DISCLAIMER: Bioware owns the Dragon Age universe.
Chapter 14: Happier Times
It was a joyous time in Ferelden. The Grey Wardens stopped the Blight, King Maric's heir had been placed on the throne, but must importantly all of this happened without any interference from the Orlesians. Yes, it was a wonderful time to be a Fereldan.
"Lady Vaela, you have more fan mail."
"Let Urdnot pick it up!"
"The dog?"
"Of course!"
Erlina sighed. "Fereldans and their dogs…"
"You have fan mail now, da'len?" Ashalle asked as she examined Vaela's guest room in the Royal Palace.
"Of course I do! I am the Hero of Ferelden after all!" Vaela answered proudly.
"Have you given any thought to returning to the clan?"
Vaela shook her head. "It's never crossed my mind. I can't forget the day I left. I begged Marethari not to send me away, but I was cast out like garbage."
"There wasn't a day that went by where we didn't think of you and Tamlen."
"I know you thought about me. And I missed you too, Ashalle."
"Then you'll be happy to know I'm staying in Ferelden!"
The fresh-faced nineteen year old conqueror of the Blight lit up when Ashalle announced her plan to stay in Ferelden. "You're staying?! But what about the clan?"
"The Sabrae will always have a place in my heart, but you have always come first, da'len."
"Ashalle.."
"Still, you should make an effort to see them. Merrill and Fenarel have been following the rumors about you. They were always so excited to hear of your success."
Vaela teared up thinking about her old friends. "I miss them too…"
"Always remember that you have all of our support and love, da'len. That will never change."
"I know, Ashalle. Thank you."
It had been a long time since Vaela wore anything with the Sabrae emblem on it, but after speaking with Ashalle, there wasn't a day that you'd see the Hero of Ferelden without that emblem over her heart.
A/N: Annnnnnd we're done with the flashbacks. It's all action from here on out.