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Chapter 22: Epilogue

Malcolm lays on the bed, wearing only the bottom of his armor while Leliana and Goliath sit and wait for him to wake up, as they have done since the day before. Leliana rests her head on his body, his shallow breathing keeping her hopeful as she gently holds his hand and closes her eyes. Malcolm's fingers twitch a little before he suddenly gasps loudly and opens his eyes, his body shaking. Leliana and Goliath shoot up and Leliana gently holds his hand and places her other hand on his cheek. "Hey, hey. It's alright. You're safe, you're alive." Malcolm closes his eyes and leans his head into her hand as he takes deep breaths. "You're in Denerim."

Goliath gently puts his front paws on the bed while Malcolm gently holds her hand. "That… was the worse pain I've ever felt… nothing can compare…"

She smiles before leaning over and gently kisses his forehead. "You've been out for a day. You did it."

He sighs. "Then the Blight is done."

And then it was over. With the archdemon dead, the darkspawn horde quickly crumbled. Most fled back into the Deep Roads. They would remain a threat in the years to come, but the Blight had been ended before it had truly begun. Ferelden had been saved, and the entire kingdom rose up to joyously greet its new king. The Grey Wardens stood redeemed, and a new age had begun. But at what cost?

Malcolm stands on the bottom of the steps to the throne while Alistair stands at the top with Eamon off to the side a bit. The group had all survived and only Morrigan was missing, true to her word. "My friends," Alistair addresses the room, filled with other nobles, "we are gathered to celebrate those responsible for our victory. Of those who stood against the darkspawn siege of Denerim, there is one in particular who deserves commendation. The one who led the final charge against the archdemon remains with us still, an inspiration to all he saved that day." Alistair motions for Malcolm to come up and he complies. Malcolm stands next to Alistair and faces the room as he continues. "Ladies and gentlemen, may I present to you, the Hero of Ferelden, the latest Grey Warden to defeat the Blight since Garahel four centuries ago." Malcolm gives a small bow as most of the people cheer for him, only Sten and Shale give no reaction while Halia, who is standing in a corner, smiles and gives a small clap. Alistair turns to face Malcolm. "My friend, it is hard to imagine how you could have aided Ferelden more. I think it only appropriate that I return the favor. Is there any boon that you might request of Ferelden's king? If it is within my power, I will grant it."

Malcolm looks at him. "I will only ask that the sacrifices of the Wardens should not be forgotten again."

Alistair nods. "Now that's a very good point. I think we can begin with a monument here in Denerim, dedicated to the Grey Wardens who have fallen-Duncan, Riordan, all of them. And it is high time some scholars were collected to learn more about the darkspawn. We'll face them again, with the dwarves as well as here." He turns to face the room before taking a few steps forward. "Let it also be known that the arling of Amaranthine, once the land of Arl Howe, is now granted to the Grey Wardens. There they can rebuild, following the example of those who went before them." He turns to look at Malcolm. "What are your plans? Will you remain with the Grey Wardens?"

Malcolm looks at the crowd, specifically at Leliana before looking at Alistair. "In peace, vigilance. In war, victory. In death, sacrifice. This is what it means to be a Grey Warden, and that is what I am. I intend to train at the Circle for a while, but I will be there, the Wardens need me."

Alistair smiles and nods. "That they do. I'm glad at least one of us is staying with them." He turns his head and looks at the doors at the end of the room. "Oh, there's a group of Ferelden citizens waiting outside to get a look at their hero." He looks back at Malcolm. "I suggest you make at least a brief appearance before they storm the gate." He chuckles and shakes his head a little. "Just tell the guard at the door when you're ready." Malcolm smiles and nods as the crowd disperses and begin to talk amongst themselves in groups and Halia walks up to join the two. Alistair smiles as he wraps his arm around her waist and she leans into him. "So we made it. I'm impressed, aren't you two? The odds were completely against one of us actually getting to the archdemon…" he looks at Malcolm, "but of course you would make it. I knew you would." He looks down before back up and Malcolm could guess what he was about to ask. "I just don't understand how you're still alive. I guess Riordan was wrong?"

Malcolm crosses his arms and shakes his head. "He wasn't wrong, Morrigan confirmed it. And she saved me."

Alistair's eyes widen. "I had no idea. I suppose that makes sense. Speaking of Morrigan, do you know where she went? I'm told she vanished right after the battle. No good-byes or anything."

Halia nods. "After the explosion that… normally would have killed you, I couldn't find any trace of her on the rooftop."

Malcolm nods. "True to her word, she said that after the archdemon died, she would leave and doesn't want to be followed."

Alistair shakes his head. "Very dramatic. But I don't imagine that she'd easy to find if she didn't want to be." He looks at Halia. "So what are your plans?"

She looks up at him, then Malcolm, then back to Alistiar. "For a while, I'll travel with Lanaya and her clan. They deserve recognition for their efforts in stopping the Blight, and I hope that with my presence more humans are able to respect them for it. Then I'll join Malcolm," she looks at him, "if you'll have me."

Malcolm smiles and nods. "I'd be honored."

She smiles before looking up at Alistair. "But don't think you're off the hook." She leans up and kisses him. "Expect visits from me."

Alistair smiles and blushes a little due to being kissed in a very public event. "Well… I'm glad." He looks over and sees Arl Eamon looking at him and he sighs. "I can see Eamon giving me that look. More king stuff, I suppose. It can never wait." He looks at Malcolm and holds out his other arm. "And, if I don't get the chance some other time… thanks. For everything."

Malcolm smiles and clasps his arm. "Same to you, but thanks aren't really necessary." He gives his arm a small shake.

Alistair pulls his arm back before motioning to the room. "I'll let you get to your adoring public. They want to see the Hero of Ferelden, and who am I to keep them waiting?"

Malcolm smiles before walking down the stairs and towards Fergus. "Fergus."

He turns around and smiles as the two hug each other. "Malcolm." They pull back some and Fergus puts his hands on his shoulders. "When I heard that my little brother was not only a Grey Warden but also leading Ferelden into battle? I was surprised, to put it mildly." He looks down a little, with a sad smile. "Father…" he looks back up, "he would have been so proud of you. I know I am. You've done good."

Malcolm smiles a bit before it vanishes and he looks down. "I'm so sorry, about Oren and Oriana."

Fergus puts his hands down and looks off to the side and sighs. "Yes, I'm… trying not to think too much about them. Howe was a greedy, traitorous bastard. I just wish I'd been there to help you kill him." He looks back at Malcolm. "At least Amaranthine now belongs to the Wardens. There's some justice in that, I think."

"What happened to you? I tried to look for you."

"I never made it to the battle at Ostagar. We were still scouting in the Wilds when we were attacked by a group of darkspawn. Most of my men were killed. I woke up two weeks later in a Chasind hut, wounded and feverish. By the time I was able to sneak out of the Wilds, you were already marching to Denerim. I need to go back to Highever. See if I can clean up the mess Howe made of it. I will see you soon, I hope?"

Malcolm smiles and nods. "Of course you will. I may be a Warden now, but its still my home."

Fergus smiles. "Good." His smile darkens a little. "Highever won't be the same without… everyone around." He shakes his head and looks at Malcolm. "Take care of yourself, you hear? Or I'll find you and nag you like Mother did until you're ready to tear out your hair." They both smile as they give each other another hug.

Malcolm walks away, heading for Eamon as he watches Alistair interact with some people. He turns as he hears Malcolm coming and he turns, revealing that he has the Cousland Family Blade with him. "It is over. I can barely believe it. You stopped the civil war and then defeated the Blight. On behalf of Ferelden, allow me to say thank you. It truly cannot be said enough."

Malcolm smiles as he puts his arm across his chest and bows his head. "I'm a Grey Warden, it's what we do, milord."

Eamon chuckles and smiles. "So I'm learning." Malcolm stands up straight as he continues, "It's too back that you aren't remaining here in the capital. The hero of Ferelden would have influence. But I understand. Myself, I will be remaining here to help Alistair. Teagan will take over the rule of Redcliffe, at least for the time being. Connor seems well enough, and Isolde refuses to speak of what happened. She says she never want to go back. I… cannot thank you enough for saving them. They are the joy of my existence. But here I am rambling on." He holds up the sword and Malcolm takes it. "I shall let you get back to your celebration, Malcolm. Enjoy it while you can."

He nods before heading back to Fergus and holds it out for him. "Fergus, I no longer have any need for our family's sword. It has helped me in my quest and it would be fitting that the new Teyrn of Highever now wields it."

Fergus takes the sword and looks at him. "You used it to end Howe?" Malcolm nods. "Then I will take it. Now back to your celebration, brother."

Malcolm chuckles before walking away and walks over to Shale, who is just standing in a corner. She watches him walk over. "So it survived after all. My impression that all creatures made of flesh were hopelessly squishy was… premature."

Malcolm chuckles. "It's nice to be appreciated, thank you, Shale."

"It has made me revise my opinion of its kind-my kind… I am, or at least was, a dwarf. A creature of flesh. I have to keep reminding myself that. In fact, I think I may even try to become one again."

Malcolm tilts his head, unsure of what he just heard. "Come again?"

"Wynne has offered to accompany me to Tevinter, to speak with the mages there. The Circle of Minrathous has the largest collection of arcane knowledge in Thedas. If it is possible to reverse this… process… then the knowledge to do so will be there. Or that is my hope. And if not?" She shrugs her shoulders. "Then I will keep looking. I have nothing if not time, yes? I intend to return, eventually… unless I finally decide to destroy all pigeons everywhere. That may take a while. But otherwise, I will comeback. If it happens to one day see a tiny little dwarf who appears very nervous of being squished… that will be me. Until then, I wish it well. It-you have been a fine friend."

Malcolm smiles and nods. "Thank you, Shale."

He walks off before walking up behind Leliana and wraps his arms around her, she gasps and turns her head before giggling while Goliath and Schmooples interact with each other. "So here we are. The conquering hero has won the day, and now he takes his bow and exits the stage. A fine ending."

Malcolm smiles and rests his head on her shoulder. "But does the hero get his girl?"

She giggles some more. "Yes. Yes, he most certainly does." She smiles and they share an intimate kiss for a while before she pulls back and leans her head against his. "You know, I can't help now but think of my vision. The Maker sent me to help you, and look what you did. It's a miracle; it truly is."

"The Maker has done a lot for us, but nothing will be more important than bringing us together."

She giggles. "I can't argue with that. I love you, Mal."

"I love you too, Leli."

He kisses her deeply before she pulls back. "As much as I don't want to, I should let you get back to your celebration before someone drags you away. I look forward to seeing you again afterwards."

He smiles and kisses her once more before letting go and walking away heading to Wynne, who smiles as she watches him walk over. "'The Hero of Ferelden.' My, my. How does it feel?"

He crosses his arm. "Not too long ago I as a traitor responsible for Cailan's death. Now I'm the savior of the nation. It's a little strange."

She smiles. "Of that I have no doubt. It's a title you'll be wearing for a long time to come, just as Loghain wore his. But it's not so bad, is it? A Blight defeated with the other nations barely becoming aware. Who could ask for better?"

He looks around the room, seeing all but one who helped him along the way and he smiles. "I didn't do it on my own."

"I don't think many heroes ever do." He looks back at her. "I'm glad not to be on the receiving end of all this attention, myself. I say let the young have their fame. Not that I've gone without notice. Irving asked me to take over as First Enchanter, but I don't wish to go back. Not after all this. Instead, I've decided to travel. Shale has expressed a desire to go to Tevinter to look into a way to regain her mortality, and I will join her."

"Sound like fun. Just be careful please."

She smiles. "Your concern is touching and appreciated. I understand you will be heading to the Circle. I wish you good fortune during your time training there and wherever your journeys make take you afterwards. Give Irving my regards. And, Malcolm, if we do not see each other again… live well. And thank you, my friend."

Malcolm gives her a small bow before heading to Zevran, who is leaning against the wall. "I will be relieved when all this pomp and ceremony is done. Such events are perfect opportunities for assassins, after all. I can't help but expect the Crows to appear at any moment. Which would be a welcome break, mind you."

"You think the Crows will still come after you?"

He nods. "Eventually. With Taliesen dead, it may take them time to figure out what has happened… but they are like the tides. Predictable. You know, it does occur to me that staying in one place is only going to invite the Crows to find me that much quicker. While fun, that might eventually get… complicated. You said earlier that you were planning to head to the circle before returning to the Wardens. Is that true?"

"It is. But I'm afraid that they won't let me bring you in."

"Ah, that is too bad. Oh well… allow me to say that it has been my pleasure to help you with this threat and that may you find good fortune in your life."

Malcolm nods before heading to check on Sten. "It is good to see you again, kadan. These people… they call you 'hero.' It is a strange word, but I think I understand its meaning. The arishok on occasion has declared a qunari to be qunoran vehl, one who serves as an example to other. Such examples are always made after their death, however. A death in service to the Qun. A living qunoran vehl would be too proud."

Malcolm nods. "That does sound like what one would call a 'hero.' Do the qunari celebrate and put on parades?"

"When a qunoran vehl is declared, certainly. It is one of few occasions when the qunari are permitted to engage in… revelry. There is imbibing of spirits, public chanting, meditations abandoned… it is madness."

Malcolm smiles. "That would be quite a sight."

"It is… interesting. It can take days for the Ben-Hassrath to restore order. There may even be executions. I suppose I should tell you… I have decided to return to my people. Your quest is done, and thus so is my reason for accompanying you."

Malcolm crosses his arms. "That will be a long trip home, and we will miss you."

"Yes. It will be difficult to travel alone after… so much time spent with companions. It must be said: You found my sword and gave me a chance to restore my honor. I owe you a great debt."

"You helped me, as well. It's been good."

"It has. That one of the bas… a foreigner… would become known as kadan to me? Unthinkable. Yet here it is. Perhaps I shall see you again one day. Until then, may you always find the path you seek. Farewell, kadan."

Malcolm smiles and give Sten a respectful bow before heading to Oghren, who is, unsurprisingly, next to a keg with a tankard in his hand. He belches as Malcolm get close and he just smiles and shakes his head at his dwarven friend. "Humans have a better taste for spirits than I thought. Heh. The ale up here is actually good. Orzammar ale tastes like dirt in comparison. Probably because they put dirt in it. Go figure."

"Does that mean you're staying here?"

"Eh. For now. They may have already branded me a surfacer back home, anyhow. I'm getting used to that big sky up there. And I'm thinking I might just look up Felsi again… see where that goes?"

Malcolm smiles. "I'm glad. I hope you two are happy."

"Ha! I'll drink to that! Ah, well! Enough babbling. That pot-bellied sone of a whore Teagan said I'd pass out before drinking an entire barrel of pickle juice-I aim to prove him wrong."

Malcolm can't help but laugh. "Don't ever change, my friend."

Oghren laughs as well. "Who me? It's been good traveling with you, Warden. Don't get lost in the shuffle, now."

Malcolm smiles and nods before heading back to the throne and Halia is just standing there before looking up at Malcolm. "The doors to outside are on the other side of the room, you know."

Malcolm pulls out his family's signet ring before somewhat pacing. "I know… it's just that…"

Halia uncrosses her arms as she watches him, never seen him this scared or nervous before. "You charge into the darkspawn horde then at the archdemon without a second thought, what has gotten you so scared?" He looks up at her then over his shoulder at Leliana and Halia follows his gaze before looking back at him. "Wait… are you…"

"I know I probably shouldn't, I've pushed my luck surviving the archdemon, but being a Warden is death sentence regardless of how it happens… but…"

"You love her, and she loves you. That's all you need to know." She looks at Alistair. "Alistair, can you come here?" He looks over and excuses himself from the nobles before joining them. "Malcolm's scared of a simple question."

Alistair looks at him before back at her. "What question?"

She sighs and shakes her head with a small smile before looking at Leliana. "Excuse me, Leliana?"

Malcolm stops and looks at her as Leliana turns to face them. "Yes?"

Malcolm walks over to Halia and whispers, "What are you doing?"

Halia ignores him. "Can you come up here, please?" She nods and starts walking up to them. "Excuse me, people, but can I have you give your attention to Malcolm Cousland and Leliana, please." Everyone looks confused but they watch Malcolm and Leliana, who looks terrified and confused respectively. Halia gives Malcolm a small push towards Leliana. "Go on."

He looks at Halia then Leliana as he takes deep breaths. "Maker help me. So…we've been working together for about a year… and we've gotten to know each other pretty well and… gotten close…" Fergus holds a hand over his mouth while his body shows that he's trying not to laugh while Halia is doing the exact same. Malcolm looks at the ring in his hand before looking back at her. "Leliana…" She gasps and covers her mouth with one hand as he gets onto one knee and gently holds her other hand. "Leliana, will… will you marry me?"

Time seems to have stopped as he holds his breath until, "Yes! Yes, I will!" Malcolm starts breathing again as he stands up and the room cheers. Leliana pulls him close as she starts crying with joy. "Yes, I will marry you, Mal! I'm so happy." Malcolm holds her close and gently kisses her shoulder while Leliana mouths 'Thank you' to Halia, who nods with a smile.

Malcolm pulls his head back before kissing her deeply for a long while. He finally pulls his head back. "I'm so happy."

She smiles. "So am I."

Malcolm gently grabs her left hand and lifts it up. "I know that it's not the right kind of ring…" he slides the Cousland signet ring on her ring finger as he continues, "but this is close to my heart, so why not give it to the one who has my heart."

She looks down at the ring before back at him. "Is this…"

He nods. "My family's signet ring, on the finger of my love." He leans in and kisses her some more.

Alistair walks over and gently puts his hands on their shoulders. "Congratulations. We will have the wedding be hosted here when you're ready, no arguing. I insist as your friend first and king second."

Malcolm smiles and nods. "Thank you."

"I'm very sorry to break this moment up, but you need to go to your waiting fans outside before they really do break down the gates."

They smile and Leliana looks at Malcolm. "Go ahead. I'll be waiting for you afterwards now, more than ever."

Malcolm nods and gently kisses her again before heading down to the doors on the other side of the room and approaches a guard to stands at attention. "Congratulations, my lord."

Malcolm nods. "Thank you."

The guard eases up. "Are you ready, my lord? The crowds outside are getting restless."

"Restless? What am I supposed to do, exactly?"

"Just put in an appearance, so I understand it. The people just want to see their hero in person. I'm supposed to take you to your escort… full brigade, their armor all shined up and everything. They're really honored to be guarding you, let me tell you."

Malcolm nods. "Well… let's go then."

"Yes, my lord. Follow me, please."

In the months that followed his coronation, Alistair proved to be a popular king... if largely unwilling to involve himself in matters of governing. He traveled often, making appearances in towns throughout Ferelden to the great delight of the commoners. They referred to him as a king with the "common touch," even if a few knew it was a simple aversion to life at court.

News that the Urn of Sacred Ashes had been found in Ferelden did not spread outside the Chantry until Brother Genitivi made an announcement several months after the defeat of the darkspawn. The manuscript detailing his research and his experience with Andraste's cult drew huge interest among scholars throughout Thedas. Some years later, the Chantry announced that Andraste's Ashes were nowhere to be found. The Urn itself had disappeared, with no way of knowing who had taken it or why. However, the discovery of the temple itself was said to validate claims of the Urn's existence. A ripple of excitement spread among the pious people of Thedas, leading to the temple's restoration. The Temple of Sacred Ashes, as it was called, became a symbol of the Chantry's past and its future and a source of hope for the faithful.

Following months of effort, the tower of the Circle of Magi was finally cleansed of the last spirits to slip through the Veil. No further abominations were created, and First Enchanter Irving was pleased to declare the Circle safe. All that could be saved had been.

With the slavers shut down in the Alienage, the lot of the city-born elves improved for a time. The new king even named the local elder to his personal court-a scandal amongst the humans, but a sign of new hope to the elves. Shianni continued to be an outspoken member of the Alienage community, and in time became the new elder. That outspokenness earned her frequent trouble, but served her people well.

Arl Eamon remained in Denerim for some time, acting as the chancellor and chief advisor to the throne. Teagan ruled over Redcliffe in his stead, and was surprised to find himself well-loved by the villagers, where were still grateful for the nights he spent defending their lives. After Eamon abdicated in favor of his brother, many noticed that Teagan spent almost as much time in the Free Marches as he did in the lands he ruled, but he remained a popular arl nonetheless. Connor was sent off to study at the Circle, and considering his earlier experiences, he excelled in his training and easily passed the Harrowing to become a full mage. Unfortunately, however, the boy never shook his guilt over what had passed in Redcliffe and largely kept to himself in the Circle.

The Dalish elves prospered after the siege at Denerim, having earned much respect for their part in the battle. For once, human lands welcomed the wandering folk. The new keeper, Lanaya, was respected both amongst the Dalish as well as in the Fereldan court. She was a voice of reason, and other Dalish clans would turn to her to help resolve disputes with human folk. As for the werewolves, now freed of their curse, they remained together and took the surname Wolf in memory of what they once were. They eventually became the most successful animal trainers in Thedas, and each year would gather to light a candle in memory of the Lady who had loved them so well.

In Orzammar, King Harrowmont found himself in a protracted battle against Bhelen's rebellion that left him unable to gain the stability he needed. The clan lords objected to many of his measures in the Assembly, and only his efforts to increase the dwarves' isolation from the surface met with any success. Despite whispered concerns over King Harrowmont's age and health, as well as several rumored assassination attempts, he managed to survive year after year. However, it is common knowledge in the Diamon Quarter that when the day of the king's death finally comes, a succession crisis will shake Orzammar to its core once again. The dwarven apprentice, Dagna, ultimately completed her studies at the rebuilt Circle Tower. Eventually, she published a comprehensive theory of how lyrium vapors relate to the supply of magic. It gained a great deal of attention, although some of her methods raised questions about ethical magical research practices. Although the Anvil of the Void was destroyed, rumors about its location crept into Orzammar. Years later, thanks to the defeat of the darkspawn on the surface, a few determined smiths managed to locate the Anvil's remains. They examined the ruins of the Anvil, and, upon returning to Orzammar with their findings, convinced the Shaperate to attempt to recreate Caridin's research. A new golem was created, bound with a spirit taken from the Fade. The golem immediately went insane, killing several shapers before it was destroyed. The research was branded excessively dangerous and sealed away. Whispers of its existence circulated throughout Orzammar, however, and demand among the smith caste to reopen Caridin's research refused to abate.

As good as her word, Morrigan disappeared once the archdemon was slain. Someone of Morrigan's description was seen traveling alone months later, heading west through the Frostback Mountains… and she may even have been with child. For years, there was no further word of her. With Flemeth dead-or at least gone-the chances of tracking her down were slim indeed. One cannot help but wonder, however: What became of the child? What were Morrigan's plans? These questions must remain a mystery… for now.

As for Malcolm's companions, they went their separate ways. Malcolm went to the Circle Tower to advance his skills in magic while Leliana took Goliath and traveled to Orlais in preparation for their eventual wedding. Malcolm would occasionally chat with Dagna and check on Connor during his time at the tower. Eventually, Malcolm and Leliana would marry and live happily together. Halia joined Lanaya's clan for some time, enjoying being with her people again. But she would leave them from time to time while there were sightings of her in Denerim's palace. Eventually she would leave Lanaya's clan and travel around Ferelden. But months after the end of the Blight, Malcolm and Halia would eventually return to the Grey Wardens, helping to rebuild the order. But this isn't the last that Ferelden will call upon them for aid…

Thank you so much for joining and sticking with me. This story isn't over with yet, still have Awakening, Golems and Witch Hunt, in that order. I'll add in a short chapter next covering the wedding. And I am gonna make a new story when I'm done with this one, and change the story once more. Stay tuned in is all I ask of you, thank you.