Gazing at the sunlight gleaming on the surface of the stream near the estate, Leliana took a deep breath of the fresh cool air. They had spent far longer in Orzammar than she had realised and now in mid Justinian she found herself enjoying the warmer weather that still eluded the mountains. She thought of the letters given to her by Brother Genitivi, the first was from the Grand Cleric which had taken her by surprise, she hardly felt equipped to be anyone's spiritual advisor, but her Chantry superior had gone into four pages of details about how she should conduct herself and how she expected the Champion to conduct himself. If the first had taken her by surprise, the second was a revelation. A direct letter from the Queen herself was extremely unexpected given their situation, not to mention the contents and change in her role from spy to protector and guide. She assumed the Grand Cleric remained oblivious to the reality of her being a bard, which she imagined would have resulted in someone else being picked to be a spiritual advisor. The underlying threat from the Queen was also clear, that if any harm came to her new charge that same harm would be visited upon her. She had burnt the Queen's letter as instructed after memorising every word. Gazing out over the water she smiled slightly, things had just gotten a lot more interesting. Turning she headed towards the estate; despite the secrecy of the letters one person needed to know their content. So deep in her thoughts, Leliana was caught off guard when Senior Enchanter Wynne demanded to speak to her the moment she entered the grounds.

xXx

Frowning as she heard raised voices Tess moved quietly along the corridor groaning as she saw Senior Enchanter Wynne speaking with Sister Leliana who appeared to be doing her best to leave the company of the mage.

"Sister Leliana was it not your duty to remain with Lady Delilah?"

"True, but the circumstances …"

"You should have gone with her while the Captain stayed to fight! If you had done your duty they would never have been kidnapped to begin with."

Leliana looked at her in genuine shock. "I was attempting to protect her!"

"The others would have protected her life; it was for you to ensure the protection of her virtue."

"Her virtue is unscathed!" Leliana snapped.

"You have only their word for it and of course they would not admit to anything that happened between them."

"I suggest you discuss this with Lady Delilah!"

"Oh, I intend to, after reminding the Captain of his place!"

Leliana groaned as Wynne strode off seeing Tess looking at her wide eyed. "If you care about your Captain at all I suggest you go and warn him. Swiftly!"

Nodding Tess took the shortcut through the barracks to the training yard seeing him practicing, Airyl lying in the shade watching. "May I have a word Captain?"

Jayden nodded, following her to the far side of the training yard. "What is it Tess?"

"May I have permission to speak freely Captain?"

"Yes of course."

"I just witnessed Senior Enchanter Wynne tear strips off Sister Leliana for leaving Lady Delilah with you while she went to fight. She basically laid the blame of the kidnap at her feet."

"That bloody woman!" Jayden snapped.

"She is looking for you right now, no doubt to accuse you of Maker knows what before she speaks to Lady Delilah."

"Of course she is."

"Will, this thing, whatever is between you … she's a noble, the daughter of an Arl as you well know, you must know there is no future." She looked at him in frustration as he smiled slightly.

"Always looking after me."

"Will be serious, look I get it, we've been through an intense few months and if I didn't have Lawrence I think I'd have lost my mind by now, but no matter what you both feel for each other, when this Blight is over you'll be separated."

Leaning against the fence Jayden stared out across the yard. "We could die tomorrow; don't we get to be a little happy in the meantime?"

"Just be careful, promise me."

"I promise."

"You're out of time." She worried at her lip seeing the Senior Enchanter striding towards them.

"Make yourself scare Tess; you don't need to be caught in this storm."

Reluctantly Tess saluted and moved off at a swift stride.

Pushing himself off the fence Jayden waited for Wynne to reach him, steeling himself.

"If I might have a word Captain?"

"Of course Senior Enchanter, how may I help you?"

"I am deeply concerned."

"Might I ask why?"

"Lady Delilah is nobility and this … connection between the two of you is completely inappropriate. I have heard you spent the night together … alone."

It was all Jayden could do not to throttle her despite being forewarned. "Did you also listen to the part where we were drugged and kidnapped. That reaching and staying in that hunter's hut was to avoid being eaten by the Red Lions that attacked us and killed the men who had taken us? Perhaps I should have remained outside in the storm and frozen, or been food for the creatures."

"There is no need to take that tone …"

"I believe there is." Jayden snapped. "I would never dishonour Lady Delilah, nor would she allow it even if I was so inclined! Now this discussion has already been had with those people who actually matter!" He ignored the disapproving look on Wynne's face. "This is none of your business!"

"I am merely looking out for a young Lady …" She forced herself to hold her ground as Jayden moved closer, his voice lowered to a whispered hiss.

"Just because you were indiscrete, does not mean we will be."

Paling Wynne took a step back, her hand moving over her heart.

Her arm linked in Ellowyn's, Delilah saw the confrontation immediately tensing. "Sweet Maker why must that woman interfere? I must stop this."

"Let me." Ellowyn stated. "Your presence will only add fire to Wynne's arguments." Hurrying across the courtyard Ellowyn placed a hand on Jayden's wrist, the slight touch enough to restrain him from unleashing his anger. "Senior Enchanter Wynne I must speak with William in private, I am sure you understand."

With a nod Wynne turned on her heel and strode away, only just stopping herself from running; seeing Delilah and walking swiftly in her direction.

"Deep breaths." Ellowyn stated softly. "Let Delilah deal with her."

"This has nothing to do with her and she has no right to insinuate …"

"Deep breaths." Ellowyn insisted, seeing the tension coursing through him, catching his hands and gently squeezing.

Sighing softly, he squeezed back. "Careful or Wynne will be accusing us of having an affair."

"Let her, I will box her ears."

Chuckling softly Jayden relaxed slightly. "I believe I would pay good coin to see that."

"I think a distraction is in order, you can help me."

"With what?"

"I am looking after Gawain for a few hours, you can help me keep him entertained." She smiled at his curious look. "I have not been idle while I have been stuck here. Apart from reminding Fergus I am perfectly capable and in fact need to be involved in their planning, Oriana and I have been getting to know Lady Loretta and Lady Rosslyn better. I like them both immensely and I'm sure my … my mother would have too. Lady Rosslyn is from the Free Marcher Trevelyan's, a pious and very respected family. Her brother is here as you might have heard, a very pleasant man and Oren adores Gawain." She leaned forward smiling mischievously. "Rosslyn does not like Wynne either apparently; I think she disapproves of her unwed status."

"Maker is there anyone's business that woman does not stick her nose into."

Grinning Ellowyn linked his arm and tugged him into the house, smiling as he gestured to Airyl who darted up from her spot in the shade and bounded after them. "If Wynne is the worst you have to face, I would say you do not have to worry."

"I suppose." He hesitated as they entered the solar, surprised to see Cailan and Rosslyn standing together, Cailan holding his son, his eyes locked on Rosslyn, pure love in his expression.

Ellowyn paled, having not realised Cailan would be there. She had deduced the truth, not only of Gawain, but of their continuing relationship, but this was not the way Jayden should find out. She turned to her friend startled to see sadness in his eyes not anger.

Cailan felt the colour drain from his face when he realised they were there. "I … I believe I owe you an explanation. This … this is not how I wanted you to find out …" He glanced at Rosslyn in agitation as Jayden quietly closed the door and moved closer to them, seeing his own concern reflected in her expression.

Realising Rosslyn must already know who he was by Cailan's reaction Jayden relaxed a fraction; a soldier would certainly not warrant an explanation of the King's behaviour. He saw guilt and pain in her eyes and wanted to ease her concerns. "There is no need to explain anything. I am not blind and I knew the moment I first met Lady Rosslyn that Gawain was your son." He smiled sadly at the surprise in their expressions. "There is not much that happened in Denerim while I was there that I didn't get to hear about and your brief affair was a discussion on many lips."

"I … I would have expected you to be angry." Cailan whispered his cheeks colouring. "Perhaps you were and I simply have no memory of it."

"We never spoke of it, not directly at least and what happens between you and Lady Rosslyn and indeed my sister is your own business and I am aware her behaviour leaves much to be desired."

Rosslyn nervously moved to Jayden. "What happened was not planned, but I cannot regret it because it gave me Gawain. I do not intend to cause problems for the Queen, I swear it. I just want my son to know his father."

"I cannot imagine anything keeping Cailan from his son, not even Anora. Besides when she does find out, once she calms down, she will realise this situation is as much of her making as the both of you. She has made some regrettable decisions, but you have given Cailan what she chose not to, a child, the one thing he so desperately wanted."

Cailan frowned slightly. "You know Anora was preventing conception?" He noticed Ellowyn's expression appeared to be shocked for the first time.

"Dad told me. I knew she was afraid of having a child long before that because of what happened to me. I counselled her to talk to you about it, but Anora has always seen me as a child." He met Cailan's gaze. "But I am not a child and it is easy to see the love between you and Lady Rosslyn."

Cailan shifted uneasily. "I …"

Rosslyn gently touched Jayden's wrist, nipping her lip anxiously. "I am not here to tear your family apart."

"I think Anora has done that herself. Besides, as I said your relationship with Cailan is your own business, not mine. No-one would thank me for interfering and I do not believe it is my place to. Frankly I expected you to stay as far away from me as possible with Gawain once you found out who I am. I just hope you don't feel you have to do that. Gawain is innocent and while we are not bound by blood, I can't help but love him."

Rosslyn felt such a swell of love for him she felt tears burn her eyes. "Thank you." She whispered.

Passing Gawain to Rosslyn, Cailan pulled Jayden to his chest hugging him fiercely. "Thank you for understanding brother and for accepting our son."

"I would protect Gawain with my life, never doubt that."

Swallowing against the lump in his throat Cailan laughed as Airyl jumped up at him, clearly not intending to be left out.

xXx

After spending a little time captivated by Gawain, Jayden felt an increase in guilt towards Anora as he realised Cailan and Rosslyn were holding hands, their attention locked on each other. Knowing that they were clearly in a relationship and more than that, in love was one thing, but being complicit was another matter entirely. He took his leave meeting Ellowyn's worried gaze and giving her a reassuring smile. The estate suddenly seemed far too small and he headed into the village, Airyl keeping pace with him sensing something wasn't quite right. He surprised himself when he reached the Chantry and entered, imagining Alistair studying here; it seemed a lifetime ago that they had been children. Walking softly through the empty hall he knelt before the statue of Andraste, Airyl sitting next to him sniffing the air. "Whatever our future holds please let Anora accept Gawain." He sighed softly sitting in silence for so long Airyl put her head on her paws and closed her eyes. Sighing Jayden gazed up at the stature. "Is being Champion really what you want from me?" At the sound of footsteps, he turned sharply. "Sister Leliana."

"May I?" At his nod she knelt beside him, smiling as Airyl once more closed her eyes huffing softly.

"I am sorry about Senior Enchanter Wynne, none of it was your fault."

"You have no need to be concerned about me, I can handle her."

"Probably far better than I did. I said something I had no right to."

"No more than she was doing. You may be relieved to know she has confirmed Delilah's virtue remains intact."

Sighing softly Jayden shook his head. "Delilah should not have had to prove it."

"It is the way of things. Still the matter should now be dropped, for the time being at least. What brings you here?"

"I just needed a quiet space to think."

"Ah, then I shall leave you."

"No, I didn't mean that, please stay."

Leliana knelt in silence for some moments watching him gaze at Andraste's statue. "You doubt the course laid out by being named Champion?"

"I am reluctant to presume."

"Even had you not been healed by our Holy Lady and given a task by her; I do not believe she would mind."

"How can you be so sure?"

"The people are terrified. They believe their King is lost. The nobility is fractured, much of the army was slaughtered and monsters besiege us. They have precious little hope and that is what a Champion gives. Why do you resist?"

"Wouldn't you?"

"I was shown my way to the Makers work through brutal means; many such realisations are through violence." She met his curious look but knew enough of him to know he would wait for her to tell him in her own time if she chose to. "I was betrayed by someone I held dear. I did something terrible for her and then I tried to undo it. She stabbed me, literally and left me to be tortured."

Jayden paled slightly. "I'm sorry Leliana."

Her voice lowered to a whisper. "Mother Dorothea saved me, or rather she gave me what I needed to save myself."

"Mother Dorothea of the Chantry in Valence?"

"Indeed, you know her?"

"We have never met, but I have heard of her." He held a neutral expression beneath her curious gaze. "Through Brother Genitivi; I believe she is a good woman."

"She is."

Realising Leliana was struggling with the memories Jayden shifted slightly. "So, you are to be my what did the Grand Cleric call it, spiritual advisor?"

Leliana flushed slightly at his look. "I did not ask for this."

"I didn't think you had. Though since I have apparently become the Grand Cleric's new play thing with the blessing of the Queen, it seems we will be spending a lot of time together."

"I won't interfere."

"Unless I do something the Grand Cleric would disapprove of; I would imagine you have specific instructions."

Leliana groaned. "Four pages."

Jayden laughed, shaking his head at the absurdity of the situation. "This is going to be interesting. So what are these instructions of yours?"

"Perhaps you should read for yourself, but please do not make it known I have shown you this."

Jayden took his time reading through the letter hesitating at the final point. "Remain chaste!" He snapped. "What right does the Grand Cleric have to dictate that; not to mention how exactly does she intend to enforce it?"

Leliana struggled to suppress her smile.

"I'm glad you find this so amusing."

"Why do you find this so distressing?"

"Because before the choice was mine and currently it is about respecting Delilah, now it is a Chantry dictate!"

"A pure Champion blessed by Andraste, surely you can see the relevance."

"What makes her think I am pure to begin with?"

"I believe she … asked around."

"Excuse me?"

"I believe a certain Captain of a seafaring vessel was most disappointed you turned her down and several employees of the Pearl lament your many polite refusals to take up their services."

Jayden felt his cheeks burn. "And she is basing it on that?"

Leliana leaned slightly closer. "It is my understanding my Lord, that people have taken far more notice of you than you realise."

"Why would they …" Jayden met her gaze. "What did you just call me?"

"I believe you heard me well enough and I do not think it wise to repeat. In truth, while I have been charged with your spiritual needs from the Chantry, I am an agent of the Queen and I have been charged with your protection and guidance."

Stunned, Jayden simply stared at her.

Leliana removed the necklace Erlina had given her and handed it to him as proof.

Jayden ran his fingers over the sword of mercy seeing the runes on the back knowing their significance, Erlina having explained them to him once. Handing it back he once more met her gaze. "So, you really are a bard."

"I am. Will you keep my secret as I will keep yours?"

Sighing Jayden rubbed his forehead; so many people knew now it seemed foolish to keep it a secret, but while Anora may be his sister she was also his Queen and if this was the course she wished to travel he would accommodate her, for the moment at least. "Alright." Jayden glanced at her thoughtfully. "Perhaps you can help me."

"If it is within my power."

"Teach me the skills of a bard."

Leliana hesitated. "That is a dangerous path and not one to be travelled lightly."

"More dangerous than what I face?"

"True enough. There are some drills I can teach you for dual blades that you might find useful. Ways to ensure you dispatch a target and return to a social situation as though nothing has occurred." Leaning her head to the side slightly Leliana looked him up and down. "You hide your feelings well, but there can always be improvements and it would not hurt to see that charm of yours a little more. I can aid you in ensuring any sign of weakness is hidden and we have methods of communication such as gestures in battle that might be of use to you. You can spin a tale true, but I can teach you how to entrance and enthrall with your words. What about music, can you play?"

Jayden swallowed painfully. "The fiddle when I was young, but it has been many years since I played and I swore never to again."

"Music can lull people into revealing much, it is a tool that should not be discounted. You will find me a hard task master, but given your own reputation I suspect you will cope."

Jayden nodded, no matter how difficult this path was he knew he needed these skills if he was to survive the Chantry's hold on him. They turned as the door opened, Leliana taking her leave as Alistair walked swiftly down the aisle kneeling where she had.

"Hope you don't mind me joining you." Alistair murmured.

"Not at all."

"Can we talk?"

"Isn't that what we are doing?"

"I mean somewhere private. Let's go to the cave."

"Alright." He almost laughed as Airyl darted ahead, the wolf clearly happier to be outside. As they walked Jayden was very aware Alistair was making sure they were not being followed. He couldn't help smiling as his friend conducted a thorough search of the cave, before finally accepting they were alone. "What's this about Ali?"

"I just wanted to make sure you were alright; about Gawain I mean."

Sitting on a rock Jayden met his friend's anxious gaze. "Cailan sent you?"

"He is worried, the last thing he wants to do is hurt you."

"As I told him I knew Gawain was his son when I first saw him; I knew about him and Lady Rosslyn when it happened."

Alistair flushed. "I know what he did was …"

"Ali you really don't need to do this. I bear Gawain no ill will just because of the circumstances of his conception. He is your nephew and so I know you will worry for him, but I would protect him with my life, if for no other reason than he is a prince of Ferelden." He sighed softly. "But the truth is I love him as much as if he was my nephew too." He swallowed painfully. "It seems strange that I am not bound in blood to Cailan's son. I always imagined being an uncle, but life often does not turn out the way we think." He shook his head and forced a smile. "Still perhaps our children will still play together."

Alistair grinned at the thought. "Count on it."

xXx

Dairren glanced nervously to Enchanters Dylan and Reece, Ser's Simon and Matthew standing by the door. He had not requested Senior Enchanter Wynne as Gabriel had overheard her saying she believed the most responsible use for the Ashes would be to aid the King. He imagined there would be a world of trouble for what they were about to do, but the Captain's words had taken root within him and he wanted to help stop the Blight. Ellowyn was also present, his friend determined that no one would stop them. He felt Gabriel squeeze his hand before he backed away to the window watching nervously. Getting as comfortable as possible on the bed Dairren nodded to the mages to signal he was ready. Anxiety building in his gut he took a breath to calm himself, feeling a wave of energy flow through him as they began their spell, the air around him seeming to sparkle gold with the Ashes. He felt his body relax, peace soothing his mind, he could almost feel the pain leave his body. As the spell ended, he was startled when Gabriel moved to his side, his fingers tenderly brushing against his cheeks realising they were wet with his tears. "The pain is gone." He whispered.

Gabriel hugged him gently before helping him to stand. He watched in awe as Dairren walked with confidence and ease, there was no stumbling shuffle, nor was he shaking with pain or exertion. He had colour in his cheeks and the dark circles beneath his eyes were gone.

Laughing in delight Ellowyn hugged Dairren. "How do you feel?"

"Wonderful, better than I ever have!"

Smiling Ellowyn squeezed his hand. "We will leave you and Gabriel for a while, but please come and see my brother soon. He will be thrilled to see you up and about."

"Of course." He turned to the mages. "Thank you, truly I … I am deeply grateful."

"It was our pleasure." Dylan smiled broadly, relieved it had worked.

"If you get into trouble on my behalf …" He hesitated as both mages smiled. "What?"

"As far as anyone is concerned Captain William ordered us, no blame will fall with us."

As they left the room Dairren turned to Gabriel, grinning and sinking into his hug. "I feel I could take on the world!"

"Yes, well no rushing into battle just yet." Gabriel cautioned smiling happily.

"Gabe, I want us to be together. I mean I know most people here have guessed if they are not outright saying it, but my father made it very clear I am not wanted in the family. I have no need to be involved in any political marriage, I am free of all of that."

"You father might think differently once he finds out you are alive."

"My life is with you." Dairren hesitated gazing at him nervously. "If you want that too."

Gently cupping his cheek Gabriel smiled lovingly. "How could you doubt it?"

xXx

Little over an hour later Dairren made his way to the solar finding Ellowyn and Fergus talking to Teagan and Loretta.

Standing Loretta crossed the room and hugged Dairren smiling at his surprise. "It is so wonderful to see you healed."

"I … thank you." He couldn't help smiling as Teagan gripped his hand, expressing his own congratulations before he and Loretta slipped out of the room. He glanced after Ellowyn who also excused herself before turning to Fergus. "I would like to officially report myself fit for duty." He grinned as Fergus laughed and hugged him tightly.

"You have no idea how happy I am. You saved my life and I have prayed daily for you to be healed. Still I think you should take it easy for a while."

"I feel better than I ever have. Truly the Ashes are amazing." He turned hearing footsteps, returning Aedan's grin and laughing at the fierce hug, grinning as Hunter barked happily.

"Damn it's good to see you on your feet again."

"It's good to be back on them, though I would imagine some will not be so happy."

"Do not concern yourself with that." Fergus stated. "All that matters is that you are healed."

xXx

Once Dylan had reported to him that Dairren was healed, Jayden had left the estate needing to clear his head, Airyl darting ahead. He was deeply relieved the Ashes had worked, but he also knew giving them to Dairren would likely bring him backlash from Arl Eamon if not many of the other nobles once they found out he had not used them for Cailan. He shook his head smiling slightly knowing whatever came he believed he had made the right choice and that was enough. A few hours later he found himself near Alistair's cottage, finding Morrigan, Perin, Serris and Ayanna in the garden deep in conversation. Not wanting to disturb them he headed inside, nodding to Rathnal who was making food, smiling slightly as Airyl took her usual place beside the fire. He politely refused a card game with the others and instead sank into a seat and leaned back his head; closing his eyes and letting out a sigh.

"The mantle of Champion weighing heavily?" Zevran asked, coming through from one of the bedrooms and sitting on a chair opposite him.

"You could say that."

"May I ask a question?"

Slowly Jayden opened his eyes, sitting up straighter and meeting Zevran's gaze. "Sure, why not."

"What was Holy Andraste like?"

"Inspiring and terrifying."

"And beautiful?"

Rolling his eyes Jayden smiled slightly. "Yes Zevran, very beautiful."

"Ah as I suspected, her statue likenesses do not do her justice I imagine."

"They don't come close."

"And you were healed … with flame?"

"I know how it sounds, but yes. There were several witnesses."

"You mistake me, I do not doubt you. I … I also heard of a … task."

"Is there a question in that?"

"Forgive me, but I am simply curious as to the kind of task Holy Andraste would set."

Jayden couldn't help the mischievous smile. "She sent me to see a dragon."

Frowning Zevran shifted slightly. "You jest of course; if you do not wish to discuss it, I understand."

"He's telling the truth." Alistair stated as he tossed a coin into the pot.

"Truly?"

"Will if I can have a word please." Rathnal stated coming through from the kitchen area.

Nodding Jayden glanced to Airyl who lifted her head, smiling he gestured for her to remain and followed Rathnal outside.

"That chat was getting a little cozy."

"Rath …"

"You do remember he is an assassin, don't you?"

"I do, but I like him as odd as that is. If we had met in other circumstances, I think we would be friends by now."

Sighing Rathnal leaned against the wall. "Thank the Maker it's not just me."

"What?"

"You know he reminds me of Zef, that mischievous grin and his sense of humour. I know I shouldn't let that influence me, but no matter how much I want to hate him I just can't. I can't maintain this cold facade much longer."

Jayden chuckled softly. "We are a pair. Perhaps we should get Ali to remind us daily that he had a contract on us."

"It wouldn't do much good, Ali is softening towards him as well though he would deny it with his last breath, it doesn't help that Airyl is relaxed around him. Charming bastard has us all in his net. Maker he is going to kill me in my sleep, isn't he?"

"He's more likely to flirt you to death."

"I never know if he is being serious or I would know how to react to him. Damn him how did he manage this?"

"Well he is trained in the art of manipulation and getting people to like him."

"Not helping."

"I know, but I do think he is genuine. The contract was just business for him and I believe him when he says he will not follow through on it. The problem is I don't have the best track record of trusting the right people and I can't trust myself in this. I like him, but liking someone isn't trust, that he still has to earn."

"So, like him, just don't trust him?"

"Unless you have a better idea."

Rathnal glanced through the window seeing Airyl take a mabari treat from Zevran. "Fine, Maker help us all."

xXx

Author Note: Thank you for reading. I hope you enjoyed.