Chapter 49 = From Banns to Teyrns

It had been an hour since Alistair and Emma had gone to bed. Zevran – being a night owl–was sitting by the hearth cleaning his weapons when there was a knock on the door. He quickly opened the door to see a member of the guard. "I have a message from the Queen, m'lord. She said I am to wait for your reply." He handed the note to Zevran.

"Step inside; the hall is rather drafty, yes?"

The guardsman nodded and stepped into the room, opting to stand at attention beside the door. "My knock didn't disturb Lady Emmalynn, did it?"

"Ah, you are one of the guardsmen who stood watch this afternoon. Worry not, the lady is asleep… and Enchanter Alis is not here."

When the guardsman heard that the Enchanter was not nearby Zevran could see the man's brow unfurrow.

Ah Alis, you have cow towed the palace guards. Zevran smirked then unfurled the note

Dear Sr. Arainai,

Thank you again for your extraordinary work investigating the Arl. Because of your diligence I will be taking actions I could not have taken without the evidence you gathered.

I would like to speak with you about another investigation. I know it is extremely short notice, but could you come to my study tomorrow an hour after Prime?

Please give the guardsman your reply.

Anora, R

He grinned. "Please tell her Majesty that I will be there at the appointed time." As the courier left, Zevran closed the door. I wonder who La Reina wants me to look into now.

~oOOo~

An hour after prime, Zevran arrived at the Queen's study where both the Queen and the Chancellor Woodward sat.

The Chancellor held out his hand. "Señor Arainai, both the Queen and I found your work investigating Eamon to be top notch and much appreciated."

Zevran and the Chancellor grasped arms. "You are very welcome. Please call me Zevran."

"Please call me Chester."

Zevran nodded. "Good morning your Majesty – you look especially radiant this morning."

Anora smiled as her cheeks turned a bit pink. "Thank you. I appreciate your coming here at such an early hour." She motioned him to take a seat.

"What service may I perform for your Majesty?"

"First, I want to say that I am deeply sorry about the loss of Warden Surana. I know what it is like to lose your spouse. You have my deepest sympathies."

Zevran was profoundly touched by the Queen referring to Surana his spouse, not just his lover. So much so he let her see the careworn expression instead of the mask he typically wore. "Thank you. I too am truly sorry for your loss."

Anora nodded. "Thank you."

In that moment both Zevran and the Queen set aside their masks taking the first steps, testing the water in the well of trust.

"Mi Reina, what would you have me investigate?"

"Bann Esmerelle of Amaranthine. She was a crony of Rendon Howe and is rumored to be extremely corrupt. My plan is to dissolve the Arling, barring any exception from Teyrn Fergus. The Bannorn of Amaranthine would be directly under the Teyrn of Highever who will hold Esmerelle's oath of fealty.

"Would you consider serving the Crown in an official capacity and investigating Bann Esmerelle? I want to know all the pies in which she has fingers, all of her associates, and whether or not she had any idea of what Howe was going to do to the Couslands."

"Official capacity?"

"Yes. Even if the investigation involves more…clandestine activities, you will have the full support of the Crown and your findings will be the official findings of the Crown. I need to protect myself and the baby and after the recent actions of Grand Duke Gaspard and Empress Celine, I realize that much was going on that neither Cailan nor I knew."

"Information is a valuable commodity; have you no one to collect it?"

"No. I have an urgent need for someone to design and run clandestine operations for Ferelden. I believe that it is a high priority for the Crown and if you are willing– the job is yours."

Zevran hid his surprise. "Your Majesty, why would you trust me with this position?"

"I know the Crows were hired to kill the Wardens, but you failed in your attempt. Instead of trying again or simply running away, you swore an oath to Aedan and became one of the Warden's closest allies – that alone tells me much about you. Second, Emmalynn and Alistair trust you as well and they are both excellent judges of character."

Zevran looked pensive. "Hmm, perhaps we can use the investigation Bann Esmerelle as a test? It would be important for you to see how I work and for me to see if this is what I truly want to do, yes?"

"That is a reasonable idea. I agree. So, as for the investigation of Esmerelle you will report directly to me and to Chester. The Queen's council will know you are in charge of investigating Esmerelle and they will be apprised in a way that protects your sources and methods."

Zevran nodded. "Your changing Bann Esmerelle's fealty oath will unbalance her–a wonderful tactic."

Anora grinned.

"One thing your Majesty; during today's festivities it would be a good idea to leave me out. I don't want to be outed to the Landsmeet so I can begin to get a sense about this troublesome Bann."

"I agree. However, I do not want my gratitude unexpressed, so before Chancellor Woodward let me thank you on behalf of Ferelden and myself for coming to the aid of the Wardens and of Ferelden. What boon may I grant?"

Zevran never expected to be asked such a question. "I do not know. May I have time to think about it?"

"Of course, take all the time you need. Let us meet tomorrow and I will share with you all the information I have about Esmerelle and Amaranthine. My chamberlain, Ramsey Perry, will set you up here at the palace with apartments of your own and the Chancellor will provide whatever else you may need to begin you investigation. I look forward to working with you Zevran."

"And I you, mi Riena." Zevran bowed.

~oOOo~

After the meeting with Zevran, Anora broke her fast with Fergus. Anora noted that he looked thinner than he should, but he didn't seem at all weak. They fell in to the same easy rapport they'd always had. Fergus, Cailan, and Anora had been friends growing-up. When Fergus and Oriana married –and before the pressures of the crown sat on Anora and Cailan's heads–the couples spent time together, horseback riding, having picnics, and such.

Both Fergus and Anora had experienced the loss of their beloved spouses, Anora lost her close friend Oriana and Fergus lost his close friend Cailan. Sympathies for each other were without question, and by mutual unspoken agreement they pushed grief aside to focus on issues facing post-blight Ferelden.

"You want to dissolve the Arling of Amaranthine and have me hold the Bann's fealty directly?"

Anora nodded. "Howe neglected the Arling shamefully. Taking care of everyone would be overwhelming for a new Arl; splitting the Arling between Highever and Denerim will be easier.

Everything north of the Vigil will be under you, and everything including the vigil and points south will be part of the Arling of Denerim. Also, Bann Esmerelle needs to be investigated. I hope that the change of fealty will put her a bit off balance to aid the investigation."

Fergus smirked. "A bit? Who will investigate Esmerelle?"

"I have appointed Zevran Arainai, a former Antivan Crow, to head up the investigation. He is the one who found all the damning evidence about Eamon."

"Aedan told me about Zevran, and about Zevran and Warden Surana. Between Howe and the Blight many of our families have been rent asunder."

Anora nodded. "I am sorry Howe could only die once. I also want to give the Vigil to the Wardens. They need a place to build and grow. The Vigil would be part of the Arling of Denerim."

Fergus looked thoughtful. "I think the arrangement is makes sense. Who would be the Arl of Denerim?"

"You'll just have to wait until the Landsmeet."

"Not fair, Nora."

Anora gave Fergus an impish grin. "Patience is a virtue. Now, I must meet Eamon. I have an offer to make him."

Fergus chuckled. "Have fun."

~oOOo~

Arl Leonas – as head of the Queen's Council – sat with Anora in her study when Eamon arrived. The Arl of Redcliffe was looking quite contrite. "Your Majesty, I apologize for my rude behavior yesterday. The shock of seeing Fergus alive but injured was…difficult."

"Emmalynn is the one to whom you should be apologizing. She is just outside; shall I bring her in?"

"Well…I…uh…if your Majesty believes that to be necessary, then…of… of course."

Anora laughed without humor. "Good thing Emmalynn is not outside, given your utter lack of sincerity. Arl Eamon, since King Maric removed Alistair from your care your behavior towards your brother – both in general and in relation Rainesfere –has been shameful. You tried to tax Rainesfere's horse-trade, you tried to convince Cailan to put me aside, and you tried to push me, and Cailan's heir, off the throne altogether.

"That alone is appalling; coupled with your treatment of Ser Alistair and of Emmalynn, your behavior has been truly deplorable. Which leads me to why I summoned you –I would like to make you an offer."

Eamon looked at the Queen warily.

"At this Landsmeet, step down in favor of Teagan and quietly retire. Your estate in Denerim will revert to the crown and you will be compensated. You can move anywhere in Ferelden you'd like."

"Why would I retire?"

"Because if you do not, I will expose your deeds to the Landsmeet, strip you of your Arling, and exile you from Ferelden."

"If you believe those bits of correspondence you showed me are sufficient, then you are mistaken, your Majesty."

"I know you were shown a more convincing set of evidence – did you believe me to be unaware of its existence? I have the letter from the Empress, the deed to your villa in Lydes, your journal entries, and your letters to and from Celine's bard. I knew about all of it when Emmalynn threatened to tell me. She bluffed you, Eamon.

"And if you do not believe that is enough, you should know that Grand Cleric Dorothea has proof that you bribed Elemena with money from Orlais. That bribe alone is enough for a charge of treason, which of course would be the third choice if you fail to take either of the other two."

"Do I have time to consider my decision?"

Anora simply looked at him.

Eamon looked put upon. "You are asking me to decision that will affect the rest of my and my wife's life. Hasn't Isolde been through enough?"

"My offers are what they are because of your actions. If you want to find someone upon whom to lay the blame for your misfortunes, look in the mirror. Do not expect sympathy, least of all from me."

Eamon sighed heavily. "I will step down."

"I thought you might. I will see you in the Landsmeet chamber. Please bring your coronet."

Eamon stood and bowed. "Arl Leonas, your Majesty."

After Eamon left the room, Anora said, "I will keep the evidence locked away. If Eamon retaliates against any of the parties he had wronged. He will be tried for treason and I will see his neck stretch."

"Eamon had to be dealt with, your Majesty. Redcliffe will see the dawn of a new era. Teagan will bring new life to the Arling."

~oOOo~

Standing facing the Landsmeet, Chancellor Woodward tapped his staff of office on the ground. "Oyez! Oyez! All pay homage to Her Majesty Anora Theirin, Queen of Ferelden."

Anora entered, dressed in a long-sleeved gown of deep purple. Again, as with the prior Landsmeet, the throne had been placed below the dais so the very pregnant queen did not have to climb stairs.

Next to the throne was a slightly smaller seat – one carved and painted to look like the Chantry sunburst.

"Grand Cleric Dorothea, please join the Queen at the throne."

Murmurs could be heard throughout the chambers, nothing sounding negative, just surprised.

The Grand Cleric came down from the gallery and sat on the throne. She leaned over and whispered to Anora, "Thank you for having me join you."

Anora said back, "I think it is a good idea to project a united front."

Dorothea smiled. "I quite agree."

Anora nodded to the Chancellor who called the Landsmeet open then announced, "Bann Teagan Guerrin of Rainesfere and Arl Eamon Guerrin of Redcliffe, please approach the throne."

Both men bowed before the Queen; Eamon looked defeated as he saw the box containing his coronet sitting near the throne. He had given it to the Queen just prior to the Landsmeet.

Teagan–his eyes on the Queen–had not noticed the box.

Anora spoke to the Landsmeet, "While Arl Eamon was in a coma, the village of Redcliffe was under siege by undead. Bann Teagan, who'd prepared Rainesfere in case of Darkspawn – making sure his most vulnerable subjects were protected and his army on war footing– arrived at his brother's seat and took responsibility for the protection and defense of Redcliffe village and all who called it home.

"While the Wardens searched for Andraste's ashes, Teagan continued to guard and protect the village – praying with those who'd lost loved ones and helping the survivors put their lives back together.

"Arl Eamon, you aided and sheltered the remaining wardens both in Redcliffe and in Denerim. You called the Landsmeet that brought us together. I understand you have an announcement?"

"Yes, your Majesty." He turned to the assembly, his voice lacking its typical resonance, "As many of you know it has been…difficult for my wife, given what happened to me and then seeing our son taken to the Circle of Magi. It is time for me to provide comfort for the woman with whom I share both my life and my heart.

"She has expressed a desire to retire from public life and my place is at her side. Therefore, effective today, I step down as the Arl of Redcliffe, and leave the Arling in the capable hands of my brother and heir."

The Queen nodded. "Lady Isolde is fortunate to have such a selfless and caring husband. I accept your decision to step down and the appointment of Teagan as your heir.

"Bann Teagan, will you accept the title and responsibility of Arl of Redcliffe?"

An utterly astonished Teagan cleared his throat to regain some measure of calm, then said, "I most humbly accept this honor and pledge myself to the people of Redcliffe."

Anora stood up and Teagan knelt before her. She was handed the coronet of Redcliffe and placed it on Teagan's head as he spoke the oath of fealty for him and his arling.

"This day do I, Teagan Guerrin of Rainesfere, render homage and fealty to my sovereign lady, Anora, Queen of Ferelden, who will, from this day forward, be my liege lady. I will remain true in all ways, serving the crown faithfully. This do I swear, by honor and by the high ideals which I hold as an Arl. So, say I, Arl Teagan Guerrin of Redcliffe."*

Anora nodded. "We accept your homage and fealty and pledge to you that from this day forward until the end of our reign you are our liege man that we will honor your Arling and defend your rights as an Arl and that we will protect the trust that you have placed in us, mighty with justice, tempered with mercy."

"Please rise, your Grace. I present to the Landsmeet Teagan Guerrin, Arl of Redcliffe."

The Landsmeet gave an ovation.

Teagan and Eamon went back up to the balcony, but Eamon left the Landsmeet soon after.

The Queen remained standing and addressed the Landsmeet, "Yesterday we saw the souls of our loved ones to the Maker's side and honored their bravery in fighting the darkness. Yesterday we honored Warden Constable Garahel Surana, who willingly sacrificed his life to kill the archdemon and in doing so ended the Blight. His sacrifice safeguarded Ferelden so that we would not suffer the fate of the now barren Anderfels and Western Orlais.

"Today is about joy, about celebrating our heroes, about our freedom. Today is about looking forward and moving into the future as a strong and united Ferelden!"

The Landsmeet reverberated with the sounds of stomping and clapping.

The Chancellor called, "Fergus Cousland please approach the throne."

News of Fergus' return had already reached those attending the Landsmeet and the crowd applauded Bryce's heir.

Fergus bowed before Anora.

"There is no way to replace what Rendon Howe stole. Do you wish to take your place as Teyrn of Highever as its rightful heir?"

When Fergus agreed, he knelt before the Queen; she placed a Teyrn's coronet on his head as he recited his oath.

"This day do I, Fergus Cousland of Highever, render homage and fealty to my sovereign lady, Anora, Queen of Ferelden who will, from this day forward, be my liege lady. I will remain true in all ways, serving the Crown faithfully. This do I swear, by honor and by the high ideals which I hold as a Teyrn and as a Cousland. So, say I, Fergus Cousland, Teyrn of Highever."

Anora nodded. "We accept your homage and fealty and pledge to you that from this day forward until the end of our reign, you are our liege man that we will honor your teyrnir and defend your rights as Teyrn, and that we will protect the trust that you have placed in us, mighty with justice, tempered with mercy."

"Please rise, your Grace. I present to the Landsmeet Fergus Cousland, Teyrn of Highever."

The Landsmeet cheered.

Anora spoke again. "As a result of Rendon Howe's conviction, the Arling of Amaranthine reverted to the crown. I have contacted his children – who were innocent of their father's treachery – and they have renounced any and all claim to the Arling. After much thought and with the advice of the Queen's council, I propose dissolving the Arling of Amaranthine.

"The land north of Vigil's Keep – which includes the Bannorn of Amaranthine and the Feravel Plains–will remain part of the Highever Teyrnir, however, Teyrn Cousland shall directly hold the fealty of Esmerelle, Bann of Amaranthine and Lord Eddlebrek, Master of the Feravel Plains. The land including Vigils Keep and points south will be part of the Arling of Denerim."

Whispers and murmuring flowed about but none that sounded upset.

Anora sat back down, glancing in the direction of Bann Esmerelle who looked like she had tasted something sour.

"Those who approve the Queen's plan say Aye."

"Aye!" Esmerelle joined in the Aye vote but not enthusiastically.

"Any opposed?"

~silence~

"Ser Alistair Theirin, please approach the throne."

Alistair was startled by the call to the throne. He squeezed Emma's hand before heading to the front.

Alistair bowed to Anora.

The Queen spoke, "As all know Urien Kendalls, Arl of Denerim, died bravely at Ostagar and his only heir, Vaughn Kendalls was murdered. The late Rendon Howe's tenure as Arl was fortunately brief. The Arling, expanded now, is in need of leadership and stewardship.

"Ser Alistair Theirin you have been an exemplary knight, repeatedly stepping forward and risking your life in the service of those in need. You fought at the side of the Wardens, you rescued me, liberated many prisoners from Howe's dungeon, and took the lead in preparing the city defenses against the Archdemon and its horde.

"Through it all, you've shown wise leadership and selfless dedication, both of which Ferelden needs as we move into the future. With the Landsmeet's approval, will you accept the title and responsibility of being the Arl of Denerim?

Alistair was stunned speechless. It took a moment, but then he whispered to Anora, "but what of Emmalynn?"

Anora smiled and called, 'Lady Healer, Emmalynn Amell Trevelyan, please approach the throne."

Many had witnessed Emmalynn's healing as she toured the medical tents and hospitals; many had benefited by the skills of the compassionate woman, and everyone knew her as the Lady Healer. The Landsmeet broke out into cheers as she walked towards the throne.

She curtsied. "Your Majesty."

"Members of the Landsmeet, Emmalynn is betrothed to Alistair Theirin. Upon their marriage, I ask that she be invested as the Arlessa of Denerim. You know her to be a spirit healer. She has been formally released from the Circle of Magi by Knight Command Greagoir. Given the uniqueness of Lady Trevelyan's situation, I have consulted with the Grand Cleric and Envoy to Divine Beatrix III. Grand Cleric Dorothea will address you now in her capacity as Envoy."

The Grand Cleric spoke. "It is well known to the Chantry that Emmalynn's service to the Maker and devotion to the teachings of Andraste are an example we all should follow. I know she will continue doing the Maker's work as Arlessa of Denerim. The Chantry approves both of her status as a free mage and her elevation to Arlessa upon her marriage to Arl Alistair."

From the woman who was not only the acting Grand Cleric of Ferelden, but is also the envoy of the Divine, her endorsement of a mage was extraordinary. It was also well received by the Landsmeet.

The Chancellor rapped his staff on the ground. "All in favor of Alistair Theirin as Arl of Denerim, and upon their marriage, Emmalynn Amell Trevelyan becoming Arlessa Emmalynn Theirin, please say Aye."

"AYE!" rose up from all those assembled.

Anora signaled for the page, who brought a pillow on which sat a new gold coronet. Alistair knelt before her and recited the same oath as his father, only for the Denerim Arling.

"Please rise, your Grace. I present to the Landsmeet Alistair Theirin, Arl of Denerim."

The Landsmeet gave an ovation.

Alistair and Emmalynn – both still feeling a bit like they were in a dream –stood before the Landsmeet. Alistair looked to Teagan whose expression radiated pride and joy.

Emmalynn looked to Wynne who nodded in approval and smiled proudly.

Holding hands, Alistair and Emma went back to the vacant part of the gallery that belonged to the Arl of Denerim. It was on the opposite side of the gallery as Alistair's father and next to Teyrn Loghain. The Teyrn gave Emma and Alistair a rare smile. "You will both do the Arling proud."

Chancellor Woodward tapped his staff against the floor once more. "Warden-Commander Aedan, Warden-Constable Jowan, Sister Leliana, Lord Oghren of Orzammar, and Senior Enchanter Wynne of the Ferelden Circle of Magi, please come before the Queen."

The Grand Cleric stood up with the Queen. As each person approached the throne, they bowed to the Grand Cleric then to the Queen.

Anora spoke, "Lord Oghren and Senior Enchanter Wynne. You volunteered to follow and assist the wardens at great personal risk and in serving the Wardens you were serving and protecting Ferelden.

"Lord Oghren, you have expressed the desire to stay in Ferelden. Your considerable martial skills did not go unnoticed by my guard. Would you accept a senior position in Maric's Shield?"

Oghren understood the honor being given and nodded soberly. "Aye, your Majesty. I accept."

The Landsmeet applauded and Anora looked pleased.

"Senior Enchanter Wynne, you kept the wardens safe and saved many lives during the Battle of Denerim. What boon may I grant you?"

"Your Majesty, it is my hope that the Ferelden Circle of Magi be granted autonomy."

"Senior Enchanter Wynne," Grand Cleric Dorothea said, "together mages and non-mages fought side by side – each helping and helped by the other. We have seen with our own eyes the many ways in which magic can serve man. Magic is a gift of the Maker. Having mages, and thus their Maker-given abilities, locked away in a tower does naught but squander's the Maker's gift. If her Majesty is willing, then I will help make it so"

The natural trepidation felt about mages had been eased somewhat during the Battle for Denerim, and while the Grand Cleric's endorsement took many by surprise, no one seemed openly hostile to the idea.

Anora smiled serenely. "I am willing. Senior Enchanter Wynne would you consider helping us work with the mages and templars towards this goal?"

"I would. Thank you, your Majesty and your Grace."

The Landsmeet clapped loudly.

"Sister Leliana, you fought at the side of the last two wardens left in Ferelden. You were with them from the beginning of their quest. You were instrumental in issues of diplomacy for the Wardens as they gathered their armies. You served Ferelden and the Maker with selfless devotion. I know that service to the Maker is its own reward, however, I would like to give you a token of my esteem."

Anora signaled to a page who brought forward a rectangular box made of rosewood. Anora took it and the page opened the box to reveal a lute. Pulling the precious instrument out of its nest of satin, Leliana noticed that the distinctive bowl-shape of the sound box was crafted with cherrywood ribs, while the top of the sound box was a light-colored spruce.

Leliana was amazed at the craftmanship. The round opening in the soundboard was inlaid with cherrywood carved into a delicate lace pattern, the neck and pegbox carved from golden Wych elm and the bridge and the fingerboard made from plumwood.

She cradled the lute to her body – it already felt like part of her. "There are no words, your Majesty, to express my gratitude for such an exquisite gift."

Anora was delighted to see the pure joy in Leliana's expression. Grand Cleric Dorothea, who helped procure the precious instrument, had told the Queen a little of Leliana's background. "Perhaps you could play a tune for the Landsmeet?"

"I would be honored your Majesty." Leliana gently plucked the strings, making sure the lute was in tune. Then she sang.

Where whither grows the simple scent
of sprigs anew in furrowed soil,
For on the vine are yours and mine,
a bounty blessed by honest toil.

Though brave in war and ways we are,
and wander thus in victory,
It's on the vine where yours and mine
are graced with health and history.

In home and hearth and battlefield,
our sustenance is common held,
If on the vine are yours and mine,
and always there we are compelled,

For turning home is not retreat
when home is why we fight at all,
And on the vine is yours and mine,
entreating in our heart the call.**

The beauty of Leliana's voice and the sweet sound of the lute reached all parts of the Landsmeet and almost every heart and when she finished, she bowed to a standing ovation. Leliana beamed and moved off to the side near Aedan, who helped her put the lute back into its case.

Anora now stood before Aedan. "Commander Aedan Cousland, you took up the mantel of Warden Commander while still new to the Order, after suffering the horrific loss of your family, and the loss of your fellow wardens. Yet, you rose from the ashes of Ostagar, brought together an army of thousands and led Ferelden to victory over the Archdemon. What boon may I grant?"

"I wish a place where I can grow the wardens of Ferelden, so we need not depend on Wardens from other countries, especially from countries that insist on sending legions of Chevaliers."

The Landsmeet cheered.

"Then I grant you Vigil's Keep in the Arling of Denerim for the exclusive use of the Grey Wardens of Ferelden. You will also receive a stipend from the Crown and I will direct the Arl of Denerim to work with you and provide assistance as needed."

Aedan was shocked, but then beamed. "Thank you, on behalf of myself and the Ferelden Wardens, for your most gracious gift."

Anora looked out at the Assembled. "There is one more individual left to honor. However, there is no boon to grant to the one who made the ultimate sacrifice. Therefore, I name Warden Constable Garahel Surana as the Hero of Ferelden. A statue to commemorate the Hero and his life will be commissioned and will be placed in Denerim Square."

The crowd at the Landsmeet roared in approval.

Emmalynn, hearing the heartfelt cheers for her Rana, filled her eyes with tears of happiness and grief. She didn't make an effort to hide them, using a cloth to dab at her eyes. Alistair put his arm around her and drew her close.

Chancellor Woodward asked, "Does anyone have any other business to put before the Landsmeet?" Not hearing anyone, he tapped his staff on the ground three times. "I call this Landsmeet concluded."

~Fin~

AN: The next chapter will be the epilogue, which will be pretty substantial.

Thank you for all who have taken this journey with me!

* Oaths adapted from the SCA Kingdom of Caid.

** From A Garden's Grace: Songs of the Field, collected by Maryden Halewell (DA Wiki)