As the sky darkened with the approach of early evening, the icy rain that had fallen all day turned to hail, extra fires hastily lit throughout Redcliffe Castle provided welcome warmth. Dairren watched the twins feeling their anxiety. Aedan had come to see him several times a day, but he knew it hurt his friend that he could not help him, just as it hurt Gabriel. He glanced to Ellowyn smiling at the warmth in her eyes. "I am not in any pain." He reassured, noting Ellowyn move, guessing she was holding his hand though he couldn't feel it.

"Wynne hopes to start working on healing you tomorrow." Ellowyn stated softly. "She managed to wake Cailan."

"Gabe said he does not remember anything."

"He will." Aedan stated firmly. "He just needs time, like you."

Dairren glanced to Aedan anxiously. "Gabe said the Wardens are leaving tomorrow."

"Not all. Rory is not in any fit state to go anywhere and Perin and Peter still need some recovery time."

"But you are going?"

"I have to."

"Just be careful, Howe's men will still be out there." Dairren bit his lip nervously as Aedan's eyes darkened with grief and a pain that nothing could temper, locking his gaze. "Do not get yourself killed out of a need for revenge. You need to live to face that bastard at the Landsmeet and tear him down where everyone can see."

Aedan nodded. "I am coming back, I swear."

Dairren forced a smile before exhaustion swept over him and his eyes closed.

Ellowyn worried at her lip before glancing to her brother. "I think I should go and see Rory."

"Alright, just … remember what I said Ell."

"I will."

xXx

Rolling back his shoulder Perin winced at the burst of sharp pain; despite Ayanna having healed the wound it seemed determined to leave a reminder other than the scar.

"You should speak to Will." Peter suggested shuffling the cards. "He's always coming up with healing salves; he might have something that can help."

Nodding Perin picked up his cards. "Will do, but right now I'm in need of some coin."

Rory glanced at his cards and only just withheld his groan. He tossed a copper into the small bowl balanced on his knees, his mind on Ellowyn. He knew she was in the Castle and he wished to see her with every fibre of his being, but he feared her reaction to him and not just because of the scar that snaked down his face. He forced himself to focus on the cards, glancing up at the knock. "Come in." He stared startled as Ellowyn peered around the door.

"I … I am sorry I did not mean to interrupt."

"No problem." Peter stated nudging Perin who hurriedly got to his feet grabbing the cards. "We can take Rory's coin another time."

Rory swallowed nervously as his fellow Wardens slipped from the room

Swallowing the lump in her throat and gathering her courage Ellowyn focused on Rory, her throat constricting as his gaze nervously met hers. She had been afraid she would still feel angry with him, but she felt only sadness that the love she had imagined they would share throughout their lives had not been enough for him. Her gaze drifted across the scar Aedan had warned her about: the gift of a Darkspawn and a wound Rory would never have survived without magic. It still looked painful but she knew the real danger was the wound at his abdomen; the poison coating the blade having complicated matters, though Ayanna had promised them the worst was passed.

Rory felt his heart ache as he saw his lost love, deeply thankful she had escaped Howe's clutches. "I suppose I am in appearance now the monster I was to you."

"You were never a monster Rory." Ellowyn stated softly taking the seat by the bed.

"I was jealous and petty and foolish beyond endurance." He gestured to his face. "This is what I deserve."

Shaking her head Ellowyn pushed away the pain of her heart. "I will never believe that and neither must you."

"There is no need to pity me."

"I do not. I think you are very brave."

Rory turned his head away from her horrified by the swell of emotion. "I do not deserve your compassion." He felt the gentle squeeze of her hand on his and turned startled to see tears slipping down her cheeks; without thinking he gently caught a tear with his thumb, his breath catching as she leaned into the touch of his hand. "I've missed you so much." He whispered.

"And I you." Struggling to swallow the lump in her throat Ellowyn forced herself to pull away, horrified that one look, one touch from him and the barriers she had so carefully built to protect herself had crumbled.

"Were you … did … did anyone hurt you?" He could barely keep the growl from his voice.

Ellowyn shook her head, lowering her eyes so he wouldn't see how much she wanted his arms around her and to feel protected by him. "Not physically."

"Ell?"

Looking into his pleading eyes she felt a choked sob rise unable to stop it. "Oh Rory it was so awful, but I would endure it a thousand times over if it meant my parents were alive. How can it be that they are gone?" Tears swept down her cheeks, her vision blurring, her breath catching as she felt the warmth of his hand as he clasped hers and she broke down, collapsing against him as sobs shook her body.

Gritting his teeth in pain Rory moved slightly wrapping his arms around her, his throat aching with his own sorrow; fear and anger burning in him wishing she would tell him what had happened, but prepared to wait until she was ready to. "Whatever happened Ell you are safe now and I am so sorry about your parents." He tightened his grip at her wretched sobs wishing that he could take her pain. Moments later he heard a muffled apology and felt her drawing away from him. "Don't go Ell, please. I ..." He met her tearful gaze swallowing painfully as she searched his eyes, startled as she lay on the bed next to him, her head resting on his chest, her body trembling as her tears continued to fall. He bit his lip as she whispered what had happened, horrified that she had been subjected to such magic even if she had been protected from it. Holding her gently he placed a soft kiss on the top of her head, feeling her press tighter to his body. "You are safe here Ell." He murmured.

Ellowyn remained silent, letting the warmth of his body and the beat of his heart soothe her; longing for the future she had dreamt of before her world had shattered around her.

xXx

It was nearing midnight and Rathnal was looking over the maps Jayden had prepared for him unable to sleep. It would take at least ten days on horseback driving hard to reach Soldiers Peak, more likely two weeks depending on any delays and unwanted encounters, then at least five days to get from the Peak to the Circle. The soonest they would be back was a month and a lot could happen in that time. He had spent over an hour with Cailan, Fergus and Teagan discussing the need to communicate with Denerim and more specifically the Queen and General and how to go about it. The concern remained that Howe could potentially intercept any attempts to communicate, however the man could not be allowed time to spread his lies and possibly bring the Queen and General to his side. He had agreed to request aid from the Circle while they were there and in the meantime Fergus was considering heading to the border, but Teagan was concerned for his safety. He wished they knew about Jayden, it would have made much more sense to them when he suggested the Captain go to the border instead. He knew how much his friend was desperate to contact his family; at least Fergus had said he would consider it. He glanced to Jayden who was sitting across the table from him. "So do you have any advice on how to deal with Morrigan?" He was still in shock with her sudden appearance that morning, informing him that she would be accompanying them.

"Morrigan can seem arrogant and abrupt, but you would be a fool not to take notice when she wishes to advise you. She is a powerful mage and healer and she has knowledge learned from Flemeth that you would be unlikely to get anywhere else. But hold firm, don't let her boss you about; Morrigan was brought up to see men as inferior."

"You seem to do alright with her."

Amusement lit Jayden's eyes. "Believe me we have our moments."

Rathnal sighed softly. "I wish you were coming with us."

"I would Rath, but my place is with Cailan, especially now."

Nodding reluctantly Rathnal stared once more at the map. "At least a month away when anything could be happening here is frustrating."

"Not when you can contact us daily." Jayden pushed one of the communication runestones across the table. "You know how to use it, at least this way we can stay in touch."

Rathnal stared at him startled. "Are you sure?"

"I'm sure. We need to be able to keep each other updated. I was also hoping you would do me a favour when you get to the Circle, well I suppose it's a few actually?"

Rathnal raised an eyebrow but nodded. "Of course."

"First if Reece made it back to the Circle I want you to give the Knight Commander these orders. We need him back with us. If the Knight Commander is not happy about it I will speak to him."

Rathnal smiled as he took the sealed parchment. "You just love causing trouble; what else?"

"I wonder if you would check and see if Karl made it back."

"I can do that."

"There is also a young mage called Sam, check in with him if you can; if Reece or Karl are there they will know who he is. He will probably be with the Wilds Flowers which will make it easier because they are the last favour. Get what supplies you can of everything; I fear we will need them.

"That all sounds easy enough."

"Be careful Rath, remember Howe's men will be looking for Aedan and they likely won't care about casualties."

"Those of us with Warden uniforms have managed to disguise them temporarily, we will be careful you have my word." He worried at his lip. "You um … you sure having the Qunari around is a wise thing; I mean he did murder that family."

Jayden sighed. "He did and he is trying to atone for it. I'm not sure what happened, but I don't think Qunari lose control easily, something terrible happened Rath I'm sure of it. Besides you should see him fight. I'd rather have him with us than against us; though I will have to talk to him about his attitude towards mages. I was going to suggest he join you, but taking him to a Circle might be just about the worst idea possible."

Rathnal sighed softly. "Just watch your back; if I have to come back here and fight a Qunari I will not be happy."

"Relax Rath, I'm in a castle surrounded by soldiers, if anyone is risking themselves it's you. Just be careful and stay in touch."

Rathnal held the runestone and smiled glancing up as Alistair settled next to them with three mugs of mead.

Lifting his mug Alistair gave a determined look. "I'll watch his back. Wyverns forever remember."

Biting his lip as he smiled Rathnal lifted his mug joined by Jayden. "Wyverns Forever."

xXx

It was mid-morning by the time everyone was ready; Rathnal signalled to his Wardens and Morrigan that it was time to get moving.

Jayden moved to Morrigan's side. "Be careful; Rath has the runestone if you need to get in touch."

"You need not worry for my safety." She smiled as Airyl nudged her gently. "But I will not be overly cross if you do a little." She saw Delilah watching them and leaned close to Jayden her lips almost touching his ear. "Do not get into too much trouble while I am away." Smirking slightly as she saw jealousy colour Delilah's cheeks.

Forcing her clenched fists to open Delilah willed herself to calm; she knew the witch was deliberately baiting her and damn her it was working. She couldn't stop thinking about the rose she had given Jayden; what woman would give a man flowers and yet it was precious to him and it galled her. She grasped for calm and with it came a delightful realisation; a slow smile curled her lips hoping her look would convey to Morrigan that now that she was leaving with the Wardens, she would have Jayden all to herself. The momentary scowl on the witches face told her she had understood her meaning. He is mine Morrigan and none of your games or magic will make it otherwise.

Faren grinned broadly. "No getting into trouble while we are away now Will and maybe keep an eye on these lazy sods." He grinned warmly to Peter, Perin and Rory who had left his bed despite Dylan's orders not to, determined to see the others away.

"We'll be the ones keeping an eye on him." Peter grinned.

Jayden shook his head in amusement. "I reckon you are expecting more trouble than me Faren, especially the way you keep eyeing that pony."

Shuddering Faren shifted slightly. "Well at least it's smaller than the rest of them."

Shaking her head Sereda patted the pony she had been given. "They are very sweet Faren and at least you will not be complaining about your feet all the way there."

"No just his backside." Ayanna chuckled glancing to Aedan who was saying his goodbyes to his family.

Fergus hugged his brother tightly wanting to prolong the time before he had to leave. "Be careful Dan."

"I will be back before you know it." Aedan turned as Oren slammed into him hugging his waist so tightly he wasn't sure his nephew ever intended to let go.

"Don't go Uncle Dan, please don't go. The bad men are still out there!" Oren looked up his cheeks wet with tears. "Just stay!"

Hugging his nephew, Aedan placed a kiss to the top of his head. "I promise I will come back and besides I have Ayanna with me, if anyone tries to hurt me she will make them sorry."

Oren glanced over to Ayanna and slowly relaxed his grip. "Come back soon then." He demanded.

"As soon as I can." He smiled slightly as Oren raced across the courtyard seeing him speaking to Ayanna before he hugged her waist giving a beaming smile before racing back over.

"Uncle Dan we can speak to each other while you are away. Captain William gave Warden Commander Rathnal a crystal they can talk to each other with."

Fergus frowned wondering how the Captain had come to have such rare and expensive items, but remained silent knowing how valuable they would be over the coming weeks and months, being able to stay in touch with the Wardens would be a Makers send. He wondered if this was a contingency set up by Cailan, knowing the King had met with the Captain more than anyone else in the army apart from Loghain.

Ellowyn moved to Aedan and hugged him tightly. "Be safe brother."

"You too." Dropping his voice to a whisper he held her a little tighter. "Remember Rory is a Warden and there is no changing that, if … if that was something you wanted changed."

Pulling back Ellowyn swallowed the lump in her throat. "I know and right now all I care about it that we are alive and you come back to us alive." Biting her lip as tears burned her eyes she shook her head. "Maker all I seem to do these days is cry."

"I am coming back Ell, I swear it."

Nodding Ellowyn hunkered down hugging Hunter, Fleta and Rascal sitting close to their brother. "You be safe too Hunter and keep Aedan safe." She smiled as Hunter nuzzled her hair. "Alright then." Forcing herself to move to Fergus's side, she glanced to Oren who was standing between his parents as the Wardens mounted the horses and ponies Bann Teagan had provided and clattered out of the gates, Rathnal and Rinna leading. Hunter nosed Rascal and Fleta before darting after Aedan. Ellowyn caught Jayden's arm as he moved passed. "I know you gave the crystal to Rathnal, but that we will be able to stay in contact with Aedan too is a gift."

"Rath has promised to contact me when they camp each night; you can speak to Aedan every day if you wish."

"Calling crystals are rare and expensive items." Fergus stated, letting the question of how a commoner would come to have them hang in the air.

Ellowyn hooked her arm around her brothers. "And grateful we are that he is allowing us to use them."

Jayden watched her guide her family inside, but he caught Fergus's backward glance. He sighed softly pushing aside the thought of revealing the truth of himself; he wouldn't put the Cousland's or anyone else for that matter in more danger than they already faced. He turned as Teagan joined him.

"William I was wondering if you would accompany me into Redcliffe village. I am aware you sent instructions for refugees to head to Gwaren and Denerim, but it is likely that those to the south of Redcliffe will come here and we are as well being prepared before they arrive in force and given your preparations at Lothering I would appreciate your opinion."

"Of course Bann Teagan."

"Excellent."

Sten watched the Bann and Captain head out of the gates feeling torn. The Wardens held a purpose he could get behind, but he had no desire to go to a place of unleashed mages, but staying within the confines of the Castle was no more appealing. Yet if he was honest with himself his imprisonment in Lothering had left him weakened and the battle had drained him further; he knew he would be a fool not to take advantage of the time to rest and recuperate. Besides which it gave him more time to observe and interact with the Captain. The man was as eager to train with him as he was to find out about Seheron and the Qun. In return Sten had been given first-hand accounts of the battle, the Darkspawn and the immense threat they posed and while it appeared that the Captain would have to remain at the side of the man they were hiding in the Castle, from what little he knew of him, he believed he would lead him to the front line of the Blight, he just needed to exercise patience.

xXx

That first morning Jayden was introduced to Murdock the Mayor. He remained when Teagan returned to the Castle, talking defences and getting a feel for the village. Murdock took him to the Chantry and introduced him to Reverend Mother Cella and Sister Leliana who were preparing supplies for the refugees. He mentioned helping Sister Theohild when the Mother asked about his involvement with the Chantry, finding himself immediately being fussed over as though he was a cherished son. He caught Sister Leliana's amused smile, the young woman turning away to hide it from her superior. Murdock had raised an eyebrow, but left them to it, simply reminding him where he would be if he required him. It was late afternoon by the time Jayden managed to take his leave from the Mother who urged him to return the following day there being much to do. He spent the time before evening meal training with Thomas and Warin, always aware of the wounds that even despite their severity were taking too long to heal given the healing magic he had received. Dylan hadn't said anything, but he knew his friend was worried. As the bell sounded they hurried to wash and change.

As usual Lady Isolde and her son did not join them, but Delilah took Morrigan's place at Jayden's side and he was hard pressed to conceal his shock as he felt her hand tentatively rest on his thigh. He was grateful for Robert's almost constant stream of conversation to distract him. The young mage and Terrance had struck up something of a friendship and Robert appeared to be far more confident in himself and in his ability to help. Jayden noted Dylan watching Robert a slight smile on his face having taken an almost brotherly role with the slightly younger mage who he had apparently barely spoken too while in the Circle. Matthew of course was subtly watching them both, while the atmosphere between them had become almost friendly he was not lax in ensuring his duty. Jayden was aware Senior Enchanter Wynne had reminded Matthew of his duty to the Templar Order when she had observed him being what she considered to be too relaxed in Dylan and Robert's presence. He had hidden his surprise well, but Jayden knew her words had stung him. As a Templar Matthew knew his duty, but being in the Denerim Company had allowed them to work together and it was something he was not prepared to cast aside. He caught Matthew's gaze and gave him what he hoped was a supportive look as Senior Enchanter Wynne joined them, sadly reporting yet another failed attempt to heal the Arl, feeling a rush of frustration as the friendly conversation fell silent. He wondered if the Ashes truly were the Arl's only hope and if so he needed to speak to Bann Teagan regarding what he knew of Brother Genitivi's intended destination. With the conversation gone Jayden became acutely aware once more of where Delilah's hand was resting, trying to think of anything, but the warmth of her body next to him and the kisses they had shared.

xXx

Having passed on the information about Genitivi to Teagan and Fergus and supplying them with a rough map and directions of how to reach Haven, Jayden had left them to decide what to do with the information. They had made no decision yet on going to the border and he was left feeling frustrated and restless. Unable to sleep, his mind consumed with everything he thought he should be doing, alternating with the chaos of desire and guilt Delilah stirred within him, he went down to the training yard hesitating as he saw Sten. Despite the Qunari's size he was fast and graceful, tremendous power exhibited in each movement of his blade.

"It is a good blade." Sten stated as he stopped. "But not mine."

"The blade you owned must have been very special to you." Jayden stated approaching him.

"Asala means soul in my language. It was forged from rare blue steel and was made for my hand and my hand alone. I cannot return home without it."

Jayden stared at him startled, not being allowed to return home was bad enough, but because he didn't have his sword seemed ludicrous. "I apologise for my ignorance, but why can you not return home without it?"

"It is a death sentence."

It took a moment to process that alarming information, Jayden seeing no reason why he would lie. "How did you come to be without Asala? I know the Chantry did not have it though they had your armour."

Sten hesitated looking over the Captain before he glanced up at the moon as it suddenly appeared from behind dark clouds. "The Arishok demanded to know of the Blight and so I was sent here with several others. We were attacked by Darkspawn near Lake Calenhad. In the attack I was rendered unconscious and when I woke Asala was no longer with me and those I had come with were dead." He swallowed painfully, to die in battle was an honour, but his disgrace almost choked the words he forced himself to speak. "I panicked; without Asala I could not return home and such thoughts brought madness upon me." He shuddered remembering the haze he had fallen into, not truly conscious of his actions until all near him lay as dead as his fellow soldiers. "There is no point in dwelling on what cannot be changed. Asala is gone and I must come to terms with what is; if you will excuse me."

"Of course good night Sten."

"Captain." Heading back inside Sten hesitated at the doors and glanced back seeing the Captain's blade gleaming in the moonlight before it struck the practice dummy. Watching him thoughtfully he considered his feeling of discomfort, the man was far too easy to talk to and he found himself speaking of that which he had no intention of discussing. Yet there was something about the Captain, something more than his rank and respectful nature, something that Sten could not yet determine, but he had the growing feeling this man was someone he should not rush to part from.

xXx

It was only an hour or so passed dawn when Fergus pulled up a seat next to Dairren's bed. Those who had survived Ostagar slept as little as they could, nightmares all too frequent when they did sleep. Teagan had charged Ser Olwin and Ser Peris, both veteran knights to try and locate Brother Genitivi. They were given the fastest horses in Redcliffe stables, the map and directions supplied by the Captain and had left at dawn. He still thought the Ashes were a wild goose chase, but Teagan said it appeared to give the Arlessa hope and had calmed her a little. He kept thinking about the Calling Crystal at the border and was reluctant to wait to see if the Circle could help them, but he was also reluctant to leave his family. He had spoken to Oriana who was as worried as he, but she also recognised that should Howe manage to bring Loghain and Anora to his side, there would be no-where in Ferelden that would be safe for them. He knew she was right and doing nothing waiting on others did not sit well with him. He turned his attention to Dairren giving him a warm smile. "How are you?"

"Tired, Maker all I do is lie here and yet I feel exhausted."

"Your body is healing and magical healing can take its toll."

Dairren sighed. "Dylan has done so much for me, but nothing works."

"Wynne said she will come and see you today. She has the reputation for being the finest mage healer in Ferelden; I have hope she will be able to help."

"Well she cannot make it worse." He winced as Fergus dropped his head, unable to hide his expression of guilt. "We were in battle Fergus; this is not your fault."

"If I had told you to return to your father's side as I should have you would be uninjured."

"I am not sure about that; I think my father was ready to drive a blade into me himself."

"Dairren!"

"He threatened to do as much. It does not matter that Arl Howe and his men are the cause of my mother's … of her death, he blames me because I spent more of my time studying and researching rather than training with a sword, but I do not regret standing at your side and if I were to do it again I would not make a different choice. Well, maybe I would stand on the other side." He forced a smile. "Perhaps magic can still help me; I hate being so helpless."

"We will do everything we can."

They spoke for the next hour about trivial things; the pair glancing to the door at the knock.

Wynne entered smiling warmly, Gabriel a step behind. "Lord Fergus, Lord Dairren, I am sorry I could not come sooner, I have had to pace myself."

Dairren returned her smile. "Well I am not going anywhere."

"Indeed. Well let's see what we can do about that." Scanning him with magic Wynne frowned to herself. "There is a great deal of damage, but despite appearances to the contrary Dylan has done a fine job of containing the damage. Yes I can work with this." She smiled warmly. "I am hopeful I can repair at the very least the majority of the damage, but it will not be a quick process, it will take weeks, perhaps months and sometimes the magic will not be gentle. If all goes well you will regain your feeling and at times that may not be pleasant."

"If I can walk and hold a sword at the end of it I can endure it." Dairren stated firmly, though his voice caught and he glanced to Gabriel who gave him an encouraging smile.

"Very well, an hour per day should do nicely; Lord Fergus and Sergeant Gabriel if you would excuse us."

"I would like Gabe to stay." Dairren stated quickly, biting his lip at the pleading tone.

"As you wish."

Fergus gently gripped his shoulder. "I will come back later."

As he left Wynne turned back to Dairren and smiled. "Well, let's begin."

xXx

After leaving Dairren, Fergus headed down to the training yard to join Oriana, watching Oren like a hawk in his training session. He had seen the Captain training soldiers at Ostagar and since being here, had even witnessed Delilah's training and had been apprehensive to say the least knowing how hard he had worked them. He quickly realised he needn't have worried; he was relaxed with Oren and put him at his ease, taking him through the basics and patiently working with him. He sucked in a sharp breath as Oren suddenly threw down his sword, angry tears streaming down his face yelling he couldn't do it. He moved to go to him, startled when Oriana gripped his arm.

"What he needs now is a soldier, not his parents." She stated softly, smiling sadly at his shocked expression. "Does our son not remind you of someone at a similar age?" She raised an eyebrow at his frown and smiled slightly at his comprehension. "Loghain did not like standing back either, but he did it because it was what his son needed and it worked."

"Is that why you allowed this?"

Oriana gazed at her son and nodded. "I will not have Howe destroy him."

Jayden hunkered down meeting Oren's fierce gaze. "I know it hurts, I know the fear feels like it is choking you and you have to get everything right or you might lose someone else, but learning these things takes time and practice and dedication. Those men who came to Highever that night had years of training."

Oren blinked back furious tears. "I do not have years! They might come here today!"

Jayden nodded slightly glancing to Rascal. "I hear Rascal defended you several times."

Nodding fiercely Oren gestured to Rascal who darted over. "He is the bravest and best mabari in the whole world."

"The dwarven warriors have what is called a second, another warrior who always has their back. Rascal is your second; he's already proven that, so how about we do some training together."

Oren's eyes widened. "We can do that?"

Jayden glanced to Airyl who moved to his side. "This is Airyl, my second."

"Is she really a wolf? She looks like a wolf?"

"She is, she has been with me since she was a pup when Darkspawn killed all of her family."

Oren worried at his lower lip and glanced to Jayden. "So you are her family."

"I am, with Gabriel, Lawrence and Tess we became her new pack. Fighting alone can be scary; fighting with someone you know will always have your back can make facing your enemy a little easier."

Oren blinked trying to stop his tears. "I miss grandpa and grandma so much; will the hurt ever stop?"

"I lost my mom when I was young and my grandpa a few years after that, I miss them every day, but sometimes when I am most lost, or my heart hurts so much I don't think I can go on I have felt them with me and I know that one day I will see them again, but right now, there are things that need to be done and there are people here I don't want to leave just yet." Jayden felt shock move through his body as Oren threw himself at him and hugged him so tightly it hurt. He gently hugged him until he felt the boy regain his composure.

Oren stepped back and picked up his sword from where he had thrown it. "I'm ready to try again."

Oriana smiled and wrapped her arms around her husbands. "He is safe with William." She murmured. As Ellowyn swore he would be.

xXx

Face flushed Oren put the practice sword back on the rack, bowed to the Captain saying goodbye to both him and Airyl before he ran to his parents Rascal at his heels. "Did you see?" He asked eagerly, looking very proud of himself. "Did you see me and Rascal fighting together?"

"I did." Oriana stated, smiling as Rascal pushed his head into her hand. "You are both learning quickly."

"Captain William said the same. He and Airyl are awesome!"

Fergus knelt before his son. "I noticed you got upset earlier."

Oren flushed. "I didn't think I was getting good enough fast enough."

"And now?"

"Captain William is teaching me to focus all the anger and feeling sad. He said it is like a river, it is better to flow with the water than try and stand against it or it will drown you." He watched his father's look towards the Captain and clutched his hand. "Please papa, I want to keep practising with him, it still hurts and I still feel awful, but not as awful."

Fergus nodded and ruffled his hair. "I can see that and I have no objections to you practicing with him." He was startled by Oren's delighted smile and fierce hug.

"I am starving!"

Oriana smiled at her son and wrapped her arm around his shoulders. "Then we had better find you some food."

As they went inside, Fergus headed down the steps moving over to Jayden. "You have made quite the impression on my son."

"He is a fast learner my Lord."

"I admit having seen you training with the others and at Ostagar I was a little concerned."

"I had good tutors when I was about his age and I remember their training."

Fergus looked at him curiously wondering who had taught a farm boy such moves, wondering if family members had been soldiers. "Oren seems more settled in himself; his mother and I are most grateful."

"I am glad it is helping him my Lord."

Fergus hesitated and then smiled and headed back into the castle, there was just something about the Captain that was familiar that went beyond all he had seen at Ostagar and he couldn't put his finger on what. Shaking his head he moved through the corridors needing to speak to Teagan and Cailan.

xXx

Standing next to the window Fergus sighed deeply. "I have reservations too, but Howe has been ahead of us at every step. I need to speak to Anora and Loghain and I cannot risk going to Denerim, nor can we trust that any message would reach them, or that it would be un-tampered if it did arrive. The only relatively safe and realistic option is the Calling Crystal at the border."

Rubbing his chin Cailan looked at the friend he still could not remember. "This is dangerous Fergus; send another in your stead."

"How would someone else ensure Anora and Loghain have not been turned against my family. No Cailan I must be the one to go."

Sighing softly Teagan nodded. "I agree, though I dislike it. You will have to be disguised along with any soldiers you take with you to ensure you attract as little attention as possible."

Cailan glanced at them both. "You know you could be walking straight into a trap. If this Rendon has persuaded my wife and her father of his cause they could have contacted the border and you could be arrested or worse."

"I know Cailan, but what other choice do we have?"

The men looked at each other silently for a few moments, before Teagan sighed. "Maker there will be no horses left in the stables at this rate." Rolling back his aching shoulders Teagan glanced to Fergus thoughtfully. "Will you take William with you, the new Warden Commander seemed eager for him to go?"

Fergus shook his head. "No I would have him stay here, Oren has taken to him and the lessons seem to have calmed him and increased his confidence. Besides Ellowyn trusts him and we know he would give his life in defence of Cailan. No if I must go I would feel better with him here."

"As you wish." Teagan stated. "But may I suggest you leave with as little fuss as possible. Perhaps even through the families escape route through the castle, I can have the horses waiting for you a little way from the Castle. I trust the men and women within these walls, but there could be those watching out with."

"That would seem sensible. Maker I wish none of this secrecy was necessary. I will inform Anora of the situation here, she will be relieved you live Cailan."

"Will she? What use am I like this?"

Fergus gripped his arm. "You will remember Cailan, we just have to have faith."