My muse took a very unexpected and uwelcome vacation - so it has taken much longer than I imagine to tweak this chapter for posting! I am really sorry!
This chapter contains quite a bit of AU - I think you will enjoy it, though!
Lisa - I am so amazingly thankful every day for having been given a friend such as you! Love you always!
Thanks to everyone who has read and favorited this story!
To the awesome "We Hate Howe Club" and my repeat reviewers: voltagelisa, Lavinia Luscious, zevgirl, Miltonia, CCBug, sandradee27, Nithu, Nanicane, WitchWeaver,
tgail73, AlexSavard, Constantano, Steve 69, Sharem, Deliciously Weird, Sarkule, Kira Kyuuketsuki, dragonzap93, naomis8329, thnewandrew and turianlover: You make the journey a true joy!
Bioware owns all!
Fergus entered the dining room, pleased to see that he was the first to arrive. He was still processing his confrontation with Zeva; and had it not been for the fact that Eamon needed this time with friends, he would have foregone the entire meal and remained alone in his room.
"I am not one to say 'I told you so'," Leliana said quietly as she stepped through the door and approached the table, "and I certainly will not do so now. However, the look on your face tells me you have spoken to your sister and that the conversation did not go as you would have wished." Smiling gently, she sat in the chair next to the Teyrn and placed a comforting hand on his forearm.
"That is putting it very lightly, I am afraid," he admitted, shaking his head sadly. "She told me in no uncertain terms that she will tolerate no interference on my part regarding her relationship with the Warden Commander. In fact, she went so far as to say that I would answer to her if I made him unhappy in any way."
Turning to the bard, he gazed into her eyes; the hurt evident in his expression. "I don't understand, Leli," he said quietly. "I didn't even get the chance to say anything. One moment she was my Zee Zee, and the next she was a complete stranger to me. What has happened to her?"
"Rendon Howe happened, Fergus," Leliana explained. "He destroyed her innocence when he murdered your family. It was only sheer strength of will, and the love and support of her companions that kept her from falling apart. That strength is what you witnessed today. Zeva will never again allow anyone to separate her from those she loves; Duncan, in particular."
"I am the head of the Cousland family now, Leli," he replied irritably. "It is my job to look out for my sister's best interests, and I will do just that; regardless of how she sees matters."
Leliana's joyous laughter floated from the dining hall; greeting the rest of the dinner guests. "Good luck with that, Fergus," she said, reaching for the nearest wine glass and taking a sip. "I am most anxious to see how successful you are with that approach."
"As are we all," Zevran said as he stepped into the room; Oghren at his side. "Surely your trip with us this afternoon gave you some insight into your beautiful sister's current disposition? She isn't a woman to allow anyone to make her decisions for her."
"Yet she seems to defer to you rather frequently," Fergus said, rising from the table. "And I am quite anxious to learn why that is the case. Perhaps you would care to tell me."
"Fergus…" Leliana began cautiously.
Her warning ceased when Fergus shook his head vehemently at her. "No, Leli," he spat, his eyes never leaving Zevran's. "I will not remain silent like some disobedient child sent to his room. She may have warned me off of the Warden Commander, but she said nothing about this one. And I will know how a man sent to kidnap Zeva and give her to Rendon Howe came to stand so close at her side."
"Then I suggest you ask the lady, herself," Zevran said, his face reflecting the anger in his tone. "For I have no intention of sharing the details of my relationship with Zeva. Such intimacies should remain between the parties involved, don't you think?"
"You bastard…" Fergus began as he moved toward Zevran; his eyes glittering dangerously.
"So wonderful to see everyone getting along – isn't it, my dear?" Eamon said as he escorted Zeva into the dining hall. The rest of the party entered behind the duo; Duncan and Teagan maintaining the greatest possible distance from each other.
Fergus looked at his sister; his heart sinking a bit lower in his chest as he beheld the anger in her eyes. Even more painful was the way those same blue pools softened when they fell upon the assassin. Leliana gently pulled him back down into his seat; her smile filled with compassion and understanding.
Eamon sat at the head of the table and motioned for the Wardens to sit at his side. Duncan pulled out Zeva's chair, pushing her to the table before taking his own seat.
"To friends and loved ones," Eamon said, raising his glass for a toast. "May we never forget what we are fighting for."
"I'll drink to that," Duncan said as he lifted his glass in return. Under the table, he slid his hand over Zeva's and squeezed it gently.
Dinner passed amiably. Teagan was seated directly across from Zeva, and she noticed that he never once touched his wine glass. He was obviously determined not to repeat his former mistakes, for which she was eternally grateful. The lack of inebriation would make their upcoming conversation far less dangerous.
o~~~~~~~~o
After everyone had eaten, Eamon ushered the Wardens, Teagan and Fergus into his private study for a strategy meeting. As the group sat before a roaring fireplace, Eamon began to lay out his plans.
"Alistair tells me that you have one more treaty to arrange," the elder statesman said as he handed a glass of Orlesian brandy to Duncan. "I believe he said the Dalish elves?"
"That is correct," Duncan replied, taking the sifter from his host. "We think that our best chance of finding a Dalish tribe is to enter the Brecilian Forest, and we need to move quickly if we are to succeed. However, Orzammar took its toll on both Zeva and I and we could use a few days rest before continuing on. I hope that won't be a problem."
Eamon's laugh was music to Zeva's ears. She had always been so fond of him; and though she projected a tough exterior during his illness for Alistair's sake, she had been secretly terrified that he would never recover. Knowing that he would be around to help them in their fight against Loghain gave her a feeling of strength that she had long been missing.
"I'll have you know that this young woman spent countless months here as a teenager," Eamon replied, winking at Zeva. "Redcliffe is her home as much as it is mine and Teagan's; especially given the recent loss of her family. So if she needs to stay here and recover, I will see that she has the best possible care."
"I appreciate everyone's concern," Zeva said, smiling broadly at the Arl, "but my recovery will have to wait. I have a promise to keep and I need to handle it as soon as possible. A life depends on it."
"What?" Duncan asked, a frown creasing his brow. "What promise? Whose life?" It only took a moment for him to realize what she was talking about; and when he did, his fury could not be contained.
"Tell me you are not thinking of going to the Wilds right now?" he spat as he rose from the settee and began pacing the room. "Maker, Zeva! You just spent weeks traipsing around the Deep Roads; getting sicker and sicker by the day. You are physically and emotionally exhausted! You cannot expect to fight that witch right now; especially since we cannot even be sure that Morrigan is telling the truth about her!"
Alistair's gaze shot to Zeva. As he hadn't journeyed with her to Orzammar, he wasn't there when she explained Morrigan's dilemma to the rest of the party. "The witch?" he asked, his gaze switching between his fellow Wardens. "Do you mean Flemeth? Why would we be fighting her?"
Zeva moved to Alistair's side, grateful for any distraction from Duncan's anger. "We found Flemeth's grimoire in the Circle Tower when we were there," she began. "I can't go into the details at this moment, but I will tell you that she has plans to hurt Morrigan. She needs our help, Alistair, and I will not leave her open to attack from that monster."
Fergus had remained silent for the entire conversation; realizing that he shouldn't interfere in Warden business. However, at the mention of unnecessary danger to his sister, he could no longer keep quiet. "Zeva," he began, moving to her side, "if the Warden Commander doesn't think you are ready to deal with this woman, whoever she is, than maybe you should listen to him."
The look in her eyes when she spun toward him was an immediate indicator of his mistake. "You are kidding me, right?" she asked, stepping up to him and crossing her arms over her chest. "Not even five hours ago you were ready to attack him over his relationship with me. Now, suddenly, when it suits your purposes, you are best friends. I don't think so!"
Teagan and Eamon exchanged concerned glances. The last thing anyone needed was a Cousland family explosion. "Zeva," Eamon said calmly, drawing her attention from her brother, "is there anything I can do to help you? I wouldn't want to see you fight this witch before you are ready. Perhaps I could send some of my men with you as additional support."
Zeva drew in a deep breath, clearing the anger from her eyes. Her smile was genuine as she returned to Eamon's side. "Thank you for your offer, Eamon," she said, "but we do not know what Loghain might do if he has discovered that his poison didn't kill you. You need your men here. I have companions that I know will be willing to fight at my side and I will take them with me."
Duncan felt the comment like a slap to the face. He knew who she was speaking of and the thought of it twisted his stomach…
Unwilling to be upstaged once again by the assassin, Duncan quickly swallowed his anger and took Zeva's hand in his own. "Of course you do, love," he said softly. "I will fight with you; and I am sure the others will, as well. I simply want you to take at least one day to recover. That isn't too much to ask, is it?"
"No, it isn't," she replied, embarrassed by her outburst. She leaned up and planted a light kiss on his lips. "I am sorry to have been so short tempered. I am obviously more worn down than I realized."
"Then I think you should get some sleep," Teagan said, smiling softly at her. "We can speak in the morning, if that will work for you?"
His heart leapt when she returned his smile. "That would be perfect," she said. "If you'll excuse me, gentleman, I think I will retire for the night. I promise to be less prickly at breakfast."
"You? Friendly in the morning?" Fergus asked, chuckling softly at his sister. "That would be a first."
To the Teyrn's immense surprise and delight, his sister turned and stuck her tongue out at him. "Well, then," she joked, "there will be no 'good morning' hugs for you!"
Leaning down, she placed a kiss on Eamon's cheek. "Good night, Eamon," she said happily. "Thank you so much for everything."
"Anything for you, Zeva," Eamon said, placing a hand on her arm. "Goodnight."
o~~~~~~~~o
In the heart of the Wilds, a lone shack remains standing; untouched by the darkspawn that have overrun the land. It's as if they know that death awaits them, should they come too close.
Inside, the witch gazes into her mirror and smiles. Though she speaks softly, the power of her words can be felt for miles around.
"So it begins…"
o~~~~~~~~o
Zeva stepped into Eamon's study, her heartbeat pounding in her chest. She knew that this conversation was necessary; but despite the mistakes he'd made, she didn't like the idea of hurting Teagan.
Teagan watched her enter the room, his desire for her building with each step she took. He longed to close the distance between them and pull her into his arms; once more claiming what he knew in his heart to be his. He knew such actions would only push her further away, however. If he truly wanted to win Zeva's heart, he would have to move cautiously. Smiling softly, he rose and indicated the chair next to his own.
"Good morning, Zeva," he said jovially, pouring a cup of tea and handing it to her. "Did you sleep well?"
"Yes, thank you," she replied, taking the mug and sitting down in the chair. "I honestly didn't realize how exhausted I was until my head hit the pillow." The smile on her face was only partially for the Bann. Sleep hadn't come as quickly as she led him to believe. She'd spent a great deal of the night 'apologizing' to Duncan for leaving him before dinner. She was quite sure the fresh bite marks would take days to heal…
Teagan shifted nervously in his chair. He had so much he wanted to say; but every time he tried to begin, the words simply wouldn't come out.
"I feel perfectly horrible," Zeva began, drawing his attention from his own unease. "I arrived yesterday and I still haven't thanked you for taking care of Fergus. I cannot tell you how much it means to me to know that he is safe once again; and I have no doubt that you are responsible for his amazing recovery. Please forgive me for my rude behavior."
It took Teagan a few moments to respond. He hadn't planned on an apology from Zeva. He was the one who should be apologizing, not her.
"Zeva," he replied, his hands aching with the need to touch her, "there is no need for you to apologize. Fergus is my oldest and dearest friend. I love him as I do my own brother, and it was my pleasure to be able to take care of him." He chuckled softly, thinking of the time he'd spent with Fergus since he'd been found on the castle grounds. "Besides, Kinnon is the true hero. He has been nothing less than a miracle for this family."
"Don't let him hear you say that," Zeva joked, her initial anxiety ebbing away. "First Enchanter Irving will be extremely cross with me if his mage returns with an uncontrollable ego problem."
Though it would have been easier for them both to continue skirting the matter at hand, Teagan knew the time had come for their true conversation to begin. "I… wanted to tell you how very sorry I am for my rash behavior the last time you were here," he began, his eyes downcast to keep Zeva from seeing the pain that lingered there. "There is no excuse for the way I acted toward you, or the things I said. I know I don't deserve your forgiveness, but I still hope that I might receive it."
"Teagan," Zeva replied, "neither of us can be exactly proud of our behavior on that particular night. My own comments were cruel, to say the least. If I am to except your apology, I must ask that you accept mine, as well."
No longer able to resist his need to be near her, Teagan dropped to the ground before Zeva, the emotions in his heart evident on his face. "I love you, Zeva, with everything that I am," he confessed, gently running his fingers over her cheek. "I have loved you for so long that I don't know how I will ever be able to live without you. Please give me a chance to show you how perfect we could be together."
Zeva caressed his face, tears building in her eyes. "I am so sorry for everything I have done to hurt you, Teagan," she said sadly. "You deserve someone who can return the abundance of love that you have to give. I cannot be that person. I love Duncan and that isn't going to change, no matter how much you may wish it."
"But why, Zeva?" he asked, holding her hand tight to his cheek. "Why him? He can't possibly love you as much as I do. He hasn't known you as I have; hasn't watched you grow into the amazing woman you are today. The history we have together is something that he can never share with you."
Carefully extricating herself from his embrace, Zeva stood and approached the fireplace; gazing into the burning embers. "I can't explain to you why I love Duncan, Teagan," she said. "I only know that I do. We may not have a history together; but he is my future, and I will not leave his side."
Turning back to him, she sighed heavily; tears slowly falling from her eyes. "We have much to do if we are to save this land from Loghain and the Blight, and it will require us to work closely together. I want the time I spend with you to be filled with the friendship we have always known; not the animosity that has recently developed between us. However, I will understand if that isn't possible for you."
Teagan approached her slowly and took her in his arms, wiping the tears from her cheeks with a shaking hand. "I have missed your friendship, as well, my beautiful Zeva," he began, "and it has broken my heart to be estranged from you. I despise the very idea of seeing you with Duncan; but if this is how it must be in order to remain at your side, I will accept it – for now. That doesn't mean that I intend to give up on winning you for my own. I know that you will eventually return to my arms; and when that day comes, I will be waiting."
Running his hand through her hair, Teagan gently brought Zeva's lips to his; the kiss filled with all the love that he would never deny. Zeva allowed it, knowing that he needed this moment to say goodbye to her in his own way. When their lips parted he quickly turned away, staring into the firelight. When he spoke, his voice was broken and shaky.
"I am glad that we were able to clear the air, Zeva," he whispered. "It will make things easier for everyone. Now, if you don't mind, I think I need some time alone before breakfast."
"Of course, Teagan," she said, stepping to the study door and opening it. "I will see you there." She glanced back one last time before exiting; guilt rushing through her as she saw his shoulders begin to shake.
She was so consumed with her own thoughts that she didn't see the study door open once more behind her, or the shadowy figure that stepped through it. The beautiful Warden had insisted that she be allowed to handle the Bann on her own, but when was Zevran Arainai ever one to listen to an order?
o~~~~~~~~o
"We cannot defeat the Blight with a divided country," Eamon announced to the Wardens' party as they sat around the dining table. The breakfast conversation had been dominated by Loghain and the atrocities he'd committed since Ostagar. Now that the actual eating was done, the time for planning had arrived.
"I agree," Duncan said, leaning forward in his chair. "So, our next move would seem to be removing Loghain from the throne. I would imagine you already have an idea on how to do that?" As he spoke to Eamon, his eyes flashed to Alistair. The Arl caught the look and nodded in agreement.
"I see we are thinking the same, Warden Commander," Eamon said, smiling broadly at Duncan. "I have thought long and hard about this, and I believe our best chance of success against Loghain would be to offer a new ruler to the nobility at a Landsmeet. The people need a king who will look after their interests and protect them from the darkspawn attack. You and I both know that Loghain is not that man. Luckily, we have a true heir in our midst to offer to the noble families."
Alistair looked around the table, noticing that all eyes were upon him. As realization set in, his mouth fell open and he began shaking his head. "Oh no, you don't!" he exclaimed, glaring at Eamon furiously. "I know what you are thinking and it is never going to happen!"
"Alistair, please," Duncan began, smiling warmly at his fellow Warden. "Just listen to what the Arl has to say before you make any hasty decisions."
"Hasty decisions?" he said angrily. "You inform me over breakfast that you suddenly want me to become a candidate for king and you call my decisions hasty? I think you've all lost your minds! I am no king! I have been told since I was only a child that I was the illegitimate bastard and would never get anywhere near the throne! And you know what? I am perfectly fine with that!"
The frustrated Warden rose from the table and began pacing the room. "I am a Grey Warden and nothing more!" he declared, slamming his hand onto the table. "I know nothing about politics or ruling a kingdom. Maker, I don't even like leading the party! How am I supposed to lead an entire nation?"
"Alistair, Ferelden needs you," Eamon said calmly, trying to diffuse the young man's anger. "In a very short time, we will be forced to defend this country against an enormous horde of darkspawn. Our only chance of success is to unite the land behind one leader; someone that the people can put their faith in. With everything that has happened, do you truly believe Loghain can be that person?"
Zeva watched carefully as her friend's shoulders slumped and he released a heavy sigh of defeat. "Of course not, Eamon," he said quietly. "You know I do not want that. Loghain murdered his king, and he has to be made to pay for that. But surely there is some other way; one that doesn't include me as king?"
"I am afraid not," Eamon said, shaking his head sadly. "I have thought of nothing but this since I returned from the Fade. I can think of no other way to remove Loghain from power. We must defeat him fairly in a Landsmeet, and the only way to insure that victory is to give the people a Theirin ruler."
"He is right, Alistair," Duncan said. "I see no other answer. I know you don't like this, but it's not about what you want right now. It's about what is best for all involved."
Alistair spun in Duncan's direction, and the fury in his eyes took everyone by surprise. "And what would you know about sacrificing what you want for the benefit of others?" he spat. "It seems to me that you have gotten everything that you want, even if you aren't worthy of it!" Without another word, he turned and stormed from the room; leaving a silent and stunned table of companions behind him.
After several seconds, Zeva rose from the table and headed for the door. "Zeva?" Eamon asked. "Where are you going?"
"To comfort my friend, and make sure you have a king," she said quietly; exiting the room without ever looking back.
o~~~~~~~~o
She found him in the middle of the castle's grounds. He was seated on a large rock, ripping pieces of grass from the ground and tossing them casually into a nearby pond. Sitting down next to him, she grabbed a stone and skipped it across the water.
"Well," she began, chuckling softly, "you certainly know how to make an exit, don't you?"
It was several minutes before he replied. When he did, she could hear the embarrassment in his voice.
"I suppose I handled that all wrong, didn't I?" he asked sheepishly. "So much for my diplomacy skills. I'll make a wonderful king, won't I?"
Zeva reached over and pulled Alistair to her, wrapping her arms around his shoulders. "If it comes to that, you will make an amazing king," she said kindly.
Alistair looked over at her, confusion evident on his face. "If it comes to that?" he asked. "I thought Duncan and Eamon already had my entire future planned out."
"Yes, well, you know me," Zeva replied, a devious smile spreading over her lips. "I don't accept anyone's decisions blindly. And for your information, I had no idea they were planning on dropping that little gem of knowledge in your lap over toast and jam."
Though he tried his best to remain stoic, Alistair found himself laughing at her joke. He cautiously returned her embrace; his heart fluttering as she snuggled closer against him. "So, if I may be so bold, Milady, what is your plan?" he asked.
"Well, I don't disagree with Eamon when it comes to his assessment of the Loghain situation," she began, pulling her shoes off and stretching her legs out; wriggling her toes in the soft grass. "We have to get rid of him before we face the Archdemon, and the easiest way to do that is to put you forth as a replacement."
"Agreed," Alistair said, following her lead and removing his own boots. It had been ages since he'd just relaxed with Zeva, and he wanted to prolong the experience if he could.
"However, many things can happen at a Landsmeet," she continued. "I attended several with my parents when I came of age. Decisions made there are nothing if not fluid. Once we remove Loghain, we can work to find a solution that will make everyone happy."
Shifting her body, Zeva took Alistair's face in her hands. "I won't let them force you into something you don't want, Ali," she promised, her eyes reflecting the truth in her words. "For now, just go along with their plans. It will keep Eamon out of our hair while we complete the treaties and prepare to face Loghain. When the time comes, I will stand beside you; whatever decision you make."
She placed a quick kiss on his cheek and rose from the ground, holding out her hand to help him up.
"Shouldn't we put on our boots?" he asked as he brushed the stray grass from his clothes.
"Who said you wouldn't be a good king?" she exclaimed, grabbing her discarded boots and heading down the rocky path. "You already have the 'I won't let my noble feet touch the filthy ground' part down perfectly!"
Her laughter was interrupted by a loud grunt as the first of several small rocks hit her in the back…
o~~~~~~~~o
Cauthrien entered the throne room, her face showing great fatigue. Ever since she'd been tasked with locating Warden Cousland, sleep had become a thing of the past. It seemed that the woman and her entourage had been spotted nearly everywhere; from Lothering to Orzammar. For wanted criminals, the Wardens certainly weren't trying very hard to maintain anonymity.
She approached the throne, shaking her head sadly at the Regent as she did so. In the few months since Ostagar, he appeared to have aged ten years or more. Though she hated the idea of allowing the Cousland woman near her commander, she knew that he needed the relief that her presence would bring. She worried what her new information would do to his already damaged psyche.
"You look disturbed, Cauthrien," Loghain said, running his thin fingers through his mussed hair. "Have you received word of the Wardens?"
"Yes, Milord," she said, bowing politely to him; a gesture he brushed away with a wave of his hand. "I have recently come into quite a bit of information about Warden Cousland and her party; some of which will not please you."
Loghain's mirthless laugh filled the room and his lieutenant involuntarily shuddered. "Do not concern yourself with my pleasure, Cauthrien," he said coldly. "I have long forgotten the feeling. What news do you have of Zeva?"
"I am not sure if you are aware of it, Milord, but Arlessa Isolde of Redcliffe arrived in Denerim several weeks ago," she began. "Rumor has it that she was forced from her home by her husband, who recently recovered from an attack on his life."
Damn you, Howe! Loghain thought furiously; though his face revealed nothing of the anger boiling in his veins. It had been Howe's idea to poison Guerrin; and, like everything the man had planned in recent months, it had been a complete failure. I look forward to seeing what the Cousland girl does to you when you next meet, you sick bastard!
"Can we move this along, Cauthrien?" he asked, shuffling anxiously in his chair. "I care not for the idle gossip of fools. Does this have anything to do with the Wardens?"
"It does," she answered simply. "My contacts tell me that Zeva Cousland and her companions were responsible for saving the Arl's life, and that even now she resides within the walls of his castle."
"She's with Guerrin?" he spat, rising from his chair. "Maker, of course she is! Bryce Cousland was Eamon's closest friend for many years." Turning to Cauthrien, he crossed his arms over his chest. "These contacts of yours – do they know why Isolde is here? Is there some way we can use her to get to Zeva?"
"We may be too late for that, Milord," she said quietly. "According to the bartender at the Gnawed Noble Tavern, the Arlessa has already chosen to ally herself with Rendon Howe."
For the first time in many weeks, Cauthrien saw a flash of life in Loghain's eyes. "Howe!" he yelled, clenching his fists in anger. "I should kill that monster, myself! The only thing keeping him alive is Zeva. I want her to be the one to end his wretched life; giving me the leverage I need to bring her around to my way of thinking."
"There is more, Milord," the lieutenant said, her eyes downcast. "I thought to approach the Arlessa and get a sense of her plans; but when I arrived at her home, she was gone. According to her servants, she hasn't been seen in several days. I spoke at length to a rather talkative maid I encountered in the main salon, and she said the Arlessa wrote a letter to her administrator; explaining that she needed time alone to grieve the loss of her husband and son."
"Then it appears, my dear Cauthrien, that we wait," he said, sighing heavily. "I have a feeling that the Wardens will be coming to us very soon."
"Sire?" she asked, her eyebrows raised.
"Eamon still lives and he now has the Theirin bastard in his hands," he said. "I have no doubt that his next move will be to call a Landsmeet and present him to the nobility as the rightful ruler of Ferelden." A wicked smile curved Loghain's lips as a plan formed in his mind. "Get some rest, lieutenant. We have much to do. When Zeva Cousland arrives in Denerim, she will be mine."
o~~~~~~~~o
"And here you are," Flemeth said quietly as Zeva approached her cabin. The witch was seated in a wooden chair outside her tiny front door, a bubbling cauldron of soup at her feet. "You've assembled quite a group since the last time we met; yet I don't see my dearest Morrigan among them. I am not surprised by this. I knew it was only a matter of time before she convinced you to come and rid the world of the 'Evil Witch of the Wilds'.
"I am not here to 'rid the world' of anything yet, Flemeth," Zeva replied. "I have some questions first, if you would indulge me."
"Of course," the witch replied, motioning for Zeva to take the seat next to her. Flemeth laughed when Duncan made a move to stop Zeva from accepting the invitation. "I have no intention of attacking her, Warden Commander," she said. "I am not an ungracious host, regardless of what my Morrigan has told you." Once Zeva was seated, Flemeth turned back to her; quietly waiting for the questions to begin.
"I found your grimoire in the Circle Tower," Zeva began, carefully studying the old woman's face for any signs of recognition. "I gave it to Morrigan to read and she came back to me with some rather disturbing news. She claims that you plan to steal her body and use it as your own once she has reached a magical power level that suits you. Is this true?"
"Is this how I have prolonged my life to this point – yes," she said. "I do not deny the power that I have, or the lengths that I have gone to in order to insure my survival. But do I plan to do the same to Morrigan? I can't be sure. Such decisions have yet to be made."
"I see," Zeva said, shocked by the honesty of Flemeth's responses. "Well, let me make this easy for you, then. The decision has been made. You will never have Morrigan for your twisted attempt at eternal life. She has a long future ahead of her, and I intend to make sure that she lives without fear."
"Your support of your companions is admirable, Zeva," Flemeth replied, "but foolish. You see those around you through the lens of your own kindness. This blinds you to their faults. Do not let anyone deter you from your true destiny. You are far too important."
"How is she important?" Duncan asked angrily. "I grow tired of the riddles both you and your daughter throw around so casually. I demand to know what you both want with Zeva."
Flemeth never even looked at Duncan as she responded to his outburst. "You can demand until the darkspawn own every corner of this kingdom, Warden Commander. It will do you no good. The plans set forth for your lovely Warden companion are not of my making; and I have neither the time nor the desire to put your mind at ease."
"Then it appears that this conversation is over," Zeva said, rising from the chair and returning to Duncan's side. "I will not stand idly by while you decide whether or not to steal Morrigan's body. She needs the threat you pose removed from her life, and I will see it done."
"It always comes to this, doesn't it?" the witch said as she rose from her chair and slowly walked onto a nearby hill. "If you wish to take my life, Warden, you will have to work for it." Her fingers began to glow and magic quickly swirled around her. Wynne moved forward, reciting several counter spells in preparation for the inevitable fight.
Before anyone could move, a thick mist enveloped the group; temporarily obscuring their view. Zevran was the first to recover and he moved quickly to Zeva's side; hoping to cover any attack that came her way. Panic rose in his chest as he found her immobile; her weapons only partially removed from their sheaths.
"My, my," Flemeth purred, "will wonders never cease?" With a sweep of her hand, the mist cleared. Zevran's companions stood all around him, completely frozen in place. Disregarding the rest of the group, he placed himself between Zeva and the witch; a look of hatred on his face.
"What did you do to her?" he yelled. "Release her immediately!"
Flemeth's smile made him shiver. "You know, when I first discovered that I would be relying on an assassin to protect Ferelden's future, I was certain that I was reading the signs incorrectly," she said. "Yet here you are, putting your life on the line for a woman whose family you helped to destroy. Life is full of twists and turns, is it not?"
For the first time in his life, Zevran Arainai was speechless. Nothing the witch said made sense. Protect Ferelden? His only concern was Zeva. Wait….
"I see you finally comprehend your place," Flemeth declared, the smile spreading across her face. "You have been called upon to stare into the face of destiny, elf, and you have to be prepared to risk everything to win."
"I grow very tired of your family's cryptic messages, witch," Zevran said as he slowly lowered his weapons. "I've heard all of this from Morrigan, and it made as much sense then as your nonsense does now. If there is something you want from me, say it. If not, prepare to defend yourself; as you will not lay one hand on Zeva."
"You have already agreed to that which I would ask of you," she said, chuckling softly. "My demands are simple. You are not to leave the young Warden's side; regardless of what may happen between you. Her continued existence is paramount to the safety of the world we know; and you are the only one who can help her succeed."
"Why me?" he asked. The witch had piqued his curiosity. Before he killed her, he would find out what she knew of Zeva's future.
Flemeth gestured to the companions on each side of him. "Do you know what spell I used on your friends, assassin?" she asked, crossing her arms over her chest. Before he could answer, she continued. "Of course you don't. I would venture to say the old mage with you wouldn't recognize it, either. It's a simple inquisition spell; quite basic, at least for me. I used it to draw out the one whose feelings for the beautiful young Warden were the strongest and purest. And those feelings, as it turns out, belong to you."
"But what about…" he began, his eyes flashing to Duncan.
"The Warden Commander?" she interjected. "His feelings are true; of that I have no doubt. But he is not long for this world; and there are too many strings attached to his feelings for her. Answer me this, elf. Do you love her?"
Love… the word spun around in his head; setting off long-buried alarms in his soul. The Crows taught him that love was a lie, and it had been his personal mantra ever since he'd first held a blade in his hand. He knew he cared for Zeva, and there was no doubt that he desired her… but love her? He'd never allowed such thoughts to linger long in his mind; especially given her relationship with Duncan. What was the use of giving his heart to a woman who belonged to another?
"And that is exactly why you were chosen over the great Warden Commander," Flemeth said, smiling softly. As he looked into her eyes, Zevran realized that she could read his thoughts. Such insights made him extremely uncomfortable.
"Stay out of my mind, witch," he warned, his eyes glimmering dangerously.
"But it's such an interesting place to visit," she replied. "Now answer my question. Do you love her?"
Zevran turned toward Zeva and placed his fingertips on her lips; tracing the soft pink contours. "Yes," he said, his eyes never leaving her face. "I do love her." As he spoke the words, he felt the dam holding back his emotions fall away from his heart. Tears sprung to his eyes and slid silently down his cheeks. "What do you need me to do?" he whispered. No matter the cost to his own life, he knew he could never allow harm to come to the woman he adored.
"Stay with her, no matter what obstacles appear to try and stop you," she answered. "Someone must protect her from the dangers to come; and for whatever reason, fate has chosen you to be that person."
Reluctantly he pulled his hand away from Zeva and turned back to the witch. "Obstacles?" he asked. "You mean Howe?"
"Among others," she answered. "You don't think your secret will remain hidden forever, do you?" Zevran's heart sank as he realized that she was referring to the battle at Highever. "No one can be allowed to separate you; not the monster who desires to take her as his own, and not even the Warden, herself. She doesn't understand what is to come, and how important your part is to her success. Even Morrigan isn't fully informed; though she thinks she knows all."
"And you won't tell me anything else, I assume?" he asked, trying not to think of Zeva's reaction to his deception.
"You are wise, indeed, my elven friend," she replied. "Now, I suggest we finish this fight. Your friends should be waking soon."
"Wait… fight?" he asked. He'd been so wrapped up in his conversation with the witch that he'd forgotten all about the fact that they'd come to kill her. "You do realize that if she is to survive, you have to die?"
"Of course," Flemeth said as she knelt on the soft grass of the hillside. "Do not worry about me, assassin. I knew this day would eventually come. I have made certain arrangements to protect myself. Take the grimoire to Morrigan as proof of my death. She never need know the truth."
Zevran walked to Flemeth's side, laying his dagger on the back of her neck. "Any last words?" he asked.
"We will meet again, elf," she said; looking up into his eyes. "When we do, I expect to see her at your side. Do we understand each other?"
"Yes, we do," he said, nodding slowly to her.
"Then do it," she commanded, closing her eyes and hanging her head. In one swift blow, it was over.
o~~~~~~~~o
Zeva slowly opened her eyes; the bright light from the cloudless sky above almost too much to bear. She carefully sat up and glanced around; her head throbbing painfully. Her companions were also rising; their pained expressions telling her that they felt as she did.
"Here, allow me to help," Zevran said, leaning over and extending his hand to her. She took it and he pulled her up; using his body to stabilize her. Their eyes met for one brief moment; and in Zevran's amber depths she saw all that he would never say aloud.
"Zeva!" Duncan called, rushing to her side and pulling her from the elf. "Are you alright?"
"Yes," she replied, though she still felt a little unstable. "What happened?" she asked. "Where is Flemeth?"
"The witch is dead," Sten said, his voice sounding unusually chipper. She turned toward him and saw the old woman's body lying on the hillside. No matter how hard she tried to remember the fight, nothing would come.
"Would someone mind telling me how we killed her?" she asked cautiously.
Zevran returned to her side and placed a hand on her shoulder. "I killed her," he said. "She was casting a sleep spell on the party. I recognized it for what it was, as it's a common spell within the Crow mages, and circled around behind her while she was preoccupied. I am sorry I wasn't fast enough to stop her from completing her incantation."
"No need to apologize," Zeva said, smiling warmly at him. "After all, you did kill her. I think that makes us more than even."
Oghren stepped up, a large leather-bound book held in his arms. "I think this is the book you wanted, Warden," he said, carefully handing her the tome. "It all looked like nonsense to me, so it must be magic."
"Thank you, Oghren," Zeva said as she placed the grimoire in her pack. "Well, I don't know about the rest of you, but I am anxious to get back to Redcliffe and collect the rest of our companions. A hot bath and a warm bed will do wonders for my disposition. Don't you agree, Commander?"
"Definitely," Duncan said, his eyes filled with desire. Taking Zeva's arm, he led the party away from the ruined hut; into the woods of the Wilds.
Zevran walked behind the rest of the group, his eyes fixed on Zeva's back. I love you, Zeva, he thought.
And someday, no matter how long he had to wait, he knew he would hear those words from the soft pink lips he's so recently caressed…