sure. Orlais influences the wardens as well. The wardens could just as easily send him across the border."

"The wardens claim they owe allegiance to no state. Perhaps they are less likely than the Chantry to bow to Orlais' wishes, but that does not mean they would be better."

Loghain blew a breath between pursed lips. "Do you also believe babies can be found in cabbage patches?"

Lys stifled a smile. "No, Your Grace. I think Griffons bring them."

He gave Lys an exasperated look, but the hint of a smile touched his lips.

"Orlais might be the least of our worries for him," she continued. "I don't know whether to hope the Warden Commander selects him or not."

"I thought you would want him free of the Chantry."

She shrugged. "Going from the Chantry to the Wardens will be like jumping from an iron pot to a copper one. Both remain on the fire."

"But not because both bow to our Orlesian foes?"

"We don't know that Orlais rules the Fereldan wardens. Fergus believes they have too much influence certainly." She glanced at Pippa, but she was talking to Delilah and paying her no attention. "No, I mean going from lyrium to…well the taint wardens take in to become what they are."

"Taint? No one lives if the darkspawn taint them. At least not long." Loghain whispered.

"Partly true." She looked at Loghain, brow furrowed and lips pursed. "I've read a lot about the wardens. They're very secretive, but much can be surmised from the histories and diaries." Especially if one has access to the library in Areth. Lys continued, "It's kept secret, but every recruit must go through an initiation. They drink a magical potion which gives those who survive it the power to fight the darkspawn without fear of taint." I need to tell him about the initiation so can find out if Alistair survives.

"Those who survive it?"

"Many don't. It's a poison. Some can resist it; others cannot. Eventually, after years, the poison affects even those who resisted it at first. Wardens then go to the Deep Roads to die. Their Calling, they name it."

"I've heard of that," Loghain muttered, recalling what little Maric had eventually told him of his trip into the Deep Roads..

Lys looked out onto the grounds. The first duel was about to begin. "He could be dead in a few weeks. At least as a templar he would have years. On the other hand, as a warden he'll be… if not happy… then less discontent."

"And perhaps I am wrong and he won't even compete. I only know that no one but Cailan and Duncan have seen him since he arrived in Denerim. And then only from afar. Either way he is lost to us. I only hope he is not found by Orlais."

"You speak of him as if he were a pawn, not a man." Lys hissed.

Loghain regarded her dispassionately. "He is a pawn Lys. He became one when Maric and then Cailan failed to acknowledge him. He's a bastard with royal Theirin blood. Ferelden needs to keep him away from Orlais, or any other power, and prevent him from breeding."

"Did you never care for him?" Lys spoke between clenched teeth.

"I care, first, for Ferelden." He turned his attention to the competition and did not speak again.

Lys stared at Loghain, biting her lower lip. This is the man who told us stories. Who apologized for taking him to Dragon's Peak. Was that all an act? What's changed?

Loghain finally returned her stare. He spoke dispassionately. "He'll be harder to track as a warden, but we will ensure he does not leave Ferelden."

Lys shivered, but did not ask how he would ensure that.

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

Lys' fascination with tourneys had ebbed as she grew older. She realized that many successful combatants never saw battle outside the tourney grounds. Being a successful tourneyer did not make one a formidable knight in battle. Nor did it make one a good officer of the guard, leading troops against bandits. Highever still held its Summerday Tourney, but Lys had not competed as she had once hoped to. Nor did she attend the Grand Tourneys in Cumberland, although the fairs held outside the Tourney grounds still held some allure.

The two-day Chantry Tourney would include only Elimination Duels. The Templars emphasized blade skills, so there would be no archery competition. All the competitors were initiates. Only two full templars would fight. On the second day they would duel the four semi-finalists providing them one last opportunity to show their mettle before they fought each other in the final bouts. On the first day, Sers Kalvin and Talrew sat on a bench below the Royal Box to view the competitions. The sixteen initiates, nine from Denerim and seven from the outlying monasteries, fought their duels throughout the day. The first round eliminated eight initiates.

After their whispered conversation at the Tourney's start Lys and Loghain had not spoken. The strained silence made her uncomfortable. Alistair had won through to the second round. She noticed Loghain lean forward when the templar in the battered armor walked onto the field.

Perhaps he does care a little.

Alistair barely won in the second round. When he did succeed in beating his opponent, he offered a hand to help him up. The opponent batted it aside. Lys realized Alistair must have made some cutting remark at the rejection when his opponent pushed him on the chest, then collected himself and stalked off the field.

"I'd love to know what he said," Loghain chuckled. "They should take those damned tin pots off after the bout ends."

Lys looked at Loghain. "Perhaps they don't want any resemblance to Cailan noticed."

"Good point, Lady Cousland." He stared at the initiate. "I do care, Lys," he said quietly. "About him, but more about Ferelden. I have always cared more about Ferelden, than about myself, my loved ones…I can't change that."

Lys nodded. "I suppose it's similar to a Cousland's duty. I've been fortunate enough never to have to make those hard choices."

"I hope you remain so fortunate, Lys." Loghain looked at the young woman opposing Alistair. Eryhn had taken her helmet off. "That young woman opposing him in the next round is a fine warrior. He'll have trouble with her."

"She's Highever born. I've seen her compete at home before she came to Denerim. She's skilled and quick."

"Have you fought her?"

"No. I never enter tourneys…well only once, as an archer. I bested some poor boy who had traveled from near West Hill to compete. I felt so guilty. I convinced the judges to give him the award, saying I had only competed to test my skills, not, as the Teyrn's daughter, to win. After that, Fergus did the same. I never competed again and he never took another purse."

"How old were you?"

She blinked. "Fourteen, I think. Why?"

"If you ever have to make a hard choice Lys, know that you will make the right one. The girl that did that will always chose the right path."

"I…thank you, Teyrn Loghain. I hope you're right."

The Tourney officials escorted Alistair, his next opponent, Ser Eryhn, and the other two semi-finalists to the area in front of the Royal Box. All the initiates removed their helmets and saluted, acknowledging the King, Queen, Warden-Commander, Arl, Grand Cleric and Knight-Commander. They sat on the bench next to the two templars. Knight-Commander Greagoir stood to speak.

"Thank you, Arl Kendalls for sponsoring this Tourney in the Denerim Tourney Grounds. The Chantry appreciates your support in allowing us to provide the Grey Wardens with a chance to increase their ranks." Greagoir nodded to the Arl and then to Duncan. "We thank King Cailan and Queen Anora for their support and attendance. It has been a thrilling day. We have our semi-finalists. Initiate Ser Eryhn, who recently received her knighthood; Initiate Alistair; Initiate Florian; and Initiate Diarmund. "

The initiates stood, saluted the Royal Box again, and then turned around to wave to the spectators.. They had removed their helmets to salute the Royal Box occupants and all but Alistair held them beneath their arms as they turned back to the crowd. Alistair put his back on.

"Was he instructed to do that?," Cailan asked Duncan.

"I don't think so, Your Majesty."

The Knight-Commander continued. "Today's bouts now come to their end. The Tourney will resume in the morning at Terce bells. Before the semi-final bouts, the initiates will fight Ser Kalvin of Denerim, who uses dual blades, and Ser Talrew of Lothering, who wields a great sword. Both Knights Templar will test the skills and endurance of the semi-finalists. After their bouts with the Knights Templar, the eliminations will continue until we have a winner."

9:29 Dragon 27 Justinian === Denerim Tourney Grounds

Alistair appeared the next morning better equipped in newer armor and wielding a better-balanced sword and shield. Arms Master Quenton had insisted he spend the last six weeks practicing in this armor and with these weapons. Today he insisted Alistair wear them. As a semi- finalist he had the honor of the templars to uphold. He should look the part, the Arms Master said when he objected.

The armor, sword and shield felt comfortable and familiar. Yesterday he had to fight in the ill-fitting, unfamiliar armor and with the lower quality weapons that the Knight-Captain had sent to his room. Today he would have the benefit of more familiar, better quality equipment. He hoped Arms Master Quenton would not get into trouble for providing it.

Eryhn looked at Alistair's equipment in surprise.

"Where did you steal that?"

"Steal? What? This armor? The Armory sprite left it in my room for me." He grinned. "My reward for getting to the third round I suppose."

"Armory sprite?"

"Of course. Haven't you heard of her? She sharpens weapons, cleans armor…you have to be on her good side. Leave her ribbons and shiny things. I thought everyone knew-

"-idiot." Eryhn snarled. "How did you make it this far?"

"Ah…well the sprite-"

"-shut up."

Alistair laughed. "Ah, you lack a sense of humor, my lady. The Highever folk I know had senses of humor. Are you sure you're from the Coastlands?"

"That's enough, initiate."

Alistair turned at the gruff voice. Ser Talrew stood in the doorway. "You won't win any matches with your wit." He looked Alistair up and down. "Your new weapons and armor may help though."

"I hope so, Ser Talrew. I find that if my sharp wit doesn't make me the champion my sword and shield will."

Ser Kalvin followed Ser Talrew into the tent at the end of the tourney grounds. "Your bravado only make you look a fool initiate."

Alistair stopped smiling. "We'll see when meet on the grounds, Ser Knights. You may defeat me, but not because I fail to face you and do my best. Success or failure will be mine, not my equipment's." He turned on his heel and left the tent to sit on the bench outside.

The two knights looked at each other and shrugged. Ser Eryhn glared at the tent flap. Initiates Diarmund and Florian wisely kept quiet.

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

Ser Eryhn fought first. She gave Ser Talrew a good fight, but fell to his strength and endurance. He wielded his great sword as if it weighed nothing. In Lothering he had battled many Chasind heretics in the Wilds as the templars sought their shamans. His legendary skill and endurance overcame the young knight's grace and speed. Ser Kalvin, with whom Ser Eryhn had often sparred, did not fare so well. Eryhn, after a long battle, defeated him.

Initiate Diarmund fought next. Fighting with dual blades, his reach and strength should have challenged Ser Talrew. Instead, he did not take advantage of the large templars slower moves with his great sword. He lacked the speed and agility one expected of a dual wielder. He fared even worse against Ser Kalvin.

"That templar is not quick enough to wield dual blades. He should use a sword and shield," Duncan murmured.

"I agree, Duncan. I'll mention it to him, I assure you, " the Knight Commander replied.

Initiate Florian, a great sword wielder, gave Ser Talrew a good fight, but eventually fell to the templars greater endurance. As tired as Florian was, however, he managed to defeat Ser Kalvin.

Loghain leaned close to Lys. "Fighting last is not to Alistair's benefit."

"I know. On the one hand, the two knights will be more tired. On the other, Ser Eryhn will be well rested when they face each other."

"I think Alistair may lack the endurance to get through three consecutive matches, even with a short rest before the final one."

"I don't know what to wish for. Neither is for the best, the wardens are only better than the alternative." Lys smiled, but turned her attention back to the field as the two Knights Templar and Alistair appeared.

Alistair did not fare well against the templars. He fell to the great sword of Ser Talrew after a valiant effort. He did better against the dual blades of Ser Kalvin, but Kalvin eventually bested Alistair, as the initiate's responses slowed. His aching muscles simply could not maintain the speedy defensive moves necessary to block all Kalvin's attacks. Again, he yielded gracefully in spite of the boos and hoots of the crowd.

Duncan noticed that the catcalls and derisive remarks originated in a single section of spectators. From there the hissing and boos spread. He felt sure someone from the Chantry had planted that group. Alistair's response impressed him. The boy might be a prankster and troublemaker, but he had the makings of a good fighter. His behavior towards his opponents was honorable. Master Quenton had kept him under control, albeit through isolation which was not possible in the wardens. With attention and discipline he believed he could make something of the boy. For Fiona's sake he would try.

A brief rest period followed Alistair's final bout with Kalvin. Then the semi-final bouts began. Alistiar faced Eryhn, who had a lengthy pause during the other initiates' bouts. Following them Florian would fight Diarmund. The Knight-Commander wanted the Tourney completed, the recruitment done and the grounds emptied well before the bells rang for Vespers.

Alistair tried to maintain his speed and power against Ser Eryhn, but his endurance simply was not up to two days of hard dueling. Every move was a step too slow. Ser Eryhn wore him down with small blows. Finally he stumbled as he stepped forward to bash. Eryhn, anticipating the move, stepped back. He overbalanced and fell.

"Yield," Ser Eryhn yelled.

"I yield," Alistair said.

He stood as she walked away to sit on the bench beneath the Royal box. Shoulder slumped for the first time, he hesitated before following her. I should just leave the field. There's no hope the wardens will take the loser. The he took a deep breath, squared his shoulders and walked to the bench. Boos followed him. He sat at the end of bench, watching Florian and Diarmund take the field.

Diarmund's lack of speed and agility again proved his downfall. Florian repeated his defeat of a dual wielding opponent.

After another half turn of the glass, Ser Eryhn and Initiate Florian returned to the grounds for the final bout. Again, Ser Eryhn's agility, grace and skill allowed her to win through. She knew how to take advantage of the great sword wielder's slower moves.

Greagoir motioned them forward. They saluted the king and queen, then stood before Duncan.

"Ser Eryhn, I offer you a place in the Grey Wardens. You have shown great skill and honor. Will you accept?"

"I do accept, Warden-Commander." Ser Eryhn smiled triumphantly raising her hands and turning to face the cheering crowd.

Alistair stood quietly to the side next to Initiate Diarmund, his helmet under his arm watching Eryhn and Florian. He glanced up to find his brother watching him. He nodded, then turned to walk away.

"Initiate Alistair." Duncan's words brought him up short and he turned to face the warden commander. Maker, what now. I lost. Just let me go back to the armory.

"Initiate Alistair, although you did not win you fought well and showed grace in defeat. I know your capabilities. I offer you a place in the Grey Wardens. Will you accept?"

"Me? I-"

"I will not allow this." Grand Cleric Elemena came to her feet projecting her opposition in her best pulpit voice.

"The agreement was for two recruits of my choosing, Your Grace." Duncan spoke calmly.

"This initiate will not be taken. I forbid it."

"Then you leave me no choice. Initiate Alistair I conscript you into the Grey Wardens. You will accompany me-"

"-NO! I. Will. Not. Allow. It! He is the Chantry's! Choose one of the others."

"I will allow it." Cailan spoke loudly for all to hear. "Your Grace, you cannot oppose a conscription. The Chantry recognizes the Grey Wardens right to conscription just as the Crown of every nation in Thedas does. You cannot deny it."

"I can and I will," she countered her face flushed with anger.

Knight-Commander Greagoir had walked to the other side of the box to stand beside the Grand Cleric. "Your Grace, the King is correct," he whispered. "We cannot oppose a conscription. The Divine and the Knight-Vigilant both recognize its use."

Elemena stared at Greagoir.

"Your Grace," Greagoir continued quietly, "Please, compose yourself. We cannot oppose this."

Elemena looked at the King and Queen, expecting smirks. She saw two serious faces.

Greagoir continued. "Joining the Wardens is dangerous, Your Grace."

She looked at Greagoir, understanding his meaning. "It is, Knight-Commander. Perhaps it's for the best." Face still red, she nodded at Duncan and said no more.

Alistair simply stood in place and stared at the occupants of the Royal Box. He recognized the King and Queen, of course. He had met Duncan and the Knight-Commander at Kinloch Hold. Once Greagoir moved to the Grand Cleric's side, he saw Loghain who nodded to him. Several young woman stood behind Duncan, Cailan and Anora. He thought the one next to Loghain was Lys, but she wore a headpiece on her intricately braided dark hair and a veil covered her face. It must be. He looked away.

Duncan had come down the steps to ground level. He stood facing the Royal Box between the two recruits motioning for them to bow once again. Then he turned them to face the cheers of the crowd again and the moment passed. Duncan ushered his recruits off the field and the Tourney ended.

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

Lys stood in her place watching Alistair walk away. Delilah nudged her.

"We're leaving."

"I'll be along. Go ahead without me." Lys murmured.

Delilah raised her eyebrows and started to object, but Pippa nodded.

"It's alright, Del, let her stay a moment with the Teyrn."

Delilah looked confusedly between the two friends.

"Kai, stay with her?"

"Of course, My Lady."

"He's lost to us, Lys, " Loghain said once the crowd cleared. "We failed to act in time. I can only hope this is the right choice."

"Lost? In the wardens we can see him. He's not locked away any longer."

"Might as well be. The warden compound is not open to everyone. Best case, the boy remains in Ferelden. Worst case, he's sent to Montsimmard. Either way, he'll see it as an honorable escape and embrace it. He'll do as they tell him. He's not the boy you knew.'"

Loghain stared at the tent where Duncan had taken his recruits.

Lys had never seen him look so…old. Old, bitter and angry.

Kai touched her shoulder. "Should we go, My Lady?"

Loghain turned at the sound of Kai's voice. "You should go, Lady Cousland. There's nothing to see here. Remember the boy we knew, not the warden we saw here today."

Lys opened her mouth, but realized she had no retort. She turned and followed Kai out of the box.

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

Lys had no duties that evening and felt a need to be alone. Kai went to her own room to read. Lys sat staring out her window. A knock sounded. She sighed and got up.

"I'll answer, Kai."

Queen Anora stood in the doorway when she opened the door. "Your Majesty." Lys hesitated, confused. "Please, come in."

Anora slipped past Lys and walked over to the common room window. "I thought perhaps we should talk." She turned to face Lys. "About Alistair."

"What is there to say?"

"Our reasons. I feel there are things you haven't been told, Lys."

"I'm sorry, Your Majesty, I forget my manners. Kai-"

"Lys, stop. I don't need refreshments. For tonight, here, it's Anora. Your friend."

Kai stood in her doorway.

"Kai, you may listen if you like. I think you and Lys have few secrets, yes?"

Kai nodded. She seated herself on the floor, leaning on Sherpa. Lys sat in her chair by the window. Anora took to the matching chair opposite her.

"You know Father tried to take him from Dragon's Peak last year, but he had already been taken away."

"Yes. Mum wrote. Then Fergus told me in more detail. About that and the attack on Teyrn Loghain."

"Did Eleanor tell you Grand Cleric Elemena refuses to honor King Maric's agreement to acknowledge him?"

"No, but the Teyrn mentioned it today. That's why Teyrn Loghain decided to rescue him, isn't it?"

"Yes. Father, Cailan and Fergus made that plan to rescue him. You know, then, that the Chantry holds him for Orlais?"

"Not exactly. I just knew they say he misbehaved and that he works in the Armory as punishment."

"He does. The Grand Cleric keeps him because they plan to send him away eventually. Well, in truth, fairly soon we think. Our sources tell us they brought him here to break him. He was too successful, too well liked at the Peak. Revered Mother Hilda tried to convince Grand Cleric Elemena to allow him to be a brother. She spoke up for him once too often, apparently.

"When they brought him here, they told him that he caused the disgrace and punishment of his friends at Dragon's Peak. They threatened him with the punishment of those around him here if he did not obey. Apparently he's been quite tractable of late. They considered him ready to go to Orlais and fulfill the Empress's plans for him. We had to act. This seemed the best plan."

"Who is they, Your…Anora?"

"We believe Empress Celene working with the Knight Vigilant. The Divine can be easily led, it seems. Orders may come from her, but she may not understand their true purpose."

"You have no proof?"

"No. Suspicions. What Cailan has observed on his trips. Reports from some operatives. We had no other plan, so Cailan spoke with Duncan at Ostagar. He explained Alistair's parentage. Duncan agreed to recruit him."

Lys' head spun a bit. Why would they tell Duncan when he already knows? They must not know about Alistair's mother or Duncan's part in his birth. But Loghain knows. Maker all these secrets. Loghain must think Duncan planned this all along. And Fiona – an Orlesian elf, a mage and a Grey Warden. And Maric's trip with her. No wonder Loghain suspects the wardens.

"Your father went along with this?"

"No. That is Cailan didn't tell him first, although I think he suspected. We spoke before I came here to you. He thinks Alistair will fall under Orlesian control with the Wardens. That he'll eventually be sent there to serve. He's afraid that the wardens will prove more successful in seducing Alistair to the Orlesian viewpoint. He made his views quite clear when Cailan and I returned from the Tourney this afternoon. He didn't say anything to you today?"

"He said Alistair was lost to us. He told me to remember the boy I knew, not the warden."

Anora nodded. "Unlike the Templars, Father believes Alistair will see the Wardens' cause as just."

"He would be correct. It is a most just cause."

"Is that true? Cailan says they can sense darkspawn and are ferocious fighters, which helps in battle, but anyone can kill darkspawn."

Lys cocked her head. "That's true. It's the Archdemon who leads a Blight that must be killed by a warden. At least my reading of their history implies this. Nothing actually states that. I suppose I might be wrong."

"Well, there's no Blight, so that's moot."

"Your father has a point, I'm afraid. Duncan may take direction from Orlais, whether he knows it or not, Fergus says. He may think it natural that orders come through Montsimmard from Weisshaupt, but it's not. All the other outposts received orders directly. Weisshaupt, if they listen to Orlais, may think Ferelden is still subservient to Orlais.

"I don't think the First Warden considers Ferelden important. If he did, he would have remedied King Arland's banishment much sooner. Why didn't Orlais re-establish a warden post here while they ruled? Afterall, it was Orlais who stepped in to set up the wardens here after King Maric lifted the bann. Nothing came directly from Weisshaupt." Except Duncan, Fiona and Alistair.

"You make good arguments. At least they're based in fact, not emotion."

"Hrothgar's Wrath, our mercenary company, works closely with the Nevarran wardens. I've gone on several mission with them. The Nevarrans have a close relationship with the Marcher Wardens in Ansburg and a cordial one with Weisshaupt and the Anders. They've tried to establish a similar relationship with Ferelden and failed. Both the former Warden-Commander, who was also Orlesian, and Duncan have declined any exchange of wardens or joint exercises. Duncan declined the same offer from Ansburg. Fergus found them strangely remote when he spent time with Maric's Shield in Ostagar. They refused joint patrols with the Shield,

"I hadn't realized the difference. It's disturbing. Perhaps Father has some points."

"Ferelden wardens only cooperate with Orlais. Your father and King Cailan experienced this. It's as if they consider themselves an extension of the Orlesian wardens and not a separate Fereldan group, despite Duncan's title of Warden-Commander."

"After their stay in Ostagar, Father and Cailan have been at odds over the wardens. More than before." Anora frowned and pinched the bridge of her nose. "Cailan still spends hours at the compound, sparring and talking with the wardens. He's done that since he was a child."

"So he will see Alistair?"

"Well, that's also odd. No. The Warden-Commander asked him not to visit while Alistair was there. He said it would disrupt Alistair's adjustment to the wardens."

"And Cailan agreed?"

"Yes. He's not happy about it. He looked forward to seeing Alistair again." Anora pursed her lips. "I think it's for the best."

"Because he didn't act sooner? Alistair might not receive him well."

"Yes. Cailan regrets it all now, but he might not take it well if Alistair gets angry. Cailan is angry with himself for not acknowledging Alistair sooner. He's even had words with Eamon over it. He and Eamon have been arguing almost as much as he and father."

"Well, Arl Guerrin losing influence can only be a good thing. He's in Redcliffe until the Landsmeet isn't he."

"Yes. He and Cailan argued on the way home from Orlais on board the Calenhad. Eamon seems to isolate himself more and more, of late. Father does too. He's been closeting himself with Howe of all people. The two of them see Orlesians behind every bush. I have to wonder if Howe uses Father's Orlesian obsession to manipulate him."

Kai had taken the pot heating by the small fire and made tea as Lys and Anora talked. Anora sipped from the cup Kai handed to her.

"I've missed our talks, Lys. We need to be formal now that you are my Lady, but I feel closer to you than to Delilah and even Pippa."

"I'm…honored, Anora. I," Lys smiled, "…it's not a friendship I would have envisioned a few years ago."

Anora laughed. "Nor me. More fools us. Perhaps, once you're been here for a few months, we can make time to talk without Pippa or Del becoming…concerned."

"Would they? Pippa wouldn't be jealous. Delilah…."

"Yes, Delilah. It's hard to say how much gets back to Arl Howe." She sipped again. "I did want you to understand what we did and why."

"Thank you. It helps." Lys sipped her tea.

Both women seemed reluctant to end the conversation.

"Cailan certainly seemed happy to see Elin when he returned last week." Lys chuckled. "It's fun to see the boys I knew become doting fathers. Oren can wrap Fergus around his finger. He'd be a spoiled terror if Oriana allowed it."

"Ah," Anora smiled. "Cailan adores her, but I fear she will get her way with him as well. I thought he would want a son, but he's thrilled with a daughter. He's already talking about training her, of course. She's to be a warrior princess he says. The best of both of us. He's quite amazing with her and she adores him. I think she may be the only person he truly loves."

"Anora…."

"It's fine. It's probably true for me as well. Almost. Of course I love father, but we disagree too much of late. And I love Cailan, but more as a friend."

Fergus' name hung unspoken between them.

"He's not Cailan, Lys, and I would never be untrue to Cailan, him or myself."

"I know, Anora."

"It could have worked you know. You could have taken Highever and we could have been together in Gwaren."

Lys' head snapped up from her cup, as tea splashed over the edge. "What!"

Anora shrugged. "I think about it sometimes. What ifs…. You and Alistair in Highever and…well it would have left Cailan without a queen, but I'm sure that could have been worked out."

Lys giggled.

"What?"

"Habren."

"Oh Maker, I wouldn't do that to him. You saw the wedding."

"I told you she would love that yellow silk. She looked sick."

"That might be Vaughan and not the dress."

Lys spit her tea again. "Anora! Of course it's true about Vaughan, he's vile. Habren has always been strange too. They may be a match made in the Void."

Anora grinned. "She will love being Arlessa and she will bankrupt the Arling in no time. Perhaps then I can step in and get more control of how Denerim is ruled."

"Cousin Bryland must be thrilled to have her off his books."

"Well, the wedding made for an interesting Summerday."

The both laughed.

"Delilah would have made a good wife for Cailan. She's a lovely girl when she's not around her father. I would enjoy her as a friend, but she will tell her father everything." Anora mused.

"And Pippa?"

"Not for Cailan. She's too kind. Delilah has hidden strength. She would not survive as Howe's daughter if she didn't. Pippa, she's shrewd, organized and directs others within the guidelines provided to her. I never fear indiscretions, but I'm not sure she would withstand a crisis. She's a follower, I suppose, not a leader."

Lys frowned as she noted Kai nodding. "You agree?" she said to Kai.

"Yes. I mean, I can see Lady Philippa speaking up for her principles, but she's not a fighter. She won't bring others along with her, as you would."

"Me?"

"Of course, you. Why do you think I trail after you everywhere?"

Lys gave her sidelong look. "Because you like me?"

"Well, there's that and of course you pay me," she grinned, "but mostly because I trust you to make the right choices and do the right thing. With my good advice of course."

Anora chuckled. "I think Kai is right. What I meant regarding Cailan is that Pippa wouldn't stand up to him. Not that I do it very well…or perhaps too well. I actually think Delilah might do it better. She's gently persuasive. I push. It's all foolish speculation anyway."

"Of course, you overlooked the other obvious wife."

"You?"

Lys shrugged. "I'm the other Teyrn's daughter, after all.'

"You would have been the best choice," Anora rubbed her brow, "you have a way with Theirin men, I'll admit. Maric loved you. Alistair…. Even Cailan enjoyed your company and would listen to you, although he spent more time with Fergus. You manage a balanced reaction to the Theirin charm. It doesn't put you on the defensive or overwhelm you. You and Father could talk back to King Maric as no one else could. Fergus and you can reason with Cailan without sending him off in the opposite direction as Father and I do."

"And Alistair?"

"Oh, Alistair has his share of the Theirin charm. I suspect it's how he's survived. He makes friends easily. Part of his charm is that he doesn't realize he has it." Anora smiled as she stared into the fire. "Did I ever tell you how he won me over?"

"No."

"I went to the Peak with Father fully expecting to dislike this young Theirin bastard who had so much of father's attention. I expected him to be a rude, brutish version of Cailan. Instead I met this lovely, polite boy who carried on intelligent conversations with me and, particularly, my father and who offered to draw for me." Anora sat silently for a long time before she continued. "If father could have requested a boy for a son, it would have been Alistair. He loved talking strategy and tactics and weapons with Father. I heard more Rebellion stories when we visited Alistair. Father opened up with him as he did with no one else except Maric. I don't have to tell you how he could melt your heart with a smile. Father always said he was more like Maric than Cailan. He credited Alistair with more common sense and intelligence than either. He claims Alistair had an edge to his wit that neither Maric or Cailan had. I miss visiting him." Anora looked up at Lys brushing her cheeks. "Lys, I'm sorry I didn't mean to upset you."

Lys sniffed, then smiled. "It's fine. I just haven't heard anyone describe him so well in a long time. You know your father. It's always 'he has a grasp of tactics', 'we sparred and he beat me' or 'he's doing well'. He could be describing anyone. And Alistair's letters…well they left everything to the imagination. I…we were children. It's been so long. I've imagined what he must be like now. Then seeing him today, he was a stranger. His personality didn't show. The person you describe is the person I knew. It's comforting really."

Anora sighed in relief. "I didn't think, Lys."

"No, I should thank you. It's good to know he's not changed that much. I do have a request, Anora. The initiation for the wardens can be dangerous. Could you find out if he makes it?"

"Dangerous? Do you mean-"

"-I mean he could die. I told Teyrn Loghain at the Tourney, but I didn't ask him to tell me if Alistair survives. I'd like to know."

"Of course. Lys-"

"-I'm not being dramatic, Anora. I read a lot about the wardens. I met some on a trip we took in Nevarra and was intrigued. I found out that they have a lot of secrets, but the danger of the Joining, as they call the initiation, is pretty clear in the old records."

"I didn't know."

"You should ask Cailan if he knows. He should. The wardens say that they tell the rulers of a country many, if not all, of their secrets to encourage them to cooperate with recruitment. If they're not telling Cailan its further proof that they consider the Ferelden Wardens an offshoot of Orlais and not an independent group."

Anora bit her lip. "I don't think Cailan knows. He wanted to save Alistair from the Chantry. Sending him to die…I don't think that's what he intended." Anora frowned. "Perhaps that's why Duncan doesn't want Cailan to see him. And Father…he'll be furious with Cailan, Duncan, everyone."

"He does think Alistair would choose Orlais." Lys sighed.

"He thinks Alistair has lost all hope and will do as he's told, even if that means he goes to Orlais and does the Empress's bidding."

"That's…crazy. Alistair…but then we don't know do we? Maybe he has changed that much."

"Perhaps Fergus could see him. He's Cailan's liaison with the wardens. It would be natural for him to meet the new recruits. Perhaps you could go too."

"No. No, I think we've both said our goodbyes. It's better if I don't."

"Sometimes I think you're only adult in the country."

Lys laughed. "Nineteen going on sixty. I get closer to my true age every name day."

A/N: Thank you for reading. Please review, favorite, subscribe and/or follow. I welcome comments, encouragement, suggestions and critiques. I hope you continue to read and enjoy.

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,Mike3207, caraine, Eastern Violet and SnowHelm. I appreciate the continuing thoughtful feedback. Knowing you enjoy the story inspires me.