The Caravan Moves On
Elle had absolutely no idea what Avernus was talking about with Anders, but Anders seemed to understand it. That was all that was important to Elle … well, that and she was on the lookout for any undue blood magic influence of Anders. As she listened to their conversation, it all seemed on the up and up … until the end when Avernus slumped to the floor … dead.
"Maker's Breath!" Elle started for the door to get help.
"Stop, Elle." Anders had a sad look on his face as he took off his cloak and draped it over Avernus' body. "He knew his time was short once the demons were gone."
"You mean … the demons kept him alive?" Elle had suspected that. "But, why did he close the Veil if he knew he would die?"
"I think he was just tired of it all. He trusted that I would take up the torch of his research. This stuff is pretty amazing, Elle," Anders replied.
"Such as?" Elle asked.
"For one thing, the Joinings shouldn't be quite so lethal with his formula. That one is pretty straightforward and should be ready to go soon. Hopefully, we can get a mage from the Tower to Join and start working on this stuff right away. I have a few mages in mind. A different formula of his magnifies warden abilities, but it's complicated and needs a lot of testing first. Probably not going to be available any time soon."
He picked up a sheaf of pages. "These outline his studies on broodmothers, whatever they are. On inference, they sound like darkspawn breeding stock." Both Anders and Elle shuddered. "It'll need to be studied, too. This will take a while. There might be something here to help with making future Blights less deadly." Anders took a deep breath. "If these formulas turn out doable, it's all very promising to make wardening more appealing and less tragic."
Elle put her hand on his shoulder. "Are you all right, Anders?"
He sighed and looked around. "All of this is just so sad and tragic. On every floor. In every room. We need to set up a memorial of some kind so we don't forget this tragedy. We can put all the ashes there … including Avernus'. Even Arland's soldiers. They were just following orders."
"Excellent idea, Anders. Once the storm has blown over, that should be high on the list for whomever takes command here." Elle nodded and then helped Anders carry Avernus' body through the structure.
Marna found an old, clean tablecloth for a shroud for the ancient warden mage. Afterwards, they were able to walk around and have a few discussions of where a good place for a memorial — as well as a future garden. The storm held off just long enough.
...
At dinner on one of the following evenings, Levy told Anders and Elle, "Mikhael says that he has an idea to put in a series of metal shelves along the wall next to the gate. The wardens could put the urns of fallen wardens there as a memorial. Maybe even a sanctified pyre stone just outside the gate where we performed the pyres a few days ago." Not as grand as Elle expected the mausoleum of Weisshaupt to be, but respectful and memorable.
Anders got out his ever-expanding sheaf of parchment to send to Duncan and Ramara and added that to the list. "That's a great idea." Then, Anders grinned. "By the time the barn and stable are built we should have an answer."
Levy laughed. "Oh yes, Warden, that barn and stable are absolutely the first on the list whether anyone gives us permission to build it or not."
"Don't worry about that," Elle said. "Anders has made it clear the barn and stable are Mikhael's gifts to the Grey Wardens. From the short time I've known Duncan, I'm certain he'll be grateful for the gesture ... for all your gestures."
The blustery storm took five and a half days to blow out. Such was the way of storms in Ferelden, especially at higher elevations as the Peak. But, the solid stone fortress withstood it as if it were a pleasant summer breeze. Unfortunately, the odors from the animals stabled on the ground floor got a bit overwhelming. By the time the storm was over, Mikhael had everyone volunteering to assist him in building it as quickly as possible!
When anyone had to cross over the ramparts to the Warden Mage Tower (pending Duncan's approval for the naming), it was problematic. Anders said he'd heard about some force magic that might be worked into a rune somehow to temporarily pull up a covering during bad weather. He'd have to look into it.
However, those five and half days were very productive, for various motivations. Some good things had been found and good plans made for the Peak. Anders and Elle tore apart Sophia's office and found a large secret room filled with several chests full of sovereigns and racks of enchanted weapons.
Anders found a sword that was better than any staff he'd ever used to focus his magic … but he preferred his staff. He found some enchanted cloth armor, but preferred his robe. Maker, he's almost as stubborn as me! Elle laughed to herself.
They found some enchanted armor for non-mages, as well … to add to the enameled plate set that Sophia's demon was wearing. Mikhael cleaned it up and proclaimed it fit for Duncan to wear. Elle snickered to herself, Good luck getting him to give up that fine, flexible brigandine.
The sovereigns would go a long way to fixing up the Peak, but that was a decision for Duncan … so, Elle and Anders just closed up the secret room again and decided to keep quiet about it.
When the storm finally blew itself out, Anders sent a runner down to Ostagar and another runner with a copy to Ramara in Denerim. They were charged with delivering a rather lengthy letter Elle and Anders wrote about the place. At Elle's suggestion, Anders was going to stay at the Peak until another warden arrived to take over command. Elle assigned Soren and a few of the Highever soldiers to stay and help Anders.
So, several days after the storm passed, Varric, Gorim, Genitivi, Midnight and Elle along with the rest of the Highever soldiers headed out toward the seat of the teyrnir. Conveniently, they soon met up with Teyrn Cousland, Zevran, Matin, Ser Aggilana, and the Teyrn's guards. The journey to Highever only took a little over five days.
The evenings around the campfires were filled with highly embellished tales of what had happened at the Peak. For example, Elle could not recall "visions" of ghosts speaking to each other about the hostilities. But, the stories were very entertaining and Varric was well-received. He did great justice to putting heroic words into ghost Sophia's speeches … sadly, even by proclaiming, "Whatever it takes!" in her orders to Avernus. Varric wisely left out that the order was to use blood magic. He also told of the consequences. The part of the story about the servants and the children left no one with a dry eye.
Elle wondered how the Ostagar wardens would take the tale.
Gorim finally opened up a bit. He told Elle the reason he was asking about Odonna Aeducan. She had been the middle child of King Endrin. The youngest sibling had framed her for the assassination of the eldest. Dwarf politics seemed quite deadly! Also, it became apparent that Gorim had deeper feelings for the woman he had served as second. "Anyway, she was sent to the Deep Roads with nothing but a sword and I was exiled to the surface. I suggested she find Duncan and join the Grey Wardens, but Ramara hadn't heard anything about her." Gorim looked very sad.
Elle's heart ached for the loyal dwarf. "Well, maybe she did, Gorim, but just not with Duncan. I've read about the Legion of the Dead. She might have joined them … or maybe she ran into Warden Alistair and his group." She squeezed his hand, rough and calloused from fighting. "We'll make a point to find out when we go to Orzammar."
That caused Gorim to chuckle. "I wish I had your optimism, my lady." Then, he smiled. "Thank you for getting me away from old Salas." He paused a moment and then added, "Until we find Odonna again, I would like to serve as your second … if you'll have me."
Elle was touched beyond belief. "I would be honored, Gorim … but only until we find Odonna."
She now had a storyteller and a Second. Such heights she was reaching lately! Interesting that both were dwarves.
While still en route, Bryce and Elle put their heads together to see what assistance Highever could give to Soldier's Peak. Sadly, with having to repair the Vigil and Highever's city, there wasn't much left … other than a promise to help confirm the deed of the fortress back to the wardens and lend Soren and the other Highever guards to the wardens until they could recruit or hire their own.
Then, they finally made it to that hill right before the vista of Highever. Elle didn't hesitate this time and the view was beautiful. The sky was clear, except for a few puffy clouds and the Ferelden and Highever banners flew high on the ramparts of the castle. Father and daughter smiled as they rode up to the castle with the sounds of activity and rebuilding in the city.
Fergus met them in the courtyard and said he would be leaving for Ostagar by the end of the week, more or less. The men and supplies were almost ready to go … only awaiting the arrival of the Teyrn. The Teyrna had been busy with some of the nearby landowners and the city repairs, so Fergus thought it wiser to wait. She had only returned the night before and was awaiting Elle in the family quarters.
"I'm glad you waited, big brother!" Elle smiled. "Now, you will have my company for the trip as well!"
Fergus frowned and turned to his father. "I think we should lock her in her room until the Blight is over, Father. You know she's just going to up and volunteer for the Grey Wardens."
Bryce gave Elle a sad look. "Our Pup is old enough to make her own decisions, Fergus."
Elle gave them both a firm hug. "Now, as happy as I am to see you both, I'd better check in with Mother." Keeping Eleanor Cousland waiting was never a good idea!
The castle was bustling and packed with rebuilding materials and workman. A good deal of the more valuable materials were kept in the castle so there were a number of runners heading to and fro. Several of the townspeople stopped to pet Midnight, much to his joy. Waiting for her at the top of the ramp to the family quarters was Roddy. "How are you doing, Ser Gilmore?"
He put his fists on his hips and had a concerned look on his face. "The question we all want answered, m'lady, is how you are doing?" Then he smiled, "You don't have to answer it for me, but I thought I'd warn you before you walk into the family parlor. Both your mother and Nan await you."
She hugged Gilmore, her unofficial second brother. "Thanks for the warning, but I already had a feeling that was the agenda." She pulled out of the hug and took a deep breath. "I'm doing … better. Wish me luck."
"You'll be fine. Nan's made a lot of your favorites ... redberry juice, spice cake and baked apples with brandy sauce." He laughed as Elle squealed and ran up ramp.
At the top, she turned and shook her finger at him. "You'd better not be lying, Roddy!" But, she didn't stop to give him time for a retort.
Elle took a few moments to gather herself before she burst in the door into the arms of her mother and Nan. "To answer the question I know you want to ask ... I'm doing better than I was a month or so ago."
Eleanor motioned toward the fireplace with the large chairs and sofa surrounding a five-sided table laden with the promised treats. "Grab some food and start talking, my darling girl."
And, that was exactly what she did. Elle knew better than to sugar-coat any of the details. She told them the entire story about Nathaniel, from the time he surprised her at Highever House in Denerim until ... the end. She paused in her munching of spice cake and gave the half-eaten piece to Midnight. "There were several days where I just ... disconnected, you know? But, I reconnected and got busy. There is just too much to do at this time. And, here I am." She grinned. "I now have a 'personal historian' storyteller and a 'second' who is almost as protective as Midnight." She turned to Midnight, "Wouldn't you agree, my brave boy?"
Midnight's bark to the affirmative brought smiles to everyone's faces.
Nan nodded. "I thank you for including me in the telling, m'lady. Your mother and I have been worried sick." Then, she stood, "But, I need to get back to the kitchens! That monumental caravan you brought with you ... that no one knew was that large ... will be hungry!"
Elle stood and hugged Nan before Nan rushed off to the kitchen. Then, she turned back and sat next to her mother on the small couch. "You've been awfully quiet, Mother. I know you never held Nathaniel in high regard."
Eleanor tilted her head up and looked at the ceiling. Then, she got up and paced around a few minutes while her daughter stuffed another piece of spice cake into her mouth. Finally, Eleanor said, "I simply cannot find any kind words to say about either Nathaniel or Rendon. I spent a short time with Thomas and Delilah before they all left for Denerim after Rendon's execution. At the time, none of us knew that Nathaniel would be waiting for them in Denerim." She folded her arms and sat on the arm of the couch. "They both despised their father and older brother as much as I did, you know. Thomas agreed that Nathaniel was under Rendon's orders long before your betrothal and Nathaniel's exile to Ostwick."
"Ah, I wondered whether I should mention Tom's opinions to Father or not," Elle said quietly.
"He knows what they said, but, without some kind of evidence or corroborating testimony, he's not inclined to believe it. Damn his peacemaker soul," Eleanor said with a smile which soon faded. "You've told me what happened, but you still haven't told me how you feel now."
Elle took a deep breath and slouched back on the couch. "I think that Nathaniel was involved with Rendon for at least a few months before all the overt treasonous acts went down, but I don't think Nathaniel felt that way before he was exiled." She looked at her mother. "I believe he loved me, Mother. I believe something happened that changed that, and I have a theory about that. I believe that, in addition to Rendon's influence, Nathaniel was being controlled by blood magic. There was evidence for that fact. I believe that the Kendells were working with Rendon to see that Nathaniel was changed." She sighed. "And, I have absolutely no evidence ... other than a vial of Nathaniel's blood in a Tevinter blood mage lair ... or testimony that those things are true." She reached over and took her mother's hands. "I'm not completely all right ... but I'm getting there, Mother."
Before Eleanor could respond, they were blessed with Oren running through the door with a wooden sword. "Poppers says you might join the Grey Wardens! I'll volunteer for the wardens with you, Auntie! The Archdemon won't stand a chance against my sword of truthiness!"
"Well, then! We need to go practice!" Elle grinned at her mother who was shaking her head … but had a smile on her face, too.
Earlier, she got Fergus' opinion loud and clear. She always knew her parents wouldn't like it if she joined the Wardens … or, Maker forbid … died from the ghastly Joining formula. However, the day she turned twenty, they told her that all her decisions … for good or ill … were hers to make from then on. Unusual for most noble families — especially the marriageable female children — but not so for Bryce and Eleanor Cousland. Elle was very grateful for her parents. Of course, if she had been the heir, things would have been different. But, Fergus was very happy with Oriana and Oren. Being the heir was just fine with him.
The short practice with Oren went very well! The lad had picked up a great deal just from watching the soldiers spar. When the two of them were done, Elle motioned for Oren to follow her. She took him up to the ramparts on the southern wall. The view was beautiful. "I've always liked to come up here … ever since I was your age. You can see all the lands nearby. And, if you come up here at different times of the year, you'll see the plantings and the harvest and the lush and colorful mid-season crops … and, of course, the snow and mud! This is Ferelden, after all."
Oren looked thoughtful for a moment. "Are you going to try to talk me out of joining the wardens, Auntie?"
"Absolutely not! That would make me twelve kinds of hypocrite if I did." Elle just stood facing outward in one of the crenellations with her crossed arms.
"I just believe it's my duty to protect Ferelden," the boy said proudly.
Elle turned and sat in the crenellation. She smiled at Oren. "It is always our duty to protect Ferelden, Oren." Then, she sighed. "However, that isn't the only duty we have, is it?"
"No." He stepped closer and asked quietly, "Are you really going to join the wardens?"
She huffed. "To be completely honest with you, Oren, I'm not certain. Father and Fergus obviously do not want me to, but neither of them has forbidden me. It didn't come up with Mother yet ... but, I'm told, it was her idea to allow me to make my own decisions when I reached twenty years of age. So, I don't think she'd weigh in either way, truthfully."
"They couldn't talk you out of it for the same reason?" He smiled.
"Know why they didn't even try?" she asked.
When Oren just shook his head, she continued, "Because they trust me to make the right decision for me … for the Cousland family … for Ferelden. It's not a simple thing to balance all those things out. For example, you have a duty to protect Ferelden, but you also have a duty to remain the heir for your father. Someday, you'll be Teyrn of Highever. You have a duty to your mother, not to unduly cause her worry. You have a duty to yourself, also, my boy."
"That sounds selfish," he replied with a frown.
"Indeed, it is! You are right! But, it can be the most important of all of them." Elle became a bit wistful. "Mother told me long ago that my happiness was my responsibility. No one else could make me happy, nor should I expect them to." She chuckled when he got a smile on his face. "Now, at first, I thought, 'Oh boy! I can do whatever makes me happy!' Do you know what I found out?"
"What?"
"Being true to myself meant being thoughtful of consequences. If I were to go haring off, being irresponsible and deplorable, it wouldn't make me happy."
"Why not?"
"Because, my dear Oren … I found out that having everyone respect me and my decisions made me the happiest. Keeping that in mind is my primary duty."
"So, I probably shouldn't join the Grey Wardens … just yet." Oren grinned. "I will think more on it. Do you think Poppers and Grandfather will respect me and my decision?"
She knelt down and hugged her nephew as Fergus reached the top of the stairs. "I think they will, Oren." She pulled back to look at his face. "Think about this again next week and I believe you'll discover that your decision in this instance did make you happy." She nodded toward Fergus.
"Poppers!" Oren ran to Fergus who picked up his son and hugged him tightly.
"Mama is looking for you, Oren. Tell her we'll be there soon." Fergus watched his son scamper to the stairs down and then turned to Elle with a warm smile on his face. "We thank you for that."
"Nonsense. I did nothing. Oren came to that decision all on his own." She huffed and turned away again to look at the just-harvested fields. "I am still making up my mind, Fergus. It just seems …." She turned to face him. "It just seems like a Cousland should be a Grey Warden during a time of Blight, don't you think?"
"Why does it have to be you, little sister? We have cousins, you know," he asked as he crossed his arms.
"Mother and Father are going to be busy making certain the North stays strong." She jabbed her finger in Fergus' chest. "You are the heir! You shouldn't even be leading the soldiers down there!"
As usual for the pair of siblings, they just let the matter drop when the aroma of Nan's cooking wafted up to them … so they just headed down to dinner.
...
The week or so of days awaiting the newly recruited soldiers being evaluated, trained and ready to march was busy for everyone. Fergus had done a terrific job of recruiting in the north. Loghain even sent a brief note of congratulations, urging them to hurry.
Gorim offered to help Roddy in the training. Elle felt sorry for the recruits assigned to Gorim. He was a serious taskmaster! Varric's stories about Gorim were well-received by the tired and sore fighters learning under the ex-Warrior Caste training regime.
One good thing was that Anders caught up to the Highever group the day before they all planned to depart. Warden Ramara sent several wardens up to Soldier's Peak to take control of the operations there.
Elle was sad to hear that the treasury at Soldier's Peak was going to be delivered back to Denerim rather leaving it there for the Peak's restoration. However, Anders had already met the wardens who had come to relieve him and they were sorely impressed with the place. The barn and stables were almost finished! In fact, the Denerim wardens were so impressed that they kept one of the chests and sent along a list of required materials for the restructuring of the fortress … payment upon delivery. It sounded like it was going to be grand, indeed!
As long as the Blight didn't take Ferelden.
…
AN: Next time, Genitivi spills the beans about his destination!
Wow, with the lovely favorites, follows and alerts for What Have We Here, I guess I need to get back to that one soon, too. Thanks to TheChronicleLover and Marika Haliwell for adding WHWH to their lists! :)
Marika Haliwell, I know your review was for WHWH, but hopefully, you'll catch my thanks here. Such nice things you say! :)
The Invisible Pretender, I hope you enjoyed the bit more I added to the top of this chapter. Thanks for the review! :)
Guest, okay, one vote for a snarky female mage Champion … if one shows up here. (And, if my Google Translates did it right) ;) Thanks for the review!
