Hope and Honor

by Kira Tamarion

AU. Alistair is saved from life at a monastery when Teagan convinces Maric to allow him to take over Alistair's fosterage. At the same time, young Emmalynn is condemned by her father as a mage and taken from Ostwick to the Kinloch Circle. When Emma and Alistair come together they bring Hope and Honor to aid the two Grey wardens who must end the 5th Blight. [Alistair, Amell]

2. Feud(al) Relations – Brother vs Brother

Chapter 2 = = Feud(al) Relations – Brother vs. Brother = = 9:20 to 9:22

"Your Forders are magnificent," Maric said as he and Teagan watched the horses run and graze in the pasture.

Unabashedly proud, the Bann of Rainesfere grinned. "They are. The Forders are a versatile breed. Starkhaven uses them for farming, Tantervale – with Tevinter to the north and Orlais to the west – uses them for cavalry. Ansburg uses them for both. The income goes back into the farm, and the profit goes to Rainesfere."

"I told Eamon when I removed Alistair from Redcliffe that everyone in the Landsmeet knows Rainesfere is one of the best-governed holdings in the Bannorn. Your people love you Teagan because you put their needs at the forefront."

"I try. It's what I learned growing up."

"I would ask how Alistair is faring, but I saw him working with one of the foals and grinning and laughing with the younger grooms. It's only been three months, but he's already put on weight. I almost didn't recognize him. "

"Maric, may I recognize Alistair as my heir? I ask because I know you and his mother want him raised away from court."

Maric looked surprised."You will marry at some point, Teagan. Would you not want your first-born child to be your heir?"

"Alistair is my first-born child–by blood or not."

Looking jovial, Maric grinned."If I had any remaining doubts about making you Alistair's foster father, they would have vanished after hearing you say that. Yes, you can make him your heir. "

Teagan relaxed and smiled in gratitude."Thank you, Maric."

~oOOo~

"How was your visit with Teagan?" Loghain asked as he and Maric walked to the sparing yard.

"Wonderful! Alistair looks like a completely different child now that he has some more meat on his bones and he's clearly happy."

Loghain nodded. "How's the horse farm?"

"Orlais better enjoy their horse trading income now, because, in five years, our Forders are going to be the horse of choice in the Marches."

Loghain smirked, "The horse farm is good for Rainesfere and good for the Bannorn; screwing Orlais is really a bonus."

"My one concern is Eamon…he hasn't done anything…"

"Yet," Loghain added.

"Exactly! Yet. That's why I would like both yours and Bryce's counsel on dealing with him."

"Are you sure you want to tell Bryce about Alistair's true parentage?"

"I do."

"The more people who know the more likely that the secret will come out."

"Bryce is equally skilled as Eamon in politics, better liked and is just as wary of Eamon and Isolde as we are. I'd like to have Bryce keep a close eye on Eamon. He is in the best position to do so. Politically and geographically."

"True," Loghain conceded.

~oOOo~

Teagan wrote in his journal.

23 Justinian 9:20

Shortly after Maric's visit, Commander Duncan of the Ferelden Grey Wardens came to Rainesfere. He told me that he was recruiting in the area. However, after what Maric told me, I knew that the Warden-Commander really was here because he wanted to know how Alistair was adjusting and to make sure all was going well.

The Commander was clearly relieved that Alistair wasn't being shunted off to the chantry to become a templar and thanked me for intervening on Alistair's behalf.

Duncan told me that he'd promised Alistair's mother not to recruit Alistair into the Grey Wardens unless it was the only way to save him. While the training as a templar in and of itself wouldn't be a problem, if Alistair was being forced to take vows, he would have recruited him away from the Chantry.

Happily, now, that is no longer a concern.

9:21 = = One year after Alistair's move to Rainesfere

"Alistair, are you looking forward to going to Denerim when I attend the Landsmeet next month?" They had just returned from their daily ride and headed inside for the mid-day meal.

"I am. When I was five, Arl Eamon brought me to Denerim. Will Teryna Eleanor really be taking me and Aedan to the Denerim Market?"

"That's the plan."

"I really like the Couslands. I'm glad you let me meet them when they came here."

Teagan looked puzzled. "You mean you weren't introduced to them when they came to Redcliffe?"

"Unh ah. The Arlessa sent me to the kennels whenever they visited."

Teagan hugged Alistair. "I'm sorry she did that."

Alistair hugged back. "You made it so she can't do that anymore. Right?"

Teagan ruffled Alistair's hair. "Right!"

Following Teagan into the dining room, Alistair went straight to the cheese and put several slices on his plate. "Dad, can I become a Knight?"

Jumping from one topic to another, I did that when I was his age. smiling affectionately Teagan asked, "Is that what you want to be?"

Alistair nodded. "Ever since I was five, but Arl Eamon said I wasn't allowed. I know I'm older than a lot of squires, is it even possible?"

"Horse master Dennet believes that you are one of the best horsemen he's known. I've seen how good you with a practice sword, so I doubt you would have problems learning weapons-craft. But as you know, there is more to being a knight than horses and swords. Did you ever have a chance to talk to any of the Redcliffe Knights about it?"

Alistair's shoulder slumped. "I spoke to Ser Terrick; he told the Arl. That's when Arl Eamon said I couldn't be a knight."

I wish I could disown my brother. "Dennet is coming to Rainesfere next week to take Cinnamon back to Redcliffe, and I think Ser Perth is escorting him. I can ask Perth to talk to you. Would that help?"

Alistair nodded. "I like Ser Perth."

"Good. If you really want to be a knight, I will speak with Maric when we are at next month's Landsmeet. I'm sure he will approve, but I want to make sure and get his advice on how to go about it. You could be the first Knight of Rainesfere."

Alistair beamed.

One month later…

"Wow, Denerim is huge Da! Mother Hannah told me that Andraste was born here before it was called Denerim."

"Yes, it was just a small fishing village then." Alistair has been very excited about staying at the Gnawed Noble; I have to admit, I'd rather be here than listening to Isolde's gossiping.

"Son, since the Landsmeet isn't for a couple of days, I arranged to see the King tomorrow about your wish to become a knight."

"I'm glad Ser Perth came to Rainesfere. He told me all about chivalry and honor and how Knights swear to defend those who are weaker than them. That's what I want to do."

"And that is what I will tell the king. Now off to bed."

"G'night, Da." Alistair hugged Teagan.

Teagan kissed the top of his head. "Night, Son."

~oOOo~

"What can I do for you, Teagan?" Maric asked.

"Well, Alistair has expressed a strong desire to become a knight. He said he has wanted to be one ever since he was five, but that dream was dashed by my brother."

"He really wants to become a knight?" Maric smiled.

"He does. Last month I asked Ser Perth to talk with Alistair about it. Alistair told me that Perth told him all about chivalry and honor. Alistair then said, and I quote, 'Knights swear to defend those who are weaker than them. That's what I want to do.' Naturally, I have questions: first, would you permit it, and second, how do I go about it?"

"Not only will I permit it, but I will also put that permission in writing. Let me send one of my knights and ask Bryce to send one of his to Rainesfere. They can evaluate him and decide how he can be a squire – and stay with you."

"I'm not a knight…who would Knight him?"

"Me. The King. His Knighting would be held here, there is no way I will let Eamon get involved."

"Thank you, Maric."

Maric nodded. "I heard that you're staying at the Gnawed Noble."

"Yes; I didn't think that Alistair staying at Eamon's estate would be a good idea, and honestly, I'm glad not to be there, either. Isolde does nothing but gossip."

Maric rolled his eyes. "I know...she can be unbearable. Have you considered buying a small estate in Denerim? It would be far more comfortable than a room at the inn, and when you travel to the Free Marches, it would be easier to depart from Denerim."

"I've considered it. My income from the horses I primarily put back into Rainesfere. I have been saving a little bit each month, but the prices in Denerim at still out of reach. One day, perhaps."

At that point, Maric's Chancellor arrived. "Your Majesty, your presence is required at the trade council meeting."

"Thank you." Maric sighed. "The council is probably mired in discussions about whether hay bales should be rolled to the left or to the right."

Teagan laughed. "Thank you for your time, Maric, and your support."

"You are always welcome, Teagan."

Before the Landsmeet ended, Teagan received a letter.

Dear Bann Teagan,

Bann Sardis is selling his manor so he can purchase the late lord Selwin's estate (Lord Selwin's home is the one with the Orlesian-style entrance and trim). I suggest speaking with Bann Sardis as soon as possible. I am quite sure that you could purchase the manor at a price beneficial to you both.

Let me know if you are interested, and I will set up a meeting between you both at his estate.

In service,

Caen Balmore,
Chancellor

Teagan laughed. Maric, you do beat all.

Teagan and Alistair met with Bann Sardis. The manor could hardly be considered small. It was well kept and even had an attached stable. Alistair was outside looking at the stable while Teagan talked with Sardis.

How will I be able to afford this?

"Teagan, I heard that Star Dancer is just starting to stud."

Teagan nodded. The only one who knows who could have told Sardis is Maric.

"I will take a quarter of the price in sovereigns and the rest with the promise of Star Dancer's first foal."

Star Dancer is an excellent stallion, but certainly not my top stud. However, if that is what he wants… "Deal."

Four months after the Landsmeet, Ser Borredan from Maric's Shield, and Ser Colum from Highever came to Rainesfere for two weeks to work with Alistair, and determine if he was truly willing and able to become a knight and to evaluate his potential. Neither knight knew that Alistair was Maric's son; they just assumed Teagan had adopted Alistair because he lacked an heir.

~oOOo~

Teyrn Bryce Cousland
Castle Cousland
Highever City
15 August, 9:21 Dragon

Your Grace,

Ser Borredan and I have spent the last two weeks working with Alistair. In addition to his horsemanship, which is far and away better then what we would expect for a squire (even some Knights of my acquaintance), he has the athleticism and coordination necessary to make a formidable warrior.

However, what brings my quill to parchment is Alistair's nature. The young man is innately honorable, compassionate, and valorous, the key elements of chivalry. Ser Borredan and I agree that if such a thing were known to exist, I would say that Alistair is a natural knight – only waiting for the right training in arms and siege warfare.

We have already spoken of this to Bann Teagan and have sent a similar letter to His Majesty. We believe a Knight should come from either Redcliffe or Highever so Alistair may become his squire. Honestly, I would not be surprised if he were ready to sit vigil when he is 18 summers.

Yours in Service,

Ser Colum
Knight of Highever

Within the month, it was Ser Colum who relocated to Rainesfere and Alistair became his squire. Between his schooling at the Rainesfere Chantry, his training with the knight, and his raising horses with Teagan. Alistair's life was a full and happy one.

9:22 = = Two years after Alistair came to Rainesfere

Bann Teagan Guerrin
Rainesfere
5 Cloudreach, 9:22 Dragon

Dear Teagan,

I write to tell you that a few weeks ago I learned of your brother's plans to inspect all trade goods leaving west from Redcliffe, including horses. This is clearly meant to cause delay and disruption at Rainesfere. I wrote to your brother (for a completely different reason) and mentioned, casually, that the Imperial highway on the west side of Lake Calenhad was so well maintained that I had been thinking about changing Highever's trade route to the west, and could easily stop at Rainesfere, thus removing the burden on Redcliffe of inspecting trade goods headed west.

Forgive me for interfering; I felt that I had to act.

Please let me know if you do experience trade issues with Redcliffe, as what I wrote to the Arl was quite true and I would do it without a moment's hesitation if it protected Rainesfere.

-Bryce

Teagan later wrote in his journal

Thank the Maker for Teyrn Bryce.

I know Eamon is still holding a grudge against me about Alistair, but I really think the problem is Isolde. She seems to hold some secret desire for me, even though I have been clear with Isolde and Eamon that I do not reciprocate.

Frankly, I find the idea of being with Isolde to be completely nauseating.

---

AN: Thanks to my Beta ElyssaCousland, and to Melysande, and Shakespira for their reviews. I plan to update on TueTuesdaysd Saturdays. So Happy Saturday!