Chapter 19: Wulfenglen Keep
In the study of Wulfenglen keep, sat four men. Lord Leander Bryland, the eldest son and heir to Arl Leonas Bryland of South Reach sat in the main chair behind the table. Across the table, sat Lord Caradoc Bryland, the younger brother of Leander. In front of the table were two chairs, where sat Alvar Cousland and Alistair. Their other companions were told to wait outside by Alvar himself. Sten and Morrigan waited in the courtyard while Leliana had gone to the castle chapel to pray for the victims of Lothering. While the dwarves Bodahn and Sandal had set up a temporary stall in the courtyard.
Alvar looked much different now, after having a proper bath since several days. His face was neatly shaved and his hair shortened. He now looked more like the nobleman he was earlier. Their weapons were kept aside except for the swords in their belts.
"…. And then we came by Caradoc and now we are here," Alvar concluded narrating his story from the fall of Highever to Howe's mutiny and the battle of Ostagar to the current events. He explained in detail all that he knew. But he did not tell the brothers anything about the Grey Wardens' Joining and its consequences.
"Maker, you were really saved by the Flemeth herself!" Leander exclaimed in awe.
"Yes, I knew there was more to her when I saw her in the evening of the battle," said Alvar, "But never had I thought she would be Flemeth."
"And that young woman, dressed like a Chasind," said Caradoc, "she is the daughter, Flemeth sent with you."
"That sneaky, thieving, witchy one? Yes, that is her." Alistair answered the younger Bryland.
"But do you trust her?" Leander asked Alvar, "From all that we have heard of Flemeth, trust is not something I would easily give her."
"Neither would I," Alvar answered his best friend, "I am certain there is some purpose behind her sending her daughter with me and I know not what it is. But Flemeth and Morrigan have saved my life and nursed me back to health. Thus, I am willing to place some trust in them."
"Fair enough," declared Leander, "But I would advise you to be on your guard."
"I have a forest witch, an Orlesian priestess, a heathen giant and a Grey Warden as my companions!" laughed Alvar, "This is excluding the hefty one hundred and fifty sovereigns' bounty on my head. Of course, I have to be on my guard!"
Leander and Caradoc laughed with him, while Alistair frowned.
"But enough about me," said Alvar, "tell me all that is happening here. Caradoc told me your father is on his way back to South Reach from Denerim. Has he told you what happened in the Landsmeet?"
Leander nodded in agreement.
"I have heard only rumours from not very reliable sources at that. Tell me, what did Arl Leonas say." Requested Alvar.
Leander took a breath to steady himself, "Just as he left Denerim, father sent an errand rider with a letter. He described the events that followed.
"Many things have happened, Loghain has seized power by naming himself Lord Regent to his widowed daughter. And you have been convicted of treason."
"Yes, I have seen the bounty posters for mine and Alistair's head," said Alvar.
"Loghain betrayed the king!" yelled Alistair, "He is the one who fled from the battlefield while the Grey Wardens fought to the last man! He is the traitor and he frames us for the deed!"
"Yes, he has put a very high bounty on my head even though he knows fully that I was coerced into joining this damned order!" exclaimed Alvar, "He was present during every discussion I had with Cailan regarding my conscription."
"That is not what I am talking about," said Leander, "Loghain has charged House Cousland with treason."
"What?!" Alvar jolted.
"Yes," nodded Leander, "He has charged your entire family with treason and legitimised that snake Rendon Howe as the Teyrn of Highever."
Alvar shook his head, trying to process the information he just heard, "Whoa, Howe kills my family in cold blood and takes my lands while I am forced to flee with my life in my hands. And now he is the legitimate ruler while my family are traitors? What horseshit is this?! How is my father the traitor?! He was the one killed in an attack not authorised by the crown, not the renegade Howe!"
Leander sighed, "Well, it turns out the attack was not unauthorised," he said, "Loghain presented some documents which he claimed was brought to him by Howe, many months ago. The documents speak of communication between Teyrn Bryce and Orlesian high nobility.
"Loghain claimed that the Couslands were collaborating with the Orlesians to overthrow Cailan and put Bryce Cousland as the next king who would rule Ferelden in Orlais's name. He claimed that your family was going to sell Ferelden to Orlais in exchange for kingship. And thus, to avoid that, he gave Howe his orders to exterminate your family."
Rage and bewilderment hit Alvar at the same time on hearing this. "Communication with Orlesians?! What in the name of Andraste are they talking about?"
"They even used Teyrn Bryce's pursuit of the throne five years ago after Maric's disappearance as evidence to Bryce still desiring the throne," said Leander.
"Even your marriage was used as a sign of collaborating with foreigners,"
"But Sancia is from Nevarra, not Orlais," affirmed Alvar, "My family has a few trade relations with Orlais. But most of our trading partners are based in other nations like Nevarra, Free Marches, Antiva and so on.
"I can understand his reasoning behind his thinking that Grey Wardens are Orlesian stooges. But my family? This does not make any sense."
Before anyone could respond, Alistair turned left to face Alvar, "Hey, what do you mean you can understand his reasoning?! Why would Duncan or any Grey Warden plot with the Orlesians against Ferelden? Duncan fought alongside King Cailan and died with him for Maker's sake!"
"I did not say your Duncan or your Grey Wardens are in Orlesian pockets," said Alvar, turning to Alistair, "I said I can understand why Loghain might think so."
"Why?" questioned Alistair.
"Alistair, at Ostagar, I heard that there were talks about requesting for reinforcements from the Orlesians," said Alvar, "There were reports that Celene had prepared a force of over eight thousand Orlesian chevaliers, their foot soldier retainers and two hundred Grey Wardens to send to Ostagar as reinforcements. Cailan wanted to allow these forces inside our borders and Duncan was in full agreement with this. Do you know anything about this?"
"Yes," said Alistair, "But…"
Alvar raised a hand, "What did Duncan tell you abut this?" he demanded.
"Duncan believed that our meagre force of two score Grey Wardens will not be enough to defeat the darkspawn," Alistair explained, "To increase our odds, he advised Cailan to allow the Orlesian reinforcements. You were there at Ostagar and you saw how overwhelming the darkspawn hordes were, even you must agree that he was right about this."
"So, your witless fool of a commander forgets all the history Ferelden and Orlais have with each other and advocates for our worst enemies to be allowed to enter our borders," said Alvar. "How do you think our nobility would have felt about that?"
"But Duncan was only advising that to fight the blight, he does not wish for the Orlesians to reoccupy Ferelden," protested Alistair, "Besides, the blight is a common threat to all humanity. Even the Orlesians would understand this."
"Yes, and once the blight was defeated, they would occupy our weakened country like they did with Nevarra after the third blight," declared Alvar. "And also, is Orlais the only place with Grey Wardens? Nevarra, Free Marches, Antiva and other nations also have Grey Wardens. And these nations are way more trustworthy than those masked snakes. But for Duncan only Orlais has Grey Wardens, only Orlais will send reinforcements. Only with Orlesian help, we can stand against the darkspawn. So, he expects us to roll out red carpets and allow the Orlesians to come in and save us!"
"Did Duncan serve in Orlais before being appointed as Warden Commander in Ferelden?" asked Leander.
Alvar also turned to Alistair for the answer. "Yes," answered Alistair, "He was recruited in Orlais. He grew up in the streets of Val Royeau. He also spent some time of his childhood in Free Marches as well. But he was born in Highever," he turned to Alvar as he said this. "But this does not mean he serves Celene, he was a Grey Warden and that requires him to swear oaths of neutrality. Same goes with the other Grey Wardens. All of them are neutral and have no links with the Orlesian rulers."
Alvar, Leander and Caradoc were taken aback by his words, especially the last sentence. Alvar glanced at Leander and Caradoc. From the expression on both their faces, it was clear to him they were trying their best to control their laughter.
"Even the pebbles on Orlesian soil aren't free from politics and you say the Grey Wardens are!" exclaimed Alvar. He wanted to elaborate more on Orlesian politics as he himself had seen some of it during his studies in Orlais. But he did not want to waste any time, especially on what might be a futile venture.
"Anyways, let us back to Loghain. I already knew that someone was pulling Howe's strings, because that weasel does not have the gall to do what he did without any assurance of protection from any form of retribution," proclaimed Alvar, "But that man had to be Loghain, hmm… but after Ostagar I should have expected that lice ridden peasant to have had a hand in this."
"Who else did you suspect?" asked Caradoc.
Alvar turned to Caradoc and was about to say Eamon Guerrin, as the Arl of Redcliffe was also a political rival to his father. But he quickly remembered Alistair sitting beside him and stopped. "I don't know," he blurted. "I just knew that someone is pulling Howe's strings. There is just no way that weasel has the spine to go against us alone."
Leander and Caradoc agreed with Alvar.
Alvar silently pondering for a minute gazing on the table before him, then he looked up, "How did the nobles react when Loghain and Howe presented the so-called evidence of my family's treachery?" he asked.
"As expected, they were all shocked," answered Leander, "Father and some others are certain that the evidence is fabricated. But only father and Bann Edric had the courage to call out its duplicity."
Alvar smiled proudly at that.
"And as for others, majority of them were silent. But father's and Bann Edric's objections were of little avail," Leander spoke with disappointment, "Even Seneschal Donalbain confirmed that the evidence is true and…. House Cousland is now legally stripped of its rights and any association with your house is seen as treason."
"Hmmm," Alvar gave a slight nod, his face grave.
"But father and our allies were unfazed by Loghain's threats," Caradoc spoke proudly.
"What?" asked Alvar.
"When Loghain demanded the Landsmeet to swear fealty to him as Lord Regent, father and many more nobles refused." Leander answered his best friend, "He, Bann Edric and some dozen or so nobles refused to recognise the legitimacy of Loghain and Howe's government and so they walked out of the hall while that upstart peasant ranted on about treachery and patriotism.
"Even Teagan and some five or so lords of Western Ferelden walked out."
"Bann Teagan?!" Alistair exclaimed with sudden excitement, "What did he say?!"
Leander and Caradoc turned to Alistair, surprised by his sudden excitement. "I do not know much of what he said, father said he was appalled and infuriated at Loghain for abandoning Cailan to die at Ostagar. He does not believe that Loghain did it out of desperation."
"Of course, he didn't!" fumed Alistair, "He could have saved Cailan and Duncan. But he chose not to! He is the traitor, he betrayed Cailan and Duncan to the darkspawn! Not us!"
Leander and Caradoc exchanged surprised glances, they glanced at Alvar who rolled his eyes. "They know it, Alistair," he said, "They are my friends, now stop raving like a fool and restrain yourself."
Alistair took a few slow breaths to calm himself, then he fell silent.
"You said some dozen or so nobles followed Arl Bryland, which ones?" asked Alvar.
"They are all your family's vassals and allies," answered Leander. "Bann Edric, Bann Franderel, Bann Alfstanna, Bann Anghbor, Bann Hywel, Bann Grainne and some others."
"Wonderful! I am delighted to see there are allies I can still count on," declared Alvar. "How many nobles are on Loghain's side?"
"Almost half of the Landsmeet has sworn fealty to Loghain," answered Leander. "And worse, many of their fyrds are still intact, not having been at Ostagar."
"You mean not being left to die, like the Highever fyrd." Alvar complained angrily, "That whoreson killed my entire fyrd! Even if one soldier was still alive I would…"
Leander and Caradoc were again surprised, they exchanged another glance with one another and turned to Alvar. "Alvar, your cavalry still lives." Caradoc informed the lord of Highever.
"What?" Alvar asked with surprise.
"Yes, some nine hundred or so knights survived the war," said Leander. "They were a part of the cavalry force who were supposed to flank the darkspawn. And you know the flanking charge never came."
"Ah yes!" exclaimed Alvar, with a hand on his forehead, "Holy Maker! I had almost forgotten about it. So that means Ser Alan too lives!" he was delighted.
"Yes, Ser Alan and your cavalry is currently stationed in South Reach city," said Leander.
"Thank the Maker!" Alvar exclaimed gratefully, "At least Ser Alan and my knights have managed to survive!"
"If only Duncan also had managed to survive the battle," Alistair uttered softly.
"Yes, I would have loved that too," said Alvar, turning to his Grey Warden companion, "You know how much I would love to see him again." His tone was drenched with sarcasm, his contempt for the Warden Commander barely hidden.
The two Bryland brothers frowned at the exchange between Alvar and Alistair. They seemed to have noted something. They glanced at Alvar who in turn returned the glance. At which they remembered what their father Leonas had told them about Alvar being forced into the Grey Wardens and him loathing them greatly.
"So since, Arl Bryland, Bann Teagan and over half of the nobles walked out from the Landsmeet," spoke Alvar, "I take it Loghain did not take it kindly."
"Yes," nodded Leander. "He was furious, he was quick to declare all their houses as traitors. Even Bann Teagan and his own allies who are not allied with House Cousland weren't spared either.
"He claims that loyalty to the crown is of utmost importance during a blight. And any who refuses is a traitor to the realm."
"It seems Loghain is using the blight as a pretext to seize power for himself," said Alvar, "Having my family killed a week before the battle at Ostagar, Arl Urien Kendells assassinated before he reached Ostagar. And given that he was the architect of the battle plan at Ostagar, I am certain he had planned on betraying Cailan and others." Alvar said confidently.
"That sly weasel! Was it not enough for him to have gone from a nobody to a Teryn; a high noble in one instant and having the king as his son in law?!" growled Leander angrily.
"He was an upstart then and now, he is not even hiding his real face," Alvar spoke with contempt. "But he will learn his place soon. Unfortunately for him, I did not die at Ostagar. I will avenge my family, and take back my stolen lands! Howe and Loghain will end in cold graves!
"Now after that Landsmeet, our nobility has been polarised. Over half of the nobility have sworn fealty to Loghain. We must rally the other half under our banner. We must remain united if we are to have any chance of overthrowing Loghain."
"Yes, But Loghain controls the better half," said Caradoc, "Most of the nobles serving him have fyrds which were untouched by not being at Ostagar. And he also controls Highever, Amaranthine, Denerim and Gwaren, some of the wealthiest and populous provinces in Ferelden."
"He is right," agreed his older brother, "Alvar, we are going to difficulties in matching Loghain in numbers and resources."
Alvar looked down at the table and pondered, he agreed with their point and no matter how righteous his cause was, what really matters is military and economic power. Then he suddenly looked up at Leander, "And that is where the Grey Wardens finally be of some use," he said confidently, "Look at this," he said taking out the Warden Treaty scrolls from his belongings. He presented them to the two brothers.
Leander took the treaties and read them as Alvar expounded, "The Grey Wardens have treaties with the Dwarven kingdoms, the Dalish elves and the Circle of the Magi. We can use these treaties to rally their armies under the Grey Warden banner which currently is also mine. With their numbers, we can easily outmatch Loghain and Howe's strength."
Leander finished reading the treaties in a few minutes and then he handed the scrolls to his younger brother who started reading them. "Alvar, that is a tempting plan," said Leander, "But the treaties say they are obligated to help the Grey Wardens only in times of a blight and against the darkspawn. How will we get them to help us in fighting Loghain's men?"
A thin smile formed at Alvar's lips, "I am a Cousland. I am entitled to the wealthiest province in Ferelden. My family name carries some weight outside Ferelden too. I can make offers and negotiations to convince them to help our cause. Offers which can only be fulfilled after Loghain and Howe's ugly heads are severed from their bodies."
Leander understood what Alvar meant, "The dwarves of Orzammar value trade with outsiders, they would look kindly to improving trade relations with Ferelden. Likewise, if we can offer more and then we might even convince them to fight alongside us against Loghain."
"Wait, you are going to use Grey Warden allies to fight Loghain?" Alistair was shocked.
"You have a problem?" Alvar asked coldly.
"We have tenets of neutrality, stating against such actions. We can't do that!" exclaimed Alistair. "Our focus must be to fight the blight. Everything else is secondary to that."
Alvar resisted his tempting urge to slap Alistair across the face, but he sighed and held his anger, "Alistair, we cannot stand against the darkspawn if Loghain is not defeated and our country remains divided. Hence, we must look for ways to fight Loghain, whatever they may be."
"But the blight will not wait for us to defeat Loghain." Protested Alistair.
"Do you have any other way?" demanded Alvar.
"Well, I…" stammered Alistair.
"Mayhap we should talk to Loghain, convince him that blight is a more serious threat and that Grey Wardens are essential to fight them. Something which you failed to convince me. But then Loghain is a nice man, unlike me."
"No, it is just that… I do not like this," said Alistair. "I do not like to the Grey Wardens' neutrality being undermined like this. I wish there was some other way."
"There is another way, Alistair," Alvar said sardonically. "Like I said we can meet Loghain and if you do manage to convince him, then well and good. We will all fight and defeat the darkspawn together. But what after that?
"Loghain will then punish us for our treachery at Ostagar and my own family's supposed betrayal. There will not even be a trial. Instead, we will be charged, convicted and sentenced before we will even know it. Is that what you want?"
Alistair was silent, he knew Alvar was right as much as he hated to admit. Then he gave a cynical smile, "This is amazing," he said sardonically, "For all your hatred against the Grey Wardens, you will now use the same treaties for your own purpose! I had expected you to have more pride in your hatred."
"I will do anything to gain an edge over Loghain and Howe," declared Alvar. "And do not speak to me of pride. I am a Cousland and I will not take lectures on honour and pride from the likes of you!"
"My apologies," said Alistair, sarcasm still present in his tone, "I forgot that you men are nobles. Virtues, honour and pride are your trademark. Those aren't something some nobody like me would have knowledge of. The…."
"Alistair!" yelled Alvar, enraged by his words, "If you cannot sit in a discussion without allowing your emotions to guide your words and look at the bigger picture like a grownup adult, then please leave!"
"Yes, I will," said Alistair as he got up from his seat, "I will not disturb you grownup men in your grownup discussions."
Alvar ignored his jibes, he simply crossed his arms and gazed ahead. Alistair, having gotten up from his seat, walked towards the door and exited the room.
Silence fell in the study for some time. After a couple of minutes, Caradoc too got up from his seat, "I will got check up on the knights and the provisions in the granary," he said.
"Sure brother, we shall catch up later," said Leander. And after exchanging a nod with Alvar, Caradoc too exited the room.
"All the recent events make me wonder what would have happened if I had gone ahead with my original plan of secession," said Alvar slowly, uncrossing his arms and placing them on the table.
"The battle of Ostagar happened the day you would have left," observed Leander. "Given the size of your fyrd, even with a forced march I do not think you would have reached Storm Coast as quickly as Sancia's convoy. At best case, you may have reached Storm Coast by the time Loghain declared himself Regent. While you would still have your fyrd it wouldn't have been possible for you to have recaptured Highever and Amaranthine; and declare independence from Ferelden, yet.
"And Loghain would have a chance to tarnish your reputation further. He would have blamed your desertion for the disaster at Ostagar. He would have covered his betrayal using the departure of your fyrd from Ostagar."
"But if I had gone along with that plan, at least my fyrd would be in full strength," asserted Alvar, rubbing his chin. "And I would be having Sancia, Angus, Elissa, uncle Edric and others for company rather than these knaves I am stuck with. Also, I wouldn't have been a cursed Grey Warden.
"As for Loghain, his words mean horseshit now. Even if he convinced the nobility that my departure was the reason for defeat, we can still negotiate and make alliances among them. Because, Loghain has shown them that he will not protect their interests.
"He just uses the blight and Orlesians as a reason to submit to his will. While he demands them to bow or face his wrath, we will offer favours in return for support. I believe we could still gather support among the nobility regardless of how much Loghain would tarnish my name."
"True," agreed Leander, then he frowned, "But Alvar why did you not go ahead with your plan of secession?" he asked with curiosity.
"Yes, I had planned something else instead," said Alvar and he paused for a moment. Then he frowned, "Wait, how do you know about my plan for secession?"
"I spoke to Ser Alan when he returned with father. He told me everything that happened in Ostagar," answered Leander, "Yours and Sancia's arrival at Ostagar, how the Grey Wardens were extorting you to join their order, with the King's sanctioned approval which I should add; till the night of the battle.
"He told me that you and him had planned to depart with the entire Highever fyrd from Ostagar towards Highever. With Cailan and Loghain preoccupied with the darkspawn, they would not pursue your men. Then you would overthrow Howe and take back Highever and seize Amaranthine as well. By the time the darkspawn threat would be dealt with, you and Sancia would be firmly seated as king and queen of the newly created kingdom covering Highever, Amaranthine, Storm Coast and maybe a couple more of the Northern Bannorn."
"Cailan would then use his full strength and resources to bring you to submission, your goal then would be defending your kingdom till Cailan is exhausted and would be forced to recognise your independence. Then with your family's trade connections overseas and with help from the Van Markham family in Nevarra, you would build your economy."
"A good plan and a very bold one," lauded Leander, "I am impressed and I am extremely curious to see what would have happened if you went along with it."
Alvar smiled half-heartedly, "A bold one indeed but very risky, the stakes were too high. And if Cailan or I should say Loghain were to capture us, he would have the perfect reasons to have my head. Thus, I planned something else. After sending Sancia away from Ostagar, I negotiated for a conditional recruitment. I made it clear that I will join only for the battle at Ostagar. I even had Cailan draft a charter declaring so.
"If the darkspawn would be defeated soon, then I would still retain my legal rights to the Teyrnir of Highever. Cailan's charter would override any Grey Warden rule.
"If the war dragged on, I and my men would desert eventually. Of course, we would not desert at the same time, but rather we would do so over a period of time. We would make our way to Storm Coast and from there we would plan our next move."
"But I did not expect the battle of Ostagar to be over in one night," Alvar shook his head, while rubbing his forehead. "I never anticipated Loghain would betray Cailan. I don't think anyone thought he would betray his own son in law."
"Anyone except Howe," added Leander. "I am sure he knew of Loghain's plans at Ostagar."
"Yes," Alvar nodded in agreement. "Given his own gall to mutiny against my family and how Loghain has publicly legitimised him, of course he would have known it."
Leander nodded, "And sending Sancia away from Ostagar was an excellent decision," he proclaimed.
"Maker yes! She wanted to stay in the camp. She was afraid and she pleaded me to not send her away. I am afraid to think what would have happened had I agreed to her pleas and allowed her to remain in our camp!" exclaimed Alvar, as he recalled the rumours he heard about darkspawn dragging people underground. "Come to think of it, did your father mention anything about her?" he asked. He was certain that her convoy led by the lady knight Ser Mhairi had reached Storm Coast safely and that Sancia is in a safe place; But still he wanted confirmation.
"Sancia is in Storm Coast," answered Leander, "She is safe, but she like many other nobles, think you are dead. Bann Edric told my father that she is greatly anguished and spends too much of her time in the castle chapel. But she is safe and well cared for."
Alvar was relieved to hear that, he leaned back on his seat and relaxed. "That is good!" he exclaimed, "And now that you know I am alive, spread the word to all our allies. Let them know that I am still alive and I am rallying support against Loghain's illegitimate rule, to which Anora is the figurehead."
"But wouldn't that make your task more difficult?" asked Leander, "Loghain and Howe would send men after you to finish what they couldn't at Highever. Your entourage would be hounded by their agents."
"That has already happened, Leander. At Lothering, I already faced some six of his soldiers looking for me. So, Loghain already knows I am alive. Plus, he has announced a bounty of one hundred and fifty sovereigns on my head. Yes, I have one of the largest bounties on my head," laughed Alvar.
"Yes, one hundred and fifty sovereigns!" exclaimed Leander. "Maker's breath man. That old wretch is desperate to have you dead."
"Yes," agreed Alvar, "But now here is my plan, I will visit each of these factions mentioned in the treaties. With the treaties, I shall convince them to join my banner to fight the darkspawn. I will try to negotiate pacts to get them to ally with us against Loghain as well. I am the rightful Teyrn of Highever and I have multiple connections in the Free Marches, Nevarra, Antiva and even Orlais. Maker, I can make offers to the Fereldan nobles and foreign leaders which that peasant Loghain can only dream of!
Alvar then paused for a moment and pondered, then he again spoke, "But if that is not possible and the dwarves, elves and mages decide to fight only the darkspawn, it will still be beneficial to us as that will free some of our own forces from fighting the darkspawn."
"Yes, then we can use all our Fereldan forces to fight Loghain while using other allies to fight the darkspawn. And honestly, I would say we must prepare for the latter," proclaimed Leander. "Because I do not think those dwarves and the Dalish vagrants would be willing to fight in our civil war. The dwarves live underground to care, and I do not imagine the Dalish to be enthusiastic about making alliances and fighting for us. And as for the mages, they are too few and I am not sure how much trust can we put in magic."
"Hmm… you have a point," agreed Alvar. "Then it seems that we must suffice with whatever Fereldan forces we can raise."
Leander nodded and thought for some time. Suddenly he was hit with an idea, "Alvar!" his tone showed enthusiasm, "What about the Nevarran forces? Your wife is the daughter of two of Nevarra's most powerful families. Why don't we request them for assistance?"
"Hmmm, I am a son to the Van Markham family through marriage," observed Alvar. "No doubt, they will help me in reclaiming Highever. Sancia too suggested the same thing at Ostagar. Duke Frederick Van Markham has immense wealth and a large army. We can request him to provide us military and financial aid and he will definitely agree. All we have to do is ask Sancia to write to her father, which she will do the instant she receives a letter from me. But we won't yet."
"What?!" Leander was taken aback.
"I mean, we won't ask for Nevarran assistance yet," clarified Alvar. "Think man, Loghain has just received half of our nobility's fealty by lying in the Landsmeet about my family's so called 'scheming with foreigners' and justifying their massacre. How do you think it will be seen when a Nevarran army lands on Feraldan soil hailing my name?
"No, I will request Duke Frederick for help but not now," stated Alvar. "We must wait for now and observe how things will unfold. Once the time is right, we will get the Nevarran reinforcements on our soil and it will be a decisive point in our struggle. But now, we cannot afford to provide Loghain more diplomatic weapons against us. Thus, despite my own desire to have Nevarran assistance now, I must delay that course of action."
Leander was silent for a moment, he then nodded, "I understand your point," he said, "So now, where do you plan to go next? Although my advice would be to visit the Circle Tower in Kinloch Hold, it is up to you to decide."
"Kinloch Hold is where I have planned to visit first," declared Alvar, "Going to Orzammar would require me to leave Ferelden and the Dalish are vagrants, Maker knows how long it would take to find them in the vast Brecilian forest. Thus, I plan to go the mages first."
"Fair enough," agreed Leander, "Any way I can help you?"
"Yes," said Alvar, "I need some things; I want two sets of mercenary chainmail armour, two unmarked shields and helmets. With the bounty Loghain has put on my and Alistair's head, traveling in Grey Warden armour and carrying their shields is inviting unwanted trouble. I want a detailed map of Ferelden too.
"I want food and water supplies to last us for at least three weeks. A Horse for myself and for each of my companions, and a couple of pack horses for supplies."
"I can provide you all of that," Leander said firmly.
"Oh, I want some money also. Can you loan me a hundred sovereigns?" requested Alvar. "I will need them to restock my supplies."
"I will," said Leander. He had the fortress steward summoned and ordered him to prepare all that Alvar requested. The steward took note of the requirements and left the room.
"Alvar, you are going to leave soon? Come to South Reach city, my father would reach there by the time you get there," said Leander. "There you can get more information from my father and also meet up with Ser Alan and your knights."
"I would love to come to South Reach and meet Arl Bryland and the rest of your family," Alvar spoke with disappointment in his tone, "I would love to meet Ser Alan and my surviving knights again. But unfortunately, I am short of time. If Loghain is smart, then he will also send his lackeys to Kinloch Hold to ally with the mages. I must get there before him; every minute I spend elsewhere, is a minute Loghain's lackeys gain. Thus, I have to decline your invitation now."
Leander seemed a bit disappointed but he knew Alvar was right. "I understand," he said, "So, will you stay for lunch?"
"Of course, I am staying for lunch," affirmed Alvar. "I will leave after having lunch. You don't think I am going to miss a chance to have some civilised food, do you?" smiled Alvar.
Leander shrugged, "Well, I thought you would have been used to having dry bread by now," Leander laughed. "Anyways, all this talk has made me thirsty." Saying that Leander called out for a servant.
An elf servant entered, to whom Leander ordered to bring wine. The servant left as Leander turned to Alvar, who asked him, "Well Leander, how is Rowena? I thought she would have accompanied you here."
"She wanted to, so did Siobhan. They wanted to 'assist me in managing the fortress' they said but I refused them both," answered Leander, "We are only a few leagues away from the current position of the darkspawn. Maker knows when we will be under attack by the darkspawn hordes. And when that happens, I do not want my wife and sister here."
"Good decision," agreed Alvar
"Yes, but I miss my wife though," complained Leander, "I wish she was with me."
"Tell me about it," retorted Alvar in a jovial manner.
xXxXxXxXxXx
Hours later, in the armoury of the fortress stood Alvar, his companions, Leander, Caradoc and the servants helping with the armour. Alvar was donning his new armour while standing near a table on which, two large unmarked wooden shields were placed. Alvar's new armour consisted of a chainmail, a brown leather jerkin over it, gauntlets, sabatons and a horned helmet. It was a common attire among mercenaries in the country.
Alistair was given the same set and was currently dressing up, standing near Alvar. Leliana took a quiver full of arrows for her bow and even Sten was finally given a greatsword after approval from Alvar. As for Morrigan, there was nothing she needed from the fortress armoury.
"You don't need different swords?" Leander asked Alvar.
"No," Alvar answered while fastening his gauntlets, "The swords aren't that distinct in appearance to attract unwanted attention. Also, they are of fine make."
"Fair enough, what about this Grey Warden armour?" asked Leander, while pointing at the two sets of blue and silver chainmail, surcoats and winged helmets. Along with two Grey Warden shields, one of which was broken.
Alvar was done wearing his armour, he took one look at the Grey Warden armour lying on the table. "I do not need them anymore," he remarked casually, "Do what you want with the chainmail; As for the surcoats and the shields, burn them for all I care."
"What?!" Alistair was shocked by Alvar's instruction, "You are jesting, right?" he looked Alvar. Alvar did not give any glance towards Alistair, his grave face answered Alistair's question. Leander, glanced between his best friend and Alistair. He looked again at Alvar who frowned at him.
"You heard him men, take these surcoats and shields to the forges," Leander bellowed the orders to the waiting attendants.
Two attendants approached the table to pick up the Grey Warden surcoats, "Hey stop! Wait a minute!" Alistair yelled. The attendants stopped and looked at Alistair and then they looked towards Leander. Leander simply nodded and the attendants continued to pick up the surcoats and shields.
"Alvar!" yelled Alistair and then he put his hand on his shoulder and turned the nobleman to face him, "Why are you doing this?!" he demanded.
"If the Grey Warden surcoats and shields are seen in public, they could grab attention from Loghain's spies. I do not want what happened in Lothering to be repeated again. So, we are going to wear this from now on," said Alvar as he indicated his own mercenary armour.
"That is not what I am talking about and you know it!" Alistair lashed out angrily, "I mean about the burning of the Grey Warden colours!"
"What do you want to be done?" asked Alvar.
"We can simply stash them here in the armoury or just give them away to someone," suggested Alistair.
"And what happens to that someone when Loghain's men come across him?" retorted Alvar, "They will then torture him to tell them where he got our armour from and where we were headed to. And given the bounty on our heads, do you really think anyone would be willing to take the Grey Wardens armour from us?"
"Well… I don't know. But is burning them really necessary?" Alistair demanded.
Alvar was silent for a moment, he looked at the floor and then looked up to Alistair again, "It is necessary," he said calmly, "We cannot let these surcoats and shields fall into anyone's hands and risk them informing on us. Destroying them is the only option we have."
Alistair looked dumfounded, he wasn't sure about Alvar's explanation, 'What about all the people who have seen us here?' he pondered, 'The servants, the soldiers; what is stopping them from informing Loghain's men on us? Is he going to kill them too as a prevention?' Alistair tried to understand the reasoning behind Alvar's explanation but then he realised Alvar's intent.
Alistair narrowed his eyes at Alvar and a grimace appeared on his face, "You are doing this deliberately aren't you?" his words were filled with contempt, "You are doing this out of spite!"
Alvar glanced at Leander and turned to Alistair, he gave a mocking smile, "I knew you would finally get it," he laughed.
"You cannot do this! I will not let you defile the sacred Grey Warden symbols like that!" declared Alistair as he placed a hand on the hilt of his sword.
Alvar noticed his gesture and approached closer to Alistair. "Do not even think about it!" he hissed sternly, "This fortress is owned by my best friend, all the soldiers here follow his command. All I have to do is give the word and you will be cut to ribbons even before you know it. Do you wish to die here, like this?" Alvar stared intently into Alistair's eyes.
On being stared down, Alistair slowly took his hand off his sword and backed a couple of steps. "Just my luck that I am stuck with you!" Alistair cursed and turning around, he stomped out of the armoury. Leliana was about to go after him, but before that she glanced at Alvar. Alvar nodded and she went after him. Sten and Morrigan still stayed in the room.
An old man, the steward of the fortress appeared in the entrance, he walked towards Leander and handed the young Bryland heir a small pouch. Leander then dismissed his steward, and opened the pouch. After counting the contents inside, he approached Alvar.
"Alvar," he called him and handed the pouch, "Here is one hundred and fifteen sovereigns, a little extra in case of unforeseen circumstances."
Alvar accepted the pouch, "My thanks, Leander," he proclaimed gratefully, "Once, I am in control of Highever again, I shall repay every single coin."
"No, you won't," Leander shook his head.
"Eh?"
"I mean, those coin are not a loan," explained Leander, "I am not giving them to you as a loan. But rather a gift. You need not return them back."
Alvar was taken by surprise, "Leander, this is a lot of money. You are jesting right?"
"I am serious," declared Leander. His grim face showed he was serious about it.
There was silence for a couple of moments, "No, I cannot accept this," said Alvar. "Please, it is alright Leander, I will repay the money soon."
Leander put a hand on his forehead, he was fully aware of his best friend's pride. He then put a hand on the pouch in Alvar's palm. "Alvar, I wish it to be a gift," he said gently, "Please, allow me to help you the best I can."
Leander's pleas finally convinced Alvar, "Alright, I will take it as a gift." And he took Leander's hand in his own, "And I give you my word, I will never forget this favour…. someday I will return it," he proclaimed.
Leander smiled, happy on his success in convincing Alvar. Then he looked around the room. On noticing Sten and Morrigan who were now walking towards the exit, he grabbed Alvar's arm and led him aside near a window, further away from the soldiers and servants in the room.
"Alvar," he spoke softly, he was still grabbing on to his arm, he leaned closer towards Alvar's face "I noticed what happened between you and that Alistair now. I also noticed what he tried to do.
"Tell me, are you a hostage to this band?"
"What?" Alvar was astounded by the question.
"If you are in danger among them, or you are being held hostage, then just tell me. I have more than a thousand men in this fortress. We can get rid of them for good, just tell me the word."
"No Leander," Alvar shook his head, "I hold command over this motley band. I am the one making all the decisions. They all obey my orders."
"They do now, but I do not think it will go on for long," said Leander, "That Alistair openly defies your judgements, you and him clearly do not see eye to eye. And then you have a Qunari beast, a daughter of Flemeth, an Orlesian Chantry priestess who knows how to fight and had a 'colourful life'! How many of them can you really trust? You have a chance now to get rid of them and take some of your own knights in South Reach city instead for your retinue."
"Leander," Alvar spoke softly, he put his hand on Leander's and removed his grip, "Alistair, despite his many flaws, hates Loghain as much as I do if not more. Against Loghain, I have no fear of being betrayed by him.
"Morrigan and her mother are the reason I still live. There is no doubt they have their own interests behind saving my life. But whatever they may be, my death or capture will not serve them. If they did, then I wouldn't be alive by now.
"And as for Leliana and Sten, I do not trust them yet. I am keeping an eye on them. But I am not in any position to choose my allies. I must suffice with whatever I can get."
"Hmmm… Valid points," said Leander, "I understand now. I just hope you will be safe and we shall triumph over all our enemies soon."
"Maker willing, we will,"
xXxXxXxXxXx
Later, in the courtyard of Wulfenglen keep; Alvar and his companions, Leander, Caradoc and other South Reach knights had assembled. Bodahn and Sandal had also packed their stall and were ready in their ox cart. They claimed, they had decided to accompany Alvar to Kinloch Hold as well. Seven horses are prepared for Alvar and his band. One for each of them and two as pack animals to carry supplies. All of Alvar's companions had mounted their horses.
Alvar and Alistair were now clad in mercenary chainmail and leather jerkins. A large round shield with no markings on its face hung behind their backs. A helmet with horns on either side bending sideways along with adequate protection for the eyes and most of the face, hung on the right side of their waist. Only their swords were of the Grey Warden Order. Everything else was similar to the attire of mercenaries in Ferelden.
Alvar stood before his own horse, it is a beautiful stallion with a black coat that resembled a starless night sky. One of the best horses in Wulfenglen keep. Alvar caressed the chin and neck, admiring its beauty. The last time, he rode a horse was before the fall of Highever. Since then, he was forced to walk, no matter how long the distance.
"Mistral shall be your name," declared Alvar.
"You named him after your mother's ship during the Orlesian war, eh?" said Leander.
"Yes, and my mabari who was slain at Highever," answered Alvar. Then he approached Leander.
"I thank you again for all your help, my friends. I wish I could stay longer, but I cannot," he said passionately, "we will meet again soon,"
And the two best friends took each other in a passionate embrace. Alvar squeezed his eyes to stop the tears welling in them. They broke from the embrace, "We will meet again soon," proclaimed Leander, "And the next time, it will be you, me and Angus riding together against our enemies, they be Loghain or darkspawn."
"Not much difference between the two," laughed Alvar.
Leander laughed in agreement, "Godspeed Alvar, may the Maker watch over you!"
Alvar nodded and then turning around, he mounted his horse. Waving a final goodbye, he spurred his horse to move. His companions too followed along. Once they were out of the fortress gates, they increased their speed. They would now travel north, to the Circle Tower located in the northern parts of Lake Calenhad.
A/N: In this story, Arl Leonas Bryland has four children, two sons and two daughters. In the order of age, they are: - Leander (24), Siobhan (21), Caradoc (20) and Habren (18). Rowena (22) is the wife of Leander and daughter of Bann Anghbor as mentioned in previous chapters. And as for Alvar and Sancia, they are 22 and 21 years old.
Alvar and Alistair's mercenary armour is based on the warrior armour found in "Human Commoner Origin-Revived" mod. Credits to their respective authors.
As for the helmet, the design is the same as the dragonborn helmet from Skyrim, I just liked the design and felt it would look cool for a mercenary armour xd.