I know it seemed as though I had given up on this story, and I cannot apologize enough to my wonderful supporters for the abandonment!
I am back now and anxious to bring Denarius to justice! Unfortunately, that won't be happening in this chapter! :-)
The most heartfelt thanks to voltagelisa - It never ceases to amaze me that you haven't simply given up on me!
You are the dearest friend and sister I could ever hope to have! I adore you - hope you know that! :-)
Thanks to everyone who has read and favorited this story! Your response was AMAZING and I am so glad you were pleased!
A huge welcome to my new reviewer: BabyInf3rno - Thank you so much for joining me on this journey!
A very special thanks to my reviewers: voltagelisa, zevgirl, FalynnAngel, AdalaeAmell, Kimber75, gamerchic, dragonlover131313, fifespice, sandradee27, Elriendel, tehPrincess, MrsSparrowDarcy, Illusionary Ennui, RewindedMiracle, 007Diana, Alaskantiger, Xaiael and naomis8329- I am sorry to have been gone and I hope you still enjoy Alexa and Denarius - there is much more to come!
"So," Anders began as he took yet another swig of ale from his tankard, "who is the lucky soul who gets to speak to Fenris?"
After the elf's rather abrupt departure from Merrill's stateroom, the remaining companions headed back to the dining hall; intent on drinking their worries away. Sebastian and Isabela were already in their rooms for the night; a fact that thrilled Varric. He had no desire to answer the former Chantry brother's questions with regards to Fenris' trip into the Fade.
"I will," Merrill spoke up, the sadness evident in her tone.
"Are you sure, Daisy?" Varric asked. "You and Broody aren't exactly close."
"My relationship with Fenris is completely irrelevant at this point, Varric," she replied irritably. "Alexa is our main concern. If I am to combat whatever magic Denarius is using, I need to know exactly what he saw."
Anders' voice was unusually quiet when he spoke. "Do you think he's hurting her, Merrill?"
The blood mage pondered his question for several minutes before responding. "I don't think so," she said, her eyes filled with sorrow. "He needs her too much to hurt her. I think his plans are far more nefarious than applying simple pain to get his way."
"Ancestors," Varric said, shaking his head. "You think he's trying to turn her, don't you?"
"I can't say for certain," Merrill replied, "but that would be an easier and more efficient way to gain her support for his plan."
"And you would be correct." All heads turned to the open doorway as the broken voice travelled toward them. "Denarius is attempting to win Alexa for his own before he applies the lyrium to her skin." Fenris stepped inside, his bloodshot eyes still ringed with unshed tears.
"Win her for his own?" Varric asked cautiously. "You don't mean…"
Fenris crossed the room and grabbed the tankard of ale, bypassing the use of a mug. "I found them in Hightown, on the balcony of her estate," he began. "When I approached, I encountered the barrier that you told us about. I tried to reach them, to stop what he was doing to her, but I was powerless." With extreme force, he flung the tankard against the wall; shattering it against the wooden hull.
Taking a deep, shuddering breath, he continued, "He knew I was there. He even taunted me as he took her."
"Took her?" Anders interjected, rising from his seat. "You mean he was attacking her sexually? Maker, Fenris! No wonder you reacted as you did!" The mage was completely taken aback by the near-hysterical laughter that issued forth from the elf. "You'll forgive me if I don't share your mirth regarding the rape of the woman you claim to love!" he exclaimed, his hands glowing bright blue.
Varric quickly stood, placing himself between Anders and Fenris. "Sit down," he told the furious mage quietly. "I fear there is more to this than either of us know." Though he still glared murderously at Fenris, Anders retook his seat at the table. Varric slowly approached the warrior and placed a hand on his shoulder. He held tight, even as the elf fought his attempt at comfort. After several moments of struggling, Fenris slipped to the ground, his head dropping forward into his hands as his shoulders began to shake.
Before Varric could join him on the floor, Merrill moved up and gently pushed the dwarf aside. She sat down next to Fenris and placed her arm carefully around his waist. Much to everyone's surprise, the elf accepted the sign of affection; leaning his head against her shoulder as he released the anguish that had been building inside him since his initial separation from Alexa so long ago.
The room fell quiet; the only sound the soft sobs that Fenris and Merrill now shared. When he once again had control, the elf slowly rose from the floor and poured a fresh mug of ale.
"I… know my reaction was improper, Anders," he said slowly, "and I have no excuse for that. But you need to understand what I saw. Alexa wasn't forced to be with Denarius. When I arrived at the estate, she was instigating their encounter."
"No!" Anders shouted. "That's not possible! She couldn't possibly want to be with him; not after everything he's done."
"Actually," Merrill said as she joined the men; wiping the remaining tears from her cheeks, "that makes perfect sense. We can all agree at this point that Denarius is attempting to seduce Alexa in hopes that she will accept his 'gift' of the lyrium markings without fuss. In order to do this, he would have to turn her against anyone who might wish to rescue her."
"And that would be us," Varric added, shaking his head in frustration.
The mage nodded, pacing slowly around the room as she organized her thoughts. "He has a dreamer under his control," she continued. "Someone who can mold a victim's reality to whatever he wishes it to be. So while Alexa sleeps, the dreamer changes some event in her life to make her current companions the monsters and Denarius her savior."
"So you are saying that she now believes that Denarius is her lover?" Fenris asked, his eyes reflecting the deep pain that particular idea brought to his heart.
"As disgusted as I am to even speak the words, I believe that is exactly what is happening," Merrill replied. "He may not have completely altered her conscious mind yet, but he has taken giant steps toward controlling her unconscious. We need to reach her as quickly as possible, or she may be lost to us forever."
"And on that cheerful note," Varric said as he took Merrill's arm and pulled her toward the door. "I think it's time that we all turned in for the night. We should arrive in Denerim tomorrow and we'll need all the rest we can get."
Rest? Right… the dwarf thought as he tossed off his shirt and climbed into bed. He knew his other companions were no different. Regardless of the fact that they all needed sleep, Varric knew that none of them would close their eyes. The new information on Alexa's condition was still far too fresh.
And far too disturbing…
o~~~~~~~~o
Alexa rose from her cot, the erotic dream of the night before still filling her mind. How will I even look him in the eye? she wondered as she pulled on her new Tevinter robes and attached her new staff to the strap on her back.
Pulling back the flap on her tent, Alexa stepped out into the bright morning sunlight. She closed her eyes and tilted her face toward the sky, enjoying the warmth as it flowed across her bare skin.
"My, my. Now this is a wonderful sight to behold first thing in the morning," Denarius said. Alexa froze in place, the unexpected voice sending shivers through her. She slowly opened her eyes and met the mage's gaze; a nervous smile curling her lips.
Denarius smiled warmly, his arms crossed over his chest. "I am sorry if I surprised you, my dear," he said softly. "That wasn't my intention, I assure you. I merely wished to express my admiration for your new robes. You look positively radiant in them."
"I have you to thank, of course," she replied cordially. She secretly hoped that the mage attributed the flush in her cheeks to the sun. "You really must stop spoiling me so, you know."
"Nonsense," Denarius said, his smile widening. He approached Alexa, reaching into the pocket of his robes as he did so. He moved behind her slowly, his hand lightly brushing against the nape of her neck. Before Alexa knew what was happening, Denarius wrapped a silver chain around her neck, fastening it with practiced ease. She glanced down, her eyes widening at the ruby pendant that now lay between her breasts.
"I cannot…" she began as she attempted to turn toward Denarius. His hands were instantly on her arms, holding her fast to his chest as she attempted to move away. His breath tickled her ear as he leaned ever closer and began to speak.
"What did I tell you last night, Alexa?" he whispered, the desire now quite evident in his voice. "You can and you will take the gifts I have to offer. The first time I saw you, I could feel the great emptiness that threatens to consume you. You have given so much of yourself to those around you; only to be rejected by them when you needed them the most. Such abandonment is unacceptable, in my opinion."
Denarius slowly slid his hands down Alexa's arms and wrapped them around her petite waist; drawing her tighter against him. "Know this, my beautiful Champion," he continued in a seductive tone that seemed to hold her captive. "I fully intend to fill that emptiness with all that I have to give. Simply tell me your desires and I will see that each one is met without delay. Do we understand each other?"
Alexa's heart was racing and her knees felt suddenly weak. Her first attempt at a reply was nothing more than a small whimper. Denarius chuckled softly and trailed his lips along the curve of her ear. "There's no need to answer now, my Alexa," he said. "We have a long day ahead and many miles to cover. We will revisit this conversation this evening, over dinner in the privacy of my tent. I have so many delights left to share with you."
Without another word, the Tevinter magister turned and walked away. Alexa stood completely still, afraid that any movement may cause her to collapse to the ground. After several minutes, her mind seemed to clear and she began packing her tent for the upcoming journey.
Maker, help me, she prayed, trying to quell the excitement that was building in her stomach. What has he done to me and what will I do now?
o~~~~~~~~o
The Eternal Majesty docked in Denerim's harbor early the following morning. The crew immediately set about restocking their provisions and making necessary repairs to the vessel. The Champion's companions quickly left the ship, heading toward the castle and their unscheduled visit with the king.
"I know there is more to this story than you are revealing," Isabela complained to Varric as they made their way through the busy marketplace in the center of town. The dwarf had taken responsibility for telling Sebastian and Isabela about Fenris' trip into the Fade, and he chose to include only the most essential information in his tale.
In his version, Alexa's memories were being manipulated by Denarius in hopes that she would trust him and willingly participate in his lyrium experiment. No mention was made of the sexual encounter Fenris witnessed, or the subsequent breakdown by their elven companion. Varric knew Sebastian would lose all control if he knew the truth, and the last thing they needed at this particular time was another fistfight on the ship.
"You can think whatever you like, Rivaini," Varric replied, quickly examining the weapons in a nearby stall as they passed by. "I told you what I know."
"Right," she replied irritably. "Then why is Fenris walking around as though his life is over?"
He couldn't look her in the eye as he replied, "Rough night sleeping, that's all. You saw how exhausted that same journey made Merrill, and she's a trained mage."
The pirate queen's hands clenched tightly at her side as she stormed past Varric. "Fine," she spat. "Keep your damned secrets then. I just hope the parts you left out don't end up being essential to her rescue." The dwarf shook his head sadly as Isabela fell into step next to Sebastian. He was quite sure the exiled prince knew that he was lying, as well. He was no doubt simply happier to avoid the true ugliness of the situation. Such was the way of the faithful, after all…
"Thank you, Varric," Fenris said quietly as moved to his side. "I know it wasn't easy for you to keep the truth from Isabela."
"Had she been the only one involved, I would have told her everything," Varric replied. "Vael, on the other hand, hasn't earned the right to have such intimate information."
"He is determined to take her from me," Fenris said, his gaze fixed on the duo at the head of their group. "I won't allow it to happen, Varric. I won't."
"Let's hope the king can help," the dwarf responded, a look of disgust on his face, "or Sebastian may be the least of your romantic problems. Right now I'm more concerned about winning her back from the sick bastard who is twisting her mind."
o~~~~~~~~o
The attack on Denarius' party came in the late afternoon; in the heart of the Brecilian Forest.
The caravan of travelers was stopped deep inside the forest to give the horses a chance to rest when the trouble began. Alexa and Miriel were kneeling by a secluded stream, washing the dishes from the afternoon meal. Denarius hadn't wanted his female companion anywhere near the menial work, but the Champion had insisted; and the way she smiled when she argued her case had a far greater effect on him then he would ever care to admit. The two women were left alone, as they both planned to wash after their work was done.
"You've made a fatal mistake by invading our land, shemlen." Alexa's head spun in the direction of the angry comment and she gasped. Standing not more than five feet away was a group of three Dalish elves; their bows cocked and aimed at her heart. Moving as slow as her muscles would allow, she dropped the plate she was cleaning into the stream and sat back on her heels.
"I'm sorry," she said quietly, raising her hands before her in supplication. "This is your land? I wasn't aware that anyone owned the Brecilian Forest."
"Your sarcasm does you no service, shem," the elf replied. "You come into our forest and defile our lands with your waste, and you think that you will be allowed to leave. Well, we are here to inform you that this isn't the case. My clan should already be in your camp, but I've been given the pleasure of dealing with you. If you wish to survive the day, you will pay for your life; beginning with that stone that hangs around your neck." As he spoke, he jerked the bow to indicate the ruby necklace Denarius had given her before they broke camp.
His smirk vanished as his quarry started to chuckle. Alexa's hands began to glow and she pointed a finger at the obvious leader of the bandits. "I think not, my elven friend," she said quietly. As she spoke a thin stream of fire flew forth from the extended digit and slowly curled around her wrist. "I would suggest instead that you take your fellow criminals and leave this area immediately, before I am forced to respond to your petty threats."
Miriel saw the flame and squealed in horror. She quickly rose from the ground and dashed away from the stream. Before Alexa could even call her name, an arrow flew through the air and struck the terrified elven woman in the back of her head; killing her instantly.
"You bastards!" Alexa cried, the flame surrounding her hand shooting forward to engulf the elves. One of the bandits was able to release his arrow and it struck her in the shoulder, propelling her onto her back. Alexa scrambled to her feet as quickly as she could and ran toward the camp. Though she was injured, she needed to protect Denarius and his men if at all possible.
"To arms, men!" Agies cried as the first of the elves invaded the camp. The air was filled with falling arrows, and several of Denarius' soldiers fell before the Magister entered the fray.
"Find Alexa, Feynriel!" he shouted as he raised his arms above his head. In an instant, the clearing filled with a thick fog and lightening crashed overhead. The young mage ran toward the stream, images of Alexa lying injured and unprotected adding speed to his flight. He hadn't gone far when he collided with the object of his search, and both went tumbling onto the grass.
The elf recovered first and looked down at the woman he now covered with his body. The seconds drew on as he gazed into her eyes, and it was only when she groaned loudly that he noticed the arrow protruding from her shoulder. Scrambling off of her, Feynriel's hands glowed brightly as he sought to staunch the bleeding.
"Stop… that," Alexa said irritably, brushing his hands away from her arm. "I'll be fine. Just help me remove the arrow quickly so that we can get back to the camp. The elves are headed there, as well."
"They're already there," Feynriel replied. Alexa immediately made to stand and he pushed her back onto the ground. "I don't think so, Alexa," he said sternly. "Master Denarius has the battle under control for now. You aren't moving until we deal with this wound. Have I made myself clear?" He braced himself for the strike that he was sure he would receive. Instead, the Champion began laughing.
"Look who has found his inner commander," she said, holding her arm out for him to examine. "Alright, Master Feynriel, let's get this done. I need you to break the arrow so I can pull the pieces out."
"I have a better idea," he said quietly. He wrapped his hand around the arrow and closed his eyes. In moments, the wood began to smoke and then burn. With a quick flip of his wrist, Feynriel snapped the smoldering arrow and tossed away the removed piece. When Alexa reached up for the remaining shaft, he smiled and swatted her hands aside.
"Stop… that," he said, imitating her voice from mere minutes before. His smile broadened as her lips parted slightly in surprise. He gently grasped the piece of wood that stuck out of her back and pulled; wincing when she gasped in pain. "Sorry."
"You should be, for causing an injured woman such grief," she retorted, unsuccessfully hiding her smile. "Shame on you."
Feynriel stood and offered Alexa a hand up; and the duo quickly ran back toward the camp. The fighting was still underway, though the tides had turned on the Dalish attackers. Alexa swept her gaze over the scene, her eyes widening when they came to rest on Denarius and the damage he'd caused.
The Magister stood in the center of the camp. Elven bodies littered the ground all around him, most still smoking from the electrical attack that had killed them. The magic had begun to dissipate from around his hands and he looked exhausted. Their eyes briefly met and he smiled; his relief at her arrival clear on his face.
Alexa moved quickly toward him, wanting to check and see if he'd sustained any injuries in the battle. She was only a few feet away when she saw one of the bandits hurl a dagger directly at the Magister's back.
"Denarius, watch out!" she cried as she threw herself into his arms and spun him away from the path of the projectile. The knife arrived seconds later, embedding itself into the center of her back. Alexa's eyes shot open and blood spilled from between her lips. The Magister's desperate voice was the last thing she heard as darkness finally claimed her…
o~~~~~~~~o
"A Grey Warden, you say?" Administrator Augustus asked, gazing cynically at Anders and his companions. "Well, if you would care to remain here for a moment, I will see if His Majesty has a moment to spare for you before his afternoon meetings." The snobbish man exited the greeting room, shutting the door quietly behind him.
His first stop, however, wasn't to the king's chambers. Instead he hurried up the stairs to the guests' quarters, rapping lightly on one of the doors. He entered upon being given permission and approached the men at a nearby table.
"Warden-Commander," he said politely, his hands clasped behind his back, "I believe we may have a situation that requires your attention. A rather motley group of individuals just arrived at the castle and one of them claims to be a member of your order. I thought you might like to address the situation before I call the guards to deal with them."
The stoic man gazed up at Augustus curiously. "Really?" he said. "Well, thank you for bringing this to my attention. I know all of the Wardens currently in Ferelden and none but my companion and I are due to be here in Denerim. If you would be so kind as to take us to this imposter, we will deal with him or her and save your guards the trouble."
His companion belched and looked over at him irritably. "Who is this 'we', chief?" he asked before grabbing his tankard of ale and taking a deep gulp. "You're the Warden-Commander. You deal with it. I am quite happy to remain here."
"And yet you will come, anyway," the commander demanded. "Once we deal with the problem, you can come back here and drink until you pass out."
"Fine," the irritated Warden said, rising unsteadily from his chair. "Just point me in the direction of the problem and I'll take care of it. Hope you don't mind a bit of blood on the royal carpeting."
Augustus rolled his eyes and led the two men to the waiting room. He opened the door and stepped aside, thrilled to have the whole nasty matter taken out of his hands.
The drunken Warden had barely entered the room when he spotted Anders. "Sparkle-fingers!" Oghren exclaimed, a bright smile curving his face. "What brings you here? Wait, let me guess. The women in Kirkwall don't appreciate a man who wears a skirt."
Anders groaned and shook his head. "Wonderful," he mumbled. "I come here with an urgent message for the king and I get the comedic relief portion of the Grey Wardens. I take it that Augustus fool didn't bother to tell King Alistair that I need to see him?"
"Of course he didn't, Anders," Warden-Commander Nathaniel Howe said as he approached the mage and offered his hand in greetings. "When you claimed to be a Warden, he thought I would want to handle the matter."
"So, you're the Warden-Commander now, then?" Anders asked as he firmly clasped Nate's hand and shook it formally. "At least they had the sense to put someone with a brain in charge." Fenris stepped up to the two men, and the impatient look on his face brought Anders back to the matter at hand.
"While I would love to stand here and trade childish quips with Oghren," he said, jerking his finger in the direction of the drunken dwarf, "I really do need to speak with King Alistair. It's a matter of utmost urgency. Do you think there is anything you can do for me, Nate?"
"I am sure something can be arranged," Nate replied. "Oghren and I were to meet him for dinner soon to discuss Warden matters. If it's that critical, I can ask that you and your companions be allowed to join us."
Relief washed over Anders as he gazed at his former companion. Nate was nothing if not considerate when it came to urgent matters. "It is very critical, Nate," he said quietly. "It's about the Champion of Kirkwall."
Nate's expression immediately darkened. He examined Anders' companions before returning his gaze to Anders. "As I don't see her in your party, I assume something has happened to her," he said quietly. "How bad is it?"
"Extremely bad," Anders answered. Nate's eyes opened wide as he looked at the mage. Never had he seen Anders look so pained.
Nodding curtly, Nate turned and headed for the door. "You'll have your meeting with the king, Anders," he said as he exited the room. "Just give me a minute."
Varric released the breath he'd been holding since the Wardens had entered the room. Finally they were moving in a positive direction. After the nightmare of the previous evening, he'd begun to believe their mission was cursed.
Nate returned several minutes later and motioned for Anders to follow him down the hall. "You, too, Oghren," he called to his fellow Warden. Oghren was slowly moving toward the kitchen and the ale casks that awaited him there. The dwarf reversed course and followed, grumbling to himself the entire way.
The group entered a private study and Nate closed the door behind them. Sebastian immediately stepped forward and took a knee before the man seated in an ornate leather chair next to a roaring fireplace.
"Your Majesty," he said, his head bowed low, "thank you for agreeing to this meeting. I am certain you have many important things to attend to, but we desperately need your help to save Lady Alexa Hawke."
"He's a real ass-kisser, isn't he?" Oghren asked, his lip curled up in disgust.
Varric chuckled. "You have no idea," he replied.
"Please," King Alistair Theirin said, motioning for Sebastian to stand. "I still can't get used to people doing that to me. I hate formalities – always have. Now, would someone like to tell me what has happened to the Champion of Kirkwall? Nate tells me it is quite serious."
Anders stepped forward, bowing his head politely to the monarch. "I'll explain, Sire," he began. "Lady Alexa Hawke was recently kidnapped in Kirkwall by a Tevinter Magister. The information we have received indicates that he has brought her to Ferelden in an attempt to seek aid in performing a rather unpleasant ritual upon her person."
"Wait!" Alistair responded. "Did you just say kidnapped? And what kind of ritual are we speaking of? This is the same Champion who single-handedly defeated the Arishok in combat, correct? How in the Maker's name did one mage, no matter how powerful, manage to capture her?"
Anders opened his mouth to respond, but was interrupted by Sebastian. Varric hung his head in his hands, praying to the Ancestors that Fenris would refrain from killing the exiled prince in front of the king.
"Lady Hawke is a woman of considerable compassion, your Highness," he explained. "She would give anything to rescue an endangered companion; regardless of that person's worthiness. She was led to believe that a former acquaintance was in danger. Without thought to her own safety, she ran headlong into a trap while attempting to save him."
Even Alistair noticed the murderous energy coming from the nearby elf as he stared at Sebastian, his skin beginning to glow. Anders used that demonstration of Fenris' abilities to continue his explanation.
"You see the energy emanating from my rather angry friend at this moment, Sire?" he asked. "That particular ability was forced upon him by the Magister in question when he was kept as a slave. Lyrium was poured directly into open wounds on his body, making him a conduit for immense power. Now Magister Denarius seeks to add those same lyrium markings to Alexa. The ordeal will be incredibly painful and may even kill her. We must reach her before he is allowed to succeed."
Alistair rose from his chair and approached Fenris, slowly examining the blue markings that covered his skin. "I am sorry such a thing was done to you," he said quietly, "and I will do all I can to help you rescue the Champion. Do you have an idea where they are headed?"
Anders sighed. This was the moment he had been dreading. "Unfortunately, we do, Your Highness," he said cautiously. He paused a moment before continuing, trying to think of a way to explain the situation to the former Warden. "We have every reason to believe that Denarius is taking Alexa toward Ostagar, to enlist the aid of the Witch of the Wilds in his ritual."
"I don't think so, Sparkle-Fingers," Oghren said, belching loudly before moving closer to the king. "I was there when Aedan Cousland finished off that crazy dragon. She's dead, for certain."
"I am sorry, sir dwarf," Merrill said, shaking her head sadly, "but I am afraid that you are mistaken. You may have destroyed one incarnation of Asha'bellenar, but Hawke resurrected her in the camp of my former Dalish tribe."
"What!" Alistair cried, his jaw hanging precariously close to his chest. "Why would she do that? That witch is pure evil!"
Merrill flinched a bit at the king's reaction; but after a moment of reflection, she squared her shoulders and met his gaze. "Asha'bellenar saved your life once, or so I hear, Your Highness," she said softly. When Alistair nodded slowly, she continued. "Well, she did the same for Hawke and her family. The witch saved their lives in Lothering when the darkspawn attacked and journeyed with them to Gwaren, where they caught a boat to Kirkwall. The only thing she asked in return was for Hawke to take a locket to a Dalish camp and complete a ceremony there."
She smiled warmly, remember her first interactions with Alexa. "That ceremony," she continued, "is what brought Asha'bellenar back to life. Hawke had no way of knowing that such would be the outcome. If you must blame someone, then let it be me. I knew what would happen, and I controlled the ritual."
The mage was surprised when Anders stepped up to her defense. "No one is to blame here, Merrill," he said sternly. "The past is the past and we cannot change it now. The only thing that matters is that we rescue Alexa before Denarius completely corrupts her mind."
"Corrupts her mind?" Alistair repeated, his brows knitted tightly. "What haven't you told me, Anders?"
Much to everyone's surprise, it was Fenris who spoke. "My former master has a special mage travelling with him," he began. "This mage can enter the dreams of others and alter their reality, and he is doing so to Alexa; with alarming speed. I fear she will be allied with Denarius once we find them, if we don't act soon."
The king's full attention was now on the still-glowing elf. "Why is your former master doing this?" he asked. "What does he hope to gain, and what has Flemeth to do with any of this?" The conversation paused momentarily as Alistair's previously ignored companion rose from his chair at the back of the room. At a nod of approval from Alistair, the man joined their group.
"Denarius wants what every Tevinter Magister wants," Fenris replied. "Power. Alexa is unmatched in her magical ability. With the addition of the lyrium markings, she will be nearly unstoppable. He will use her to destroy the other Magisters and gain full control of the Imperium. Such was his hope with me, but I escaped before he could fulfill his desires. As for Flemeth, her role is simple. The ritual required several Magisters when Denarius performed it on me. I have a feeling that he wishes to keep Alexa a secret until he is ready to strike. If someone as powerful as your witch agrees to aid him, he won't need anyone else."
The unknown statesman stepped toward Fenris, a look of concern on his face. "This mind-control of which you speak – could it have been in effect as early as several evenings ago?"
Fenris stared at the man, unwilling to speak to someone to whom he hadn't been introduced. Alistair noted the look and spoke, "This is Arl Eamon Guerrin. He is my advisor and I trust him implicitly with whatever information you have to share. Please answer his question."
"We think that the alteration began as soon as he had her in his custody," Fenris said. "So, yes, she may well have been under his control for several days now. Why?"
Eamon exchanged a look with Alistair and the king's eyes widened. "You don't think…" he began, shaking his head solemnly.
"What has happened?" Anders asked, his heart beginning to race. "Has someone seen Alexa?"
The Arl sighed and nodded. "Quite possibly," he said sadly. "There was a fight in an alley off of the main marketplace a few nights ago. When our guards arrived, they found the charred remains of at least a dozen bodies. We questioned the usual suspects about the attack, but no answers have been forthcoming. Could your Champion have killed so many, so quickly?"
It was Anders' turn to sigh. "Without question," he said. "Her specialty is fire magic. Maker! This is worse than I imagined. We need to move…"
"We're coming," Nate said, stepping forward for the first time since the conversation began. When Alistair looked at him in surprise, he nodded. "Your men are needed here, Sire," he said pointedly, and a silent exchange passed between the two men. "Oghren and I will accompany Anders and his companions on their trip to save the Champion. Her safe return to her city is imperative. As the dwarf has already mentioned," he added, jerking his thumb in Oghren's direction, "he's fought Flemeth before. Since he is so fond of battle, he can do it again."
"My pleasure," Oghren said as he pulled his battleaxe from its leather sheath and ran his finger along the blade. "This time she won't be coming back."
"Make sure of it," Alistair said, his eyes glittering dangerously. "Now, I still have some business to discuss with the Wardens. Eamon, would you please make sure that Anders and his companions are given a decent meal and some beds? I assume you all wish to rest quickly and get on the road in the morning?"
"That was the plan," Anders replied. Bowing politely to the king, the group headed for the door. They were almost out when Alistair called to the mage. Anders turned, meeting the former Warden's gaze steadily.
"Save her, Anders," Alistair said. "I've never met anyone like your Champion and I have a feeling that Kirkwall will fall without her."
"So do I," Anders replied, closing the door behind him.
o~~~~~~~~o
You've been very helpful, Feynriel. Leave the rest to me…
Alexa heard the distant words as her eyes slowly opened. The tent exit before her gradually came into focus and she instantly wished that she'd kept her eyes closed. Her head was pounding and she could feel the thrum of her heartbeat as it raced inside her chest. Several moments later, she realized that she was lying on her stomach, the cool night breeze wafting across her bare back.
Groaning weakly, she tried to propel herself up from the bedroll. She was gently pushed back onto the ground, a strong pair of hands holding her shoulders to the mat. "I don't think so, my beautiful Champion," Denarius purred as his fingers traced what felt like small circles across the center of her back. "You were stabbed with a poisoned dagger meant for me during our battle with the filthy elves. I have removed the projectile, but I still have quite a bit of work to do on the incision. Now, just lie there like a good girl while I tend to your injuries."
Alarm bells rang in Alexa's head as his fingers continued their journey over her skin. I can't… she thought weakly. Must… not… ooooooo…
Soothing warmth began to spread throughout her body, staring at the point of the dagger's impact. Denarius' voice was hypnotic as he once more began to speak. "You shouldn't have put yourself in danger for me, Alexa," he said. "Not that I am unappreciative. Quite the opposite, in fact. Your sacrifice was something I have never known before, and it further ignites my need to give you all that you will ever want.
Speaking of ignition," he continued, and Alexa was sure the temperature had risen several degrees since his ministrations began, "how does the healing balm feel? It's another of my special concoctions. This one took me several months to perfect, but I have always felt that true perfection takes time. Don't you agree?"
"P-perfect…" she repeated, her breaths beginning to come heavier with each pass of his hand.
As the temperature in the tent continued to rise, Alexa felt the soft touch of Denarius' lips on the small of her back, just above her smallclothes. She jumped, the intimate gesture sending shivers of desire racing through her body.
"You are that true perfection, my Alexa," he whispered against her skin. "And I have waited so very long for this moment." His kisses continued up her spine and by the time he was at her neck, Alexa thought she might catch fire from the heat.
Slowly and very deliberately, Denarius rolled Alexa onto her back; a lascivious smile curving his lips as he gazed down upon her breasts. Bending down, he pulled a taut nipple between his teeth and began sucking greedily. Ignoring the warning that still screamed out in the far recesses of her mind in favor of her all-consuming desire, Alexa brought her arms up and wrapped them about his head; pushing herself deeper into his mouth.
Denarius slid one arm under Alexa while using his other hand to tear away her smallclothes. His fingers sought entrance between the moist folds of her sex. When he found her swollen nub, he began rolling it between his thumb and forefinger; a move that made Alexa cry out in pleasure. She reached her first orgasm quickly, calling out his name as the waves of passion rolled over her. When her spasms subsided, Denarius rose and removed his own clothes; quickly returning to her side and pulling Alexa into his arms.
His kisses were long and passionate; his soft tongue tangling with hers in a battle for control. It had been so long Alexa had felt truly desired by someone and she quickly succumbed to the lust she saw in her lover's eyes. In the hazel depths she saw the promise of passion and protection, and she craved both as never before.
When their lips finally separated, Denarius rolled over onto Alexa; sliding her legs apart and settling between them. She felt him push gently against her entrance and bit her bottom lip; her need for him palpable in the air that surrounded them.
"I will give you the world, my Alexa," the mage demanded as he stared deep into her eyes. "Together, you and I have the power to mold the universe around us into everything that we desire. Give yourself to me completely, and I swear you will never be alone again."
Alone… the word sent shooting pains through her chest. Every moment of abandonment came rushing back to her in one long stream of images.
Her mother's eyes, filled with tears, as she told Alexa her father would never again come home…
Bethany's final gasps of breath as she left her on the hill in Lothering…
Carver strolling from their house, abandoning her for the very men who desired to cage her as an animal…
Fenris standing next to the fireplace, telling her that their night together had been a mistake…
Her mother's lifeless body on the altar in the warehouse, leaving her bereft of any real family…
And finally, Aveline's expression as she told Alexa of her 'supposed' friends' aid in the escape of her mother's killer…
Denarius watched the tortured pain on her face and inwardly celebrated. Feynriel had often told him of Alexa's abandonment nightmares, and the boy had obviously been correct in his assessment of the images he'd witnessed. Alexa was terrified of being alone. Combining that fear with the rather potent drug he'd added to her health balm had given him the perfect opportunity to bend the beautiful Champion to his will, once and for all.
The Magister placed a final lingering kiss on her lips before repeating his request. "Give yourself to me, Alexa," he whispered, "body and soul, and allow me to end your loneliness. Tell me you are mine."
Tears slipped from the corner of Alexa's eyes as she slowly nodded. Her voice was choked with emotion when she spoke. "I don't want to be alone anymore, Denarius," she whispered. "I give all that I am to you, if you will have me."
Denarius was completely unprepared for his body's reaction to her words. He gasped and his heart clenched painfully in his chest as he stared into her exquisite face. He claimed her mouth in a passionate kiss, thrusting forward and filling her in one thrust.
The lovers moved together; the rhythm of their lovemaking slow and seductive. Denarius broke their kiss, his lips travelling down Alexa's jawline to the top of her shoulder. He sank his teeth into the soft flesh; his thrusts becoming more powerful as the first drops of blood washed over his tongue.
Alexa's cries filled the tent as she came closer and closer to her completion. As the climax tore through her body, she dug her fingernails deep into the Magister's back; pulling him with her into the throes of ecstasy.
"Ahh… yes!" he shouted as he filled her with his release. Collapsing onto the bed, he wrapped Alexa in a fur blanket and pulled her tightly against him. In minutes, the exhausted lovers were fast asleep.
Feynriel stood outside the tent, his mind filled with rage. How could she? he thought furiously. How can she turn to Denarius for comfort? I am the one who watches out for her every night. I am the one who loves her – I am!
Despite his pain, the elven mage was nothing if not patient. In time, he was certain Alexa would see him for the man he'd become. And if she didn't… well, he had ways to make that happen, didn't he?
o~~~~~~~~o
Miles away, in Denerim, Fenris sat up in bed; suddenly wide awake. Something was very wrong with Alexa. He could feel it. Rising from his bed, he crossed the room and gazed out into the dark night.
I think I'm too late…