Kinloch Hold

It took almost a week of relaxing conversation, hunting and camping — with no darkspawn — to reach Kinloch Hold. Elle found out a bit about Warden-Commander Duncan. He could run as fast as any person she had ever seen run! He actually ran down a rabbit for the cookpot one night. No way a recruit could outrun him to escape.

He was born in Highever and then his family fled to Orlais to escape the occupation. Ironically enough, hard-working Ferelden blacksmiths — as his father was a master — were in high regard in Val Royeaux's stables. So, Duncan's life as a young man was good until his parents died. He then received the balance of his education in the streets and not-so-opulent back allies of the Orlesian capital.

He got caught robbing a man's room and the ensuing fight ended up with the man's death. Then, Duncan found out that he'd killed a Grey Warden. He was captured and was about to be executed when, surprisingly, the Orlesian Warden-Commander Genevieve conscripted him from the hangman's noose. She dragged him with her to Ferelden on some secret warden mission about which Duncan refused to go into details. However, Elle did recall a time when Maric went on walkabout with some wardens twenty or so years ago. She made a note to look it up sometime.

After they arranged for rooms at the loud and raucous Spoiled Princess, Duncan showed Elle the way to the docks. "Ultimately, I became the Warden-Commander for Ferelden and here I am, escorting the infamous Lady Elethea Cousland to the Circle Tower."

Elle chuckled. "Infamous, am I?" She grinned. "I rather like that." She had never been to the small hamlet of Kinloch or ever visited the Circle Tower. More regular visits were something she felt she needed to remedy sometime in future. Having a contact near the mage tower might come in handy someday. However, she fully recognized that now was not the time for recruiting a confidant.

"I thought you might like that." Duncan gave her his own chuckle. The man was dangerously charming, but so unattainable that Elle didn't even bother to consider him as a serious potential relationship. It made her sad. After what she had gone through with Nathaniel Howe, there were few men she would consider … and, if things were different, Duncan would be near the top of the list. Mother would insist he was too old, but Elle could see the value of men who had already found their way in life and had nothing to prove. Maker save her, but Anora's father, Loghain, was on that vaunted list, as well.

After a short trip in Kester's sturdy rowboat christened "Lizzie", Elle, Midnight and Duncan walked through the solid double doors into the Circle Tower. She had heard an entire spectrum of what these Circles were like. The truth was somewhere in the middle, it turned out … as it usually did.

It suddenly reminded her of her one remaining correspondence friend, Marise Trevelyan, at the Ostwick Circle. Elle's mother had insisted that she write to a variety of people from all over to learn about different opinions and locales. Many were from people her parents knew, but one was a referral from a family member. The Couslands had an acquaintance in the Trevelyan family who suggested that Marise might enjoy a letter from someone. And, she did.

They wrote to each other often. Much of Elle's tolerance of the Chantry and the Circle came from Marise's level-headed assessments. Her letters also helped Elle through the heartbreak about Nathaniel. While Marise was trusted enough to go home from time to time and had a caring family who kept her apprised of happenings in Ostwick, she had only heard about Nathaniel's arrival. Apparently, he arrived and dropped completely out of sight, which made the entire attack by mercenaries from Ostwick even more suspicious.

Of course, not every mage had the same permissions as a mage from a noble family; however, Marise did have to prove she could be trusted, regardless. And, there were many letters about the constant hoops she had to go through to gain that trust.

But this day, Elle was walking through the actual Circle in Ferelden. The bottom floor held the entry and the apprentice dormitories … many of the mages there were very young. Some seemed adjusted, some seemed scared, some were rowdy, some were belligerent. However, they were all alone and trapped in a tower. Elle would find it intolerable, but did try to hide her look of horror as they passed by the children. There was a library section where the young mages were practicing and learning. It seemed like a good learning environment … except for the inability to see outside. Marise never really covered the whole "behind foot-thick iron doors" situation in her letters.

The second floor had Elle come face to face with a Tranquil. Fortunately, he was busy speaking with a couple of the older mages who called him Owain. That monotone voice sent chills up Elle's spine. She just knew she could not spend one second more than necessary in this tower or she would open the doors and let everyone out! Of course, Elle realized that would be counterproductive to Duncan's plans.

In short enough order, they were escorted up to First Enchanter Irving's office just in time to overhear a rather loud disagreement. "Irving, you cannot give Anders to the Grey Wardens!"

That sounded like Knight-Commander Greagoir, Elle mused.

"He is not a maleficar, Greagoir! You know this as well as I. He's a very competent healer and instructor … someone who would be of great value to the Grey Wardens, especially if there is a Blight coming. He just can't stand being locked in the tower." Irving sighed.

Duncan took that moment to knock.

Greagoir opened the door. "We're not ready for you yet, Duncan." He glanced at Elle. "Or, your fellow warden." He didn't seem to recognize her. Of, course, there was no real reason he would. He'd met her only once, years ago at a court function.

"Nonsense, Greagoir." Irving said as he walked toward the door and opened it wide. "Maker's Mercy, don't tell me Teyrn Cousland allowed his daughter to join the Grey Wardens." Elle and Irving had crossed paths a number of times. A much younger Irving explaining to an eight-year old Elle why she could not "learn" to be a mage was one of her fondest memories.

Duncan smiled. "Not yet."

"Well, then you can't have any more mages … yet." Greagoir put his fists on his hips. "We've already sent a score of mages to Ostagar."

"Those mages are to work with the King's forces." Duncan stepped into the room and indicated Elle should follow. "Irving has written me about a good prospect for the Grey Wardens. I believe his name was Rance Amell?"

"He's locked up as well," Greagoir mumbled.

"I told you he was acting by my command, Greagoir. None of us knew Jowan was a blood mage. Not even Uldred." Irving motioned for them to sit at his table. "Please arrange for Rance to be released and allowed to join us. He should have the option to stay or leave the Circle in service to the Grey Wardens."

Elle smiled at Greagoir. The distinguished Knight-Commander appealed to her … in her "twisted sense of attraction" that Fergus always accused her of since Nathaniel left. "Knight-Commander, we overheard you mention a healer." She looked over to Duncan. "Correct me if I am wrong, Warden-Commander, wouldn't a healer be of interest to the Grey Wardens as well?"

"Just as it would for the army, Greagoir." Duncan nodded toward Irving. "The First Enchanter is certain he isn't a maleficar … just a flight risk because he has a fear of being locked in the Tower. Allow him to join us and it would be our duty to make certain he stays where he's told."

"And, he would no longer be your problem, Knight-Commander." Elle gave him one of her most sincere smiles.

She couldn't believe that it worked. Greagoir gave her a smile … a small one, to be sure … but the corners of his mouth did curve up. Then, he sighed. "Very well." He turned and left Irving's office.

Irving chuckled quietly. "If you were a mage, young lady, I would accuse you of blood magic to turn him like that."

"I'm certain you took all the wind from his sails before we even stepped inside, First Enchanter." She leaned forward. "Are you sure you don't have at least one more?"

That got a laugh out of both men. Irving added, "And you haven't conscripted her yet? You're falling down on the job, Duncan."

"At this point, it would be risky to press Teyrn Cousland's good will towards the Wardens that way … but I agree that Lady Cousland would make a fine Grey Warden."

"I truly appreciate the compliment, Duncan! I do!" Then Elle turned to Irving. "I was also wondering if I could have a short visit with Leorah. I knew her in Highever."

"I think that could be arranged." Irving called in a Templar, Ser Cullen, to show her to Leorah's assigned responsibility. Ser Cullen was called away and Leorah opened the heavy doors to the stockroom ... her world in the tower ... and started to show Elle around.

Once they were alone, Elle asked, "How are you doing here, Leorah?"

"Actually, I love it here. The Ferelden Circle is much more tolerant than Kirkwall or Starkhaven. I do miss my freedom and my friends, but they let me send and receive letters now. Of course, they read everything I send out first." She chuckled.

"Ah, well, there goes my idea of a contact inside the tower," Elle whispered.

Leorah's eyes twinkled as she showed Elle to a chest in the middle of a number of shelves. She looked around and then opened the chest. After rummaging around for a bit, Elle heard a click. Leorah took out a sheaf of parchments from a hidden compartment in the chest, folded them quietly and shoved them in Elle's hands. "That's a code page. I have a copy in a different location. I'll try to get permission to write to you. We'll see how that goes," she whispered as Elle shoved the parchments into a special pocket inside her armor jacket.

Elle no sooner finished straightening her armor when the door creaked open and Ser Cullen walked in. "The First Enchanter has asked for you Lady Cousland ... if you're finished with your visit." His face flushed a bit in embarrassment. Elle assumed it was because he didn't know her, but when he explained that Elle shouldn't be in the stockroom, she knew the reason. He was a nice man who didn't seem to enjoy correcting wrong-doing ... she wondered how he possibly got to join the Order!

By the time she got back to Irving's office, Duncan had spoken with Rance and Anders, both who were definitely interested in leaving the tower and becoming Grey Wardens.

It turned out that there were certain protocols and arrangements to be met to release both mages. Elle, Midnight and Duncan returned to their respective rooms at the Spoiled Princess to bed down for the night and then collected Rance and Anders in the morning. There was no mention of a third mage, but they did get two instead of one! Duncan purchased two horses from a farm just outside the small village of Kinloch and the five of them headed south again.

"Andraste be praised! I can see the sun and breathe fresh air!" Anders had a grin from ear to ear. Elle greatly approved of Anders' good humor and smile.

Rance, on the other hand, would need some time to adjust. "Speak for yourself, Anders. I was taken to the Circle over fifteen years ago. I'm having to get used to all of this."

Elle stopped and looked through her saddlebags. She handed Rance a hood made from lightweight fabric. "This is certainly not enchanted, but it will keep the sun from your eyes and it's light enough to allow the breezes to be felt. You are very light-skinned. Sunburn will make you miserable, I assure you."

"Thank you!" Rance brightened up and slipped on the hood, pulling it forward slightly. "Unless we start riding faster, it should stay put. Of course, if we ride any faster, I'll be in the dirt before too long."

Anders chuckled. "That was very nice of you, Lady Cousland."

"Please, all of you, call me Elle." She waved her hand to the surroundings. "And, I adore riding through the countryside."

"My first adventure abroad found me sunburned and quite miserable." Anders sighed. "That was before I had learned any healing spells. It caused me to pay more attention in Wynne's classes after they dragged me back. Wynne is down in Ostagar now. Maybe we can get in a few lessons about appropriate spells for wardens there."

"I think we can arrange for you to spend some time with Wynne." Duncan chuckled when Anders and Rance looked surprised. "I've known her for quite some time. Scolded me once or twice, too."

"That's our Wynne!" Anders grinned.

Rance sighed. "I wish I had paid more attention now. My bottom is already sore."

"Not to worry! I'll show you some easy spells on our way there." Anders smiled and actually tilted his head up toward the sun. "I was never meant to live inside all the time."

With Anders occasional rejuvenation spells, they all arrived at the planned camp spot feeling better than when they left Kinloch. Duncan slid off his horse and was about to slip off the saddle when his head whipped around. "Darkspawn nearby. A small group. No emissaries … I'll explain later what that means." He showed the mages how to hobble their horses by the stream. "Do you know how to use that bow, Lad … Elle?"

"I do, indeed! But, my blades work better." Elle winked at Duncan.

He just shook his head. "Stay back, the three of you. If they get past me, Elle, you may be forced to use those blades to protect the mages." Duncan stepped up to Elle. "Keep your mouth closed unless you wish to join the Grey Wardens as well. Their blood carries the Taint."

Elle opened her mouth to say something, but then decided to snap it shut.

Four genlocks ran from the underbrush straight for Duncan. It was like they just sprouted from the ground! Elle had seen illustrations of them and read some descriptions, all in preparation of Father and Fergus having to go to fight them. The illustrations and words did not do justice. Ugly buggers. Elle told Midnight to stay by her … in reserve. She could tell her brave mabari was not happy about it. Neither was she, actually.

Soon two of the genlocks were frozen by magic. "Good job!" Elle shouted. "However, be sure to tell Duncan what you're about to do so he won't get caught in the way in future."

Much to her excitement, three arrows later, one of the genlocks shattered like ice thrown from a cliff.

Rance moved around behind one that was still fighting Duncan. "Fire blast!" he cried as he set the genlock on fire. The genlock turned to Rance and Duncan ran him through from the back.

"Good job!" Duncan seemed pleased at their ability to work together.

In the meantime, Elle wasn't able to shatter the other genlock icicle with only two arrows before it thawed. It turned toward the woman who was holding the bow that shot two arrows into its back. It grinned at Elle; however, she surmised that was the permanent state of its face.

Duncan was busy with the fourth genlock. Even though an arrow or two might have finished off the genlock with two arrows in its back, Elle unsheathed her rapier and main gauche. Careful to keep her mouth closed, she ran toward the angry darkspawn and deftly sliced off its head by using a scissors motion on its neck. Fortunately, it died before it could perform any offensive act. Unfortunately, darkspawn ichor spurted everywhere. Elle had failed to put those consequences into her plan.

Duncan killed the last one and ran up to her. "Did you swallow any of it?!"

She only shook her head to the negative.

He pointed to the stream. "Go downstream a bit, take everything off and wash down. Carefully wash every bit of armor and weapons." Duncan looked a bit angry. He threw up his hands as she walked away with her head down. "I told you to stay back!"

She was angry that he yelled at her … angry at herself that she failed to follow his instructions … embarrassed that she didn't perform everything he demanded she do. The very cold stream had swift currents that would hopefully freeze and dilute anything she doused in it. She noticed Duncan watching her, but only looking for any obvious taint Elle couldn't see herself. She decided to pretend he wasn't there. That he didn't need to be there. After washing down, she sat on the bank for a while.

Maker knew she did not want to become a Grey Warden without any recourse! Why did I do something flashy and stupid like that?! she berated herself. Fergus used to cover for her when they were young, but he wasn't here and would likely not be there in future. Elle prided herself on her clear thinking and level head … but she had this … this … berserker death wish sometimes. It was like her brain just temporarily disconnected. She could hear her trainer. Consequences, Elethea Cousland! Consequences!

It was a life lesson she needed to pay more attention to!

Darkness was nearing. She didn't want to make Duncan come back to get her, so she donned her now pristine armor and gathered up her weapons. She took a deep breath and headed back to the camp. They had set the darkspawn corpses to burn. At least the darkspawn smelled like an untainted body when cremated, as horrible as that was. The camp was completely set up and dinner cooking on the fire … looked to be several small animals on a spit. They all looked up at her when she entered camp.

"Now, I hope you all took to lesson about how not to fight darkspawn unless you are a Grey Warden!" she said as she walked up to turn the meat, a pleasant look on her face.

Anders laughed. "She is absolutely unflappable."

Elle smiled at him in appreciation. "Oh, not true. I did do quite a bit of flapping back there downstream." She turned to Duncan. "I apologize, Duncan."

He strode toward her, pulled off her gauntlets and pushed up her armor to see her arms. Then, he pushed back her hair to carefully look at her neck. Feet and legs next. He took a breath that he seemed to be holding. "No sign of the taint … yet. But, we must be vigilant over the next few days."

"What about the rest of her body?" Rance asked. Elle could tell he was truly concerned and not being prurient.

Duncan chuckled. "I viewed those areas while she was bathing. I do believe she knew I was there."

"Oooo, can I check tomorrow?" Anders asked. When Elle sent him a scathing look, he fell backwards off the log where he was sitting. "Ow! That look could truly kill someone!"

Everyone laughed, but Elle sobered first. She sat on an adjacent log. "I truly am sorry to have ignored your warnings, Duncan. It set a poor example for your recruits."

"Heh," Rance laughed. "Keep it up and you'll be a recruit, too."

"I am aware of that, Warden." She looked at Duncan. "Recruits are addressed as 'Warden', yes?"

"Yes," Duncan took one of the meats off a spit and cut it into manageable pieces. "You are wardens from the moment you are recruited. While you were away, Elle, each recruit collected a vial of darkspawn blood to be used during the Joining ceremony." He frowned. "I collected one for you as well … just in case. Hopefully, you will not need it."

That peeked Elle's curiosity and Duncan looked like he wished he hadn't said that. "So, you can cure the blight sickness by becoming a Grey Warden?"

"The short answer is, 'No'. You also need to be able to survive life as a Grey Warden. If you cannot, it is no mercy." He sighed. "Like I said on the way to the Tower, the life of a Grey Warden is dangerous, unglamorous, thankless. It is also short. Thirty years, more or less. Becoming a Grey Warden does not cure the blight sickness, but it does delay it. I, myself, have only a few more years before I go on what we refer to as The Calling. We go to Orzammar, partake of a sumptuous feast with the dwarves, and enter the Deep Roads to bravely fight darkspawn until they overpower us."

Rance looked very nervous. "No wonder you don't put that on your recruitment posters." He stared at Duncan. "I had no idea. I'm sorry, Duncan."

That made Duncan laugh. "No, never say you're sorry. There's no guarantee that any Grey Warden even survives that long. Our life is dangerous, remember?"

Elle took one crispy meal down and started to break it apart. "'In War, Victory; In Peace, Vigilance; In Death, Sacrifice' … the Grey Warden motto."

"Maker, that sounds ominous," Anders chuckled and then got serious. "My mother would tell me that I had the blood of a good man in my veins. I never knew my father. She said to always do what I thought was right. She even repeated it as a neighbor led the Templars to us." He looked up, smiled and grabbed a bit of some cooled meat. "I think she would be proud of me being a Grey Warden. It certainly got me out of that tower!"

"And, it will keep you out of that tower … unless you need to return for Grey Warden business." Duncan smiled at the healer. "Like recruiting new Grey Wardens."

Rance only stared into the fire. "My parents all but begged the Templars to take their mage curse away. It took me a while to get over that betrayal." He smiled at Anders. "Without the help of everyone else in the tower … everyone else who had been dragged into the Circle by the Templars … I don't think I'd have been even considered to become a Grey Warden."

"Surprisingly enough, there is a Chantry Mother who resides in the Highever Castle chapel who told me that the Maker sets everyone on a path. Everyone … of every race … mage or not." Elle rubbed her lower leg. "When I was six, I fell and broke my leg. My mother called on a friend of hers in the city to come and heal it. This friend was in the Mage Collective. I was fascinated by magic after that. I really loved her." Then, Elle turned sad. "The Highever Chantry found out about her and dragged her to the Circle." She looked at Anders and Rance. "It's been many years since then, but I did get to visit with Leorah for a few minutes yesterday."

Anders smiled. "She guards the storerooms below the tower … really, caves with heavy shelving in them … like a mama bear guards her cubs." He looked around like he feared a Templar might jump out of a nearby bush. "She helped me get away a couple times. The Templars reinforced the delivery door to the storerooms after the second time." When Duncan gave him a glance, he added, "Don't worry, Duncan. As long as you don't lock me in a fetid dungeon and leave me there to rot, I won't be running away from you."

"Not a chance of that anyway, Anders," Elle said cheerily. She decided to keep private what Leorah had shared with her for the time being. "Have you seen Duncan run? Maker, he'd have you caught and bound before you went ten steps!"

At least, that made Duncan smile … maybe he wasn't still mad at her for being stupid.

Once everyone had eaten their fill, they went to sleep with watches established. Rance even knew a few magical traps he could lay around the camp that would alert them of trespassers … fortunately, there were none.

...

AN: Rance Amell and Anders will join at Ostagar in this quirky timestream — as things lined up just a bit differently. We'll see how any future realignments play out. ;)

Next week, we get to see a little bit more of Elle's frustrating intellect and perception ... along with the mages. I always wondered why no one figured some things out along the way! hehe

The Invisible Pretender, yes ... chapter length ... the bane of writers. Some chapters will be longer, some shorter. My goal is to find a good place to break. Sleep works for this one! :) And, Duncan can be charming without flirting. ;) Thank you for your kind words!