6- Crash Course in Highever
After Mari had left, Maric said, "Well, she's different … and from a different world."
"And, she likely arrived due to something someone here did … some magic portal that must have originated on Thedas since her world didn't have magic," Loghain said. "That doesn't ease my concerns, Maric. It still means that it could be just a story." He held up a hand to stop arguments. "I think she believes what she says is the truth. That doesn't necessarily mean it is."
Andwn glanced at Duncan to get permission to speak. When Duncan made a motion to go ahead, Andwn explained, "She mentioned that she had a dream of a bald elf who told her, 'Not what I expected.' It could have been a dreamwalker. There's a Tevinter or Elvhen term that escapes me at the moment. The Eluvians … the name of those magic portals … are Elvhen. The one she exited in the Deep Roads seemed to be one. They are documented in the Circle … and in Orzammar, apparently."
"You can go to the Shaperate and ask about the portals used to get from the surface to the Deep Roads outposts of the dwarves. There's at least one outpost up here on the coast somewhere, I think," Dugan said.
"I've seen one of those outposts. There is one outside Gwaren, as well … now closed off by one of those barrier doors. There's no portal, just a very long winding ramp down. The Alamarri traded salt with the dwarves, long ago," Loghain said. "Nevertheless, we should tread carefully." He turned to Duncan. "Why are you going to allow her to travel with you and not be a Warden? That seems unusual."
Duncan smiled. "At first, I was going to encourage her to remain in Highever; however, as we traveled more and I witnessed her curiosity and intelligence, I could see the value of her remaining with us if she wished. The Grey Wardens have always taken on companions, those willing to brave the world of the Grey Warden to assist us with … well, mundane things while we stick to our main goal. Besides, she needs melee training to survive the life of a Grey Warden. On the other hand, Mari has proven to be sharp and thoughtful. For example, when I told her about the First Warden limiting our recruitment in Ferelden to 'avoid annoying the farmers and nobles', Mari suggested that I find a secret location where we can house 'secret' Wardens. She rightly noted that it never turns out well when one waits to prepare."
"The Orlesian First Warden wants to limit Ferelden recruitment? Why do you think he really wants to do that?" Maric asked.
"Ferelden is already apace with preparation and vigilance. I believe he fears that Ferelden will become a 'better' Grey Warden example than Orlais and he cannot have that, of course," Duncan replied with a sigh.
Alistair had to smile. Duncan was playing right into Loghain's, even Maric's and Bryce's biases against Orlais … as well as his own … and it was working.
"Once you find this secret location, Duncan, alert me and we can start that recruitment," Maric said.
"Yes, we need to be prepared with Ferelden Grey Wardens if for no other reason than the Ferelden Wardens outshine Orlais," Loghain agreed.
"Wait," Alistair interrupted with a thought. "I might know of a place. Didn't you mention last visit about that old friend of yours, Levi Dryden, telling you he could get to Soldier's Peak, Duncan?"
"Levi Dryden," Duncan mused. "I've just not had the time …"
"Soldier's Peak?" Bryce said. "That was an old fortress during King Arland's time. Dryden, you say? He may have a familial reason. Sophia Dryden was forced into joining the Wardens or be executed. She became the Warden-Commander, in charge of Soldier's Peak at the time. She couldn't let that forced sentence go and tried to organize sedition against the King. Teyrn Cousland at that time was assassinated for his involvement. Can it possibly still be standing?"
"I knew about Soldier's Peak being the place the Grey Wardens got kicked out of for hundreds of years, but I didn't know about those details," Cailan said, "and I pride myself on knowing Ferelden's history."
"It wasn't something we Couslands were proud of, but it's in the history books that weren't re-written by King Arland. He could never let it be known that his nobles didn't cow to him on all things," Bryce said. "The mining tunnel entrance that supposedly leads up to the Peak is on the way to Denerim, Duncan. I'd never thought to check into it before this moment. I always assumed it was long gone."
"Levi Dryden is a descendant of Sophia Dryden and he's here in Highever at the moment, working with another family member to set up a flower business, of all things," Alistair said with a smile. "Mother told me all about it."
"We have time, Duncan," Anton suggested. "If it's tumbled down, it won't be that much of a time issue. But, even if it's still standing, we can explore it a bit and then come back to secure it and make it fit for habitation again." He winked. "Secretly, of course."
"Might be a good place for Mari to be in charge in the future, once she's toured Ferelden and met a few more folk," Dugan added.
"Hah! Way to scare her off good, Dugan," Makis added.
"With your leave, I would like to meet with Levi and see if we can arrange a stop to check on Soldier's Peak in a few days," Duncan asked.
Bryce just gave a sly smile. "Soldier's Peak is part of the Highever Teyrnir. I think I would need to have Elle accompany you to look it over. Fergus is traveling in the north with his family at the moment. Part of the marriage agreement was that Fergus would take Oriana and Oren to Antiva two or three times a year."
"Well, I'm going if Elle's not!" Cailan burst out.
"Going where?" Elle asked as she entered the room. They brought her up to speed whereupon she turned to Alistair. "So, will you be going along as a Warden recruit or as Highever guard … Lieutenant, maybe? Does that sweeten the deal?"
Alistair smiled. "I am very grateful for everyone's regard, but I plan to give Fiona a chance to talk me out of becoming a Warden … or a noble … one more time before I actually make a final decision. She just arrived and is staying with Mother and Father." He smirked at Elle. "Like you have the power to grant an officer position. Captain Langstar might have a problem with that — noble's daughter or not. I think I should tell him you said that."
Elle got a horrified look on her face. "No, no, no! You must have misunderstood! I never said that!" he said with a final grin and wink.
"Did you get Mari settled with Aldous, Elle?" Bryce asked.
Elle got instantly serious. "I did. I … I cannot fathom what that poor woman is going through. I need to go speak with Mother and arrange some riding lessons with Brinna and some melee training with Marcus." She looked at Duncan. "She mentioned those things as her first priorities after time with Aldous."
Duncan gave Elle a warm smile. "Thank you so much. I'm afraid Mari is still a bit unsettled from what she has gone through."
"Well, hopefully, we can give her help in some of the basics so she can begin to fit in, Duncan," Bryce said. He turned to Elle, "Brinna mentioned last week that she had a few horses that were gentle. Ask her to recommend one we can give Mari." He looked back at Duncan and smiled. "It's better to begin training and stay with a good horse in the beginning."
"That is more than generous, Your Lordship," Duncan replied.
"And, if Soldier's Peak turns out to be usable, the Terynir will be formalizing it to go back to the Wardens as well," Bryce replied.
"It's only a start on the gratitude of Ferelden, Warden-Commander," Maric said. "We have time. Your vigilance has put us in a position to actually have a chance should … the worst happen … no, I shall not say the word, yet."
∞∞∞!¡!¡∞∞∞
"So, you come from a different world and know nothing about Thedas?" Aldous asked fairly incredulously.
"That's correct, sir," Mari replied as she looked around the walls of bookshelves. "I'm even just learning how to read your language. We seem to speak the same language, but your writing system is quite different."
"Hmm, well, well, well …" he mused. "Extraordinary."
"And, I'm afraid I'm guilty of asking a lot of questions. Just tell me when you've reached your limit," Mari said.
The older man just laughed. "Young lady, if you knew the unenthusiastic children I have to teach, you would know that I welcome your questions. So, history or government?"
"Government … and how it has evolved through history," she replied with a grin.
He laughed again and pulled out a small book. "This is a book I give to very young children, but the Teyrn has given leave for me to loan you some tomes. So, take this and see if you can read it at all."
Mari opened it and slowly started reading it aloud to Aldous. She'd had over a week to work with Anton en route and they had spent every moment possible working on her learning the written language. They had written up a vocabulary of common phrases and sentences and she was working on a translation dictionary of sorts.
Aldous would often stop her and correct her translation to spoken language … and, true to her word, she would often stop and ask him to expand on the descriptions given. "This is fascinating! The evolution of feudal government is so much more complicated than any of the ones I wrote about in my stories." She smiled at Aldous. "I used to be a writer of fictional stories about worlds like Ferelden. They would have been much more interesting if I'd had an example of the Alamarri evolving into the Ferelden of today."
"Well, I doubt I could begin to read your alphabet either, but I wouldn't mind hearing some of your tales someday … however, now we need to press on. Lady Cousland said you would be leaving in a few days."
"Right!" Mari kept reading, asking for more details and side questions about history … until an older woman entered the room which caused Aldous to jump up and bow. Mari followed suit, just because.
"Your Ladyship! Mari, this is Teyrna Eleanor Cousland. Your Ladyship, may I introduce you to Marisia Park, my new pupil, or Mari, as she likes to be called."
Mari bowed. "It is an honor to meet you, Your Ladyship."
"Well, at least they taught you manners on that world you came from," the Teyrna said.
Mari had to stifle her groan, but could not stifle her tears. "Your Ladyship, I'm afraid that my old world had a distinct lack of manners … and tolerance. Those things may have caused my world's destruction more than any other." She quickly wiped her eyes.
"Oh my dear girl," Eleanor said as she embraced Mari. "I'm so sorry to hear that." She pulled back and smiled at Mari, "Know that you are welcome here as often and as long as you need."
They were interrupted from saying anything else by the entrance of three very exuberant children. Aldous said, "Children! This is a place of learning and furthermore, your Teyrna is present! Show some manners!" He turned to Mari. "It seems that manners have gone wanting here as well, Mari."
The children stopped in their tracks and bowed and almost said all the things they needed to say.
"I apologize, Mari. We will need to interrupt our lesson until tomorrow. Take that Ferelden History of Ruling book and read as much as you can this evening. Write out any questions you have in your letters and in Ferelden alphabet. Worry not about precision at this point. Errors are the basis for learning." He glared at the kids. "Maker knows these children have those basics down."
He handed Mari some parchment, a quill and ink along with the book while the grumbling children were taking their seats and pulling out homework of theirs.
"Maker's Mercy, is that the pack you have to carry all the time?" Eleanor asked.
"Yes, Your Ladyship, but the frame is made from aluminum, an element on my world." Mari paused. "I wish I knew how it's made, but metallurgy is not one of my skill sets."
The Teyrna smiled. "Follow me. Let's get you settled in one of the guest rooms so you can at least quit having to carry that thing around, even if it isn't as heavy as it looks to be."
Mari had a feeling she was going to miss access to the Internet a great deal. On the one hand, she missed the easy access to information about almost anything; but, on the other hand, information like that could cause problems on a world not ready for it. If indeed, any world was really ever ready for it.
Balance … of power and other things … was always a touchy thing for her in writing her fictional stories. As in her stories … and in Ferelden's past reality … balance never seemed to be a goal to those in charge. True democracy was a government in balance … compromise was the goal, not winning at all costs … sometimes realizing that both sides were wrong … or right. Personal choices need not be lorded over everyone.
True to her word, the Teyrna showed Mari to a really nice bedroom. It even had a stone tub along one wall. The Teyrna showed her how to call for a servant to bring bath water. Mari was really looking forward to that evening in the tub! She just dumped her backpack into a large chest and locked it with the provided key. Then Mari was given a tour of the castle while Duncan and the others went into Highever to meet with someone.
She met quite a few of the castle staff, but the one who really caught her attention was Nan, the head cook and the woman who helped to raise all of the Cousland children. One of the three names that Elle mentioned to confide in. The Teyrna was called away and Nan told her about Fergus, the first son and heir, and Oriana, his wife, and son, Oren. Fergus and his family were spending time in Antiva with Oriana's family.
Nan also had stories to tell! The first one was a lesson tale about the tribal chief's dog Hohaku and the ultimate result of pride. The next one was a humorous one about a young Elle and her mabari, Midnight. Even though Nan's words were harsh about Midnight's antics, Mari could tell she had a soft place in her heart for the dog.
Which was shortly proven out when Elle and Midnight came to the kitchens to collect Mari. "There's that dog, proud as you please!" Nan said. However, when Midnight came to sit in front of Nan with his wide eyes and doggie smile, she reached into a pocket of her kitchen apron and pulled out several rather large pieces of ham.
"All right, Nan, I need to steal Mari from you, if that's all right," Elle said.
"One minute," she replied and went off to open a jar in the back of the kitchen. When she returned with two cookies from the jar, she added, "Now that you know where that jar is, you may stop by anytime to get one … and only one … cookie from time to time."
"Wow! You must have made an impression on Nan!" Elle said before biting into her cookie.
"Well, if you had kept to my rule, you would also be welcome, but you lost that right when you took the entire jar once … and I know for a fact they did not all go to the orphans at the Chantry, young lady! Now, off with you both, I need to finish dinner."
After a nice lengthy bath and dinner, the rest of the evening was pretty much up to Mari how to spend her time.
She really had been missing quick showers and daily baths.
Alistair and Elle took her on a tour of the city of Highever. Mari bristled at the Alienage, that elves stayed in their own ghetto, of sorts. But, Elle explained that they wished to live there and took Mari inside to show her.
She met the spiritual leader of the alienage, Hahren Sarethia, and heard the story of how they lived there and of the vhenadahl tree. She thought a long time about it and realized that the elves were family there. They were safe. The guards protected them and really didn't keep them behind locked gates. However, the tales of other Alienages did sound harsh. Val Royeux, the capital of Orlais, being the worst. But, not as bad as Tevinter. They had slaves there. It sounded horrible. Mari reminded herself that she was a newb here and to keep an open mind as much as she could.
While Mari was learning from the Hahren, it didn't escape her notice that Elle was speaking to a lot of the elves in whispers. As they were leaving, Mari asked Elle about it.
Alistair chuckled and Elle smiled. "It's simple logic, really. Elves work in every house, shop, smithy in Highever. Or, Denerim. Or, Amaranthine. Or, Redcliffe. On and on. They have family here and in the other Alienages. They know a lot of things. I realized that at a young age. I played with many of them that were speaking to me just now. They don't gossip all the time. In fact, they are very discreet and only share what they think I should know. I don't 'send them on missions' or 'assign targets to spy on' … even so, many things that they've mentioned to me have ultimately paid off." Elle got a sad look. "That noble you saw leaving is my betrothed, Nathaniel Howe … and we are in the middle of a situation with his father, Arl Howe. A dangerous one. They were telling me about snippets of conversations that they overheard from the soldiers going with him to Kirkwall. Much like you heard."
Mari lightly took Elle's hand. "You offered to listen to me, Elle. I offer you the same consideration, if you wish."
Elle seemed truly touched. Alistair just shook his head. "If it's okay, I'll just … do anything else."
The ladies laughed at Alistair. They decided to drop serious conversations for the evening and just went to have some fun.
The rest of the four days were mostly spent with Aldous — when he wasn't teaching children. Mari also studied her assignments and helped Anton with some of his projects. From time to time, she sparred in the Couslands' very nice practice ring. She was starting to actually make contact with the wooden dagger rather than land on her butt all the time. Elle was spot on about Marcus, the weapons master. Mari was tired and embarrassed most of the time.
Mari wondered if the servants were getting tired of her daily bathing; however, she did manage to keep it to one a day.
And, she got some time with Brinna, the stable master, who taught her the rudimentary things about riding her new mode of transportation, Rosy … a gorgeous, generous and patient brown mare with a cream-colored star in the fur on top of her nose … a gift from the Couslands. She would soon get ample practice while riding to Denerim.
The Couslands were a remarkable family. With some of the history Aldous told her, the Couslands were as much a part of the bedrock of Ferelden as the Theirin family currently on the throne. She learned an incredible amount in the short time she had with Aldous — including the legend of Flemeth. It made Mari wonder if the abomination she was rumored to have become could still be alive. How long did demons live?
The old teacher gave her three smallish tomes of history, civics and botany. He said to keep them or return them if she wished. They weren't too heavy, compared to many of the volumes on the bookshelves in the library, but, together, they did add an appreciable amount of weight to her backpack. She'd have a core of steel pretty soon.
Finally, the day before Alistair's name-day arrived. Mari met Fiona and instantly liked her. After dinner that evening — much to Duncan's and Maric's disappointment, Mari thought — Fiona had well-reasoned arguments against the Grey Wardens and the nobility. She held back no secrets. The Calling Duncan had mentioned earlier came after thirty years or so. So, add shortened life span to that list of negatives. Everyone was aghast at the sacrifices that people had to make to become Grey Wardens, but it made sense to Mari. What she'd learned about the darkspawn scourge certainly made those sacrifices necessary. Fiona was not pleased when Mari brought that up.
Mari was dubious about the whole soul destruction thing when a Grey Warden killed an Archdemon, but kept her doubts to herself. Reluctantly, Mari also kept quiet about her own feelings of the concept of a 'soul'. The bottom line was that nothing was working to kill that first Archdemon … and then it did die … as did the Grey Warden who made the killing blow. The first Archdemon kept rising back up until all those joining rituals and practices were instituted. No other Archdemon since had resurrected again. Perhaps there was another way, but maybe not. Quite simply, the Grey Wardens found a way. It was a rather large positive for Mari joining them at some point.
It had been hundreds of years since the last Archdemon. With no way to permanently document every detail of what happened last time, the truth of the matter was that the Grey Wardens worked … as horrifying and gag-inducing that it all was. There were tales told about Warden Garahel, the Elvhen archer, and his griffon, Crookytail. Mari was invited to the Alienage one evening to hear the tale. That was where she learned that griffons were extinct now, much to her disappointment.
After breakfast the next morning Mari carefully pre-packed the things she wouldn't need that day and wedged in the books … and cookies and bread and cheese and muffins from Nan (took over the backpack space of all the MREs they'd eaten on the way to Highever) … all in preparation to head out of Highever at first light the next day. As she snuggled into her new cloak and left her room, she found Alistair pacing down the hallway. "Lost?" she asked him with a laugh.
He turned and smiled. "No, actually, I was waiting for you. Have you been on the ramparts yet?"
"No, I assumed those would be off limits for us non-guard types," she replied.
"I have permission," he said with a grin and waved for her to follow him. After a climb up some narrow stairs lit by torch sconces, they exited to a magnificent view of Highever and surrounding areas. The fields were covered with snow, but Mari could envision them come spring … assuming they had spring here. Seasons weren't a topic that came up with Aldous. "I like to come up here to think," Alistair said quietly.
"Good evening, Alistair," a guard said in passing. "Company?"
"Aye, someone to talk to about things … who doesn't really have a vested interest in the path of my life," Alistair replied.
The guard smiled. "A rare gift. Carry on, then." He opened the door and went back down.
"I'm not sure what that means, Alistair," Mari said.
He smiled. "You offered to listen if Elle needed someone to talk to … and, to be honest, she gave you high marks after you two spent time talking the other evening. So, if you're also willing to listen to me, I have something to discuss. If that's okay."
"Of course, it's okay, Alistair," Mari replied. "Elle also gave you high marks in friendship."
He nodded his head toward a corner overlooking both the city and the nearby farmlands. He walked up to the city side first and pointed to a roof two streets away from the castle wall. "That is where I live with my mother and father, whom you met last night at dinner at the castle. As you know, Gilsen Laren is a well-known and respected blacksmith in Highever. He and Nalah raised me as if I were their own child. I owe them for the man I am today. Before I spoke to Fiona, I was almost certain I was going to volunteer for the Grey Wardens."
"To tell you the truth, I sort of put the Grey Wardens down a notch on my list as well. However, the need is real and important, so I may move it up once I've finished touring Ferelden," Mari said. "So, thinking of moving into the Palace in Denerim?"
"Maker, no!" He laced the fingers of his hands on top of his head. "I don't know what I should do, Mari."
"Actually, a little perspective. You do have a rare gift … and I don't mean me. You're nobility by birthright; however, you're the second son, and not of Queen Rowan." She sighed at his look of surprise. "Yes, I've been learning quite a bit here. Aldous is a great teacher. Anyway … there are no real strings attached to anything. What do you want to do, Alistair? Forget my opinion and everyone else's opinion," she pointed a finger at his chest. "How does Alistair want to live his life?" Mari had a fleeting memory of her mother asking those kinds of questions. There were many times that the young Marisia had doubts. It was a good memory.
Fortunately, Alistair didn't notice she'd gotten distracted with her own thoughts for a few seconds. He put his hands down and sighed. He turned toward the city. "I want to stay here as Alistair Laren, but that's not possible anymore."
"Why not?" Mari asked.
He turned back to face Mari. "Everyone in Ferelden knows who I am. Rumor is something that the Maker himself cannot control," Alistair explained with a frown that would, no doubt, impress even Loghain.
Mari leaned against a crenellation to face him. "Then, the rumor mill will also get the word out that you are Alistair Laren of Highever, son of Gilsen and Nalah. True, it's not the same as no one knowing about your birth parentage, but, honestly, your face? I don't need to say any more."
That got a smile out of Alistair. "I guess you're right about the face. But, whatever I decide to do, someone … more than one someone … will be disappointed."
"There are other options, Alistair," she said.
"Like what?"
"Uh uh, that's for you to figure out. If I say something, then that just puts me on the list of people you think you might disappoint, Alistair," Mari explained with a small smile. "Just remember. The people you are so worried about disappointing will completely accept your decision, whatever it might be. And, they won't care for you any less. I haven't known them all that long, but you can get a vibe off folks when they're hedging their feelings."
"You're speaking other-world-ese again … vibe?" he asked.
"Sorry. Uh, let's see," Mari pondered a moment. "For example, if you pay close attention when bartering with a merchant, even if they're very good, you can usually tell if they are offering you a fair deal. They have a sense or vibration around them that you can feel. Of course, if they're very, very good, you're hos … you're not going to catch it." She wasn't sure she could explain "hosed". She wasn't really sure she knew where hosed came from.
Alistair looked down toward his home. "Maker, who invited him?" he said.
Mari looked down to spy an older man and a couple of guards walking toward Alistair's house. "Who's that?"
"Arl Eamon Guerrin, brother-in-law to the king," Alistair replied.
"You don't like him?" she asked.
"Not really." Alistair grinned at Mari. "He has a wrong 'vibe'. Mother and Father don't hold him in very high regard. His wife is an Orlesian leftover from the rebellion," he said and sighed. Then, after a few moments of thought, he smiled and hugged Mari. "I think I know what I'm going to do. Let's go."
She was surprised he invited her to come along. It was killing Mari not to beg him to tell his decision, but that was the bed she made by not offering her own solution. Thanks, Mom, for helping me deal with my own demons while growing up, Mari thought to herself. I think you just helped Alistair, too.
As they got downstairs and entered the street toward Alistair's home, they caught up to Maric. Alistair held up his hand to stop Mari and dragged the king ahead to speak in private.
A totally unexpected voice came from behind her and made her jump. Loghain chuckled. He motioned with his chin toward Alistair and Maric. "What's going on?"
Mari had to take a moment to catch her breath again. She turned and saw he was wearing plate armor. "I should have heard that," she mumbled. "Arl Eamon somebody just arrived. We were watching from the ramparts when we saw it. Alistair is probably asking if it was the king's idea." She turned to face Loghain. "How can you be so stealthy in all that metal?"
"Practice … and you had your attention elsewhere," he explained. "I assure you it was not intentional."
She narrowed her eyes. "Right … no biting today," she said while wagging her finger at him.
He laughed. "Most people are intimidated by me, madam. Since you hail from another world … or so you say … I give you dispensation until you learn more about Ferelden." Then, his smile faded and he nodded toward Alistair. "Do you know what his decision is?" Loghain asked.
"Thank you for your gracious accommodation of my alienness, Your Lordship. However, I admit to a bit of disappointment that I must be intimidated in the future," she said with a smile. "Anyway, I told Alistair to keep his decision to himself. I didn't want to put myself on that rather lengthy list of people he might disappoint today," she said.
He motioned ahead. "Time to find out, it seems."
Alistair dropped back to speak with Mari and Loghain while Maric went inside. "I'm not sure that everyone's going to fit in our house."
"Eamon can stand outside," Loghain grumbled.
"Maric told him to stay away," Alistair explained. "Even Maric doesn't know how he knew to show up today."
Mari turned to Loghain and mouthed the word, "Spy." She repeated the action to Alistair. It made him frown more.
Alistair opened the door. He was right. It was very crowded inside; however, a path opened for Alistair to walk to the head of the table, left open on purpose, no doubt. Alistair headed there and turned to face the group: Gilsen, Nalah, Maric, Fiona, Cailan, Loghain, Mari, Bryce, Elle and Midnight, Eamon and Duncan. There was also a Highever guard present as well as a Templar. Mari hadn't met them, but Alistair smiled at each of them.
"Alrighty then, let's get this done," Alistair began.
"Surely you're not going to just let the boy make this most important decision on his own, Maric!" Eamon abruptly interrupted.
Alistair looked at Maric. Maric just turned to the Highever guard and said, "Captain Langstar, if Arl Eamon Guerrin speaks again, please ask for Ser Cauthrien to come inside and escort him away." Before Eamon could interrupt again, Maric added, "You were not invited here, Eamon, for reasons that have just become obvious. I agreed to allow you to stay if you kept quiet. Do not push me today."
Loghain added, "Ser Cauthrien should be right outside the door by now."
"My apologies, Your Majesty," Eamon said as he took a deep breath and leaned against the wall.
Alistair looked around the table. "In all fairness to His Lordship, the rest of you have been able to have a say on the matter of my future." He looked at Eamon and smiled. "Please, Arl Eamon, tell me how you think this boy should spend his life."
"Perhaps I spoke before thinking things through, Alistair. I apologize," Eamon began. "You are the bastard of our king and of a Grey Warden mage from Orlais. First and foremost, you must pledge to never take up arms against our rightful king and his rightful Crown Prince."
"That was harsh," Mari said quietly. Loghain smirked. It seemed he was the only one to hear her … or the only one willing to admit they heard her.
With his next question, Mari saw a perceptive side of the young royal bastard that she had not seen yet. "And, Arl Eamon, if I pledge such a thing, and Maker forbid that something tragic should occur to King Maric and Prince Cailan, will you pledge not to drag me onto the throne?"
Maric clapped. "Good question, Alistair. Yes, Eamon, if your sister's childless son and I fall tragically for some reason, do you pledge to abide by Alistair's decision today?"
"I … well … should he be the last Theirin, that would change things," Eamon stammered. He actually harrumphed. "But, Alistair, do you pledge to never cause such a situation?"
Aldous spoke to Mari of Arl Eamon's great political finesse. It put Mari on edge. She wondered if he was just playing to the crowd. That addition of 'Orlais' to Fiona's description was directed toward Loghain, no doubt. Loghain had never mentioned anything to Mari yet, but a number of people over the time she was in Highever were very clear about his feelings on Orlais. Feelings that many around the table shared.
Personally, Mari hated politics, but she studied it. She always put politics and conspiracies in her stories. Sadly, such things mirrored the real world — both real worlds apparently — a great deal.
Alistair smiled. "I'll get to that." He turned and got a drink of something in a mug handed to him by Nalah. "Thanks, Mother," he said to her. Then, he turned to the rest of the table. "Okay, I never really wished for all this falderal to happen today. I really didn't. But, it did." He took a deep breath. "Everyone wants a definitive answer. Everyone is going to be disappointed … except maybe Mari," he said as he motioned to where she was standing by Loghain. "She wisely told me that it was my decision to make and refused to give me her advice, lest she be one of those who was disappointed."
Alistair turned to Maric first, "Your Majesty, I have a Theirin birthright. I hope you realize that I am proud of that heritage." He paused as Loghain put his hand on Eamon's shoulder to keep him from talking. He looked at Eamon. "I could no more deny that than deny I have this face. However, I am not, nor shall I ever be, in line for the throne of Ferelden. You may put that in writing, Arl Eamon, and I will gladly sign it. I suggest you political types figure out that line of succession before something tragic occurs. On the other hand, I do believe I may have something to contribute to the kingdom and would like to occasionally be a part of your lives and duties, Your Majesty and Prince Cailan."
"You might regret that once Anora has time to think about it," Cailan said with a smirk. "So, you're not going to be a Grey Warden, either?"
"Not at the moment," Alistair said as he looked at Duncan. "If a Blight ever comes to Ferelden, Duncan, please come visit me again."
"I shall hold you to that … Your Highness," Duncan said.
Eamon just couldn't stay quiet. "Ser Danas, aren't you going to say anything? I believe the best place to keep the bastard safe is in the Chantry, as a Templar, isn't that why you're here?"
Mari found it curious that Eamon knew the Templar's name. "I thought he was supposed to be good at politics," she whispered in Loghain's ear. He only shrugged, but he looked like a storm cloud about to break.
"Your Lordship," Ser Danas said and then nodded toward Nalah, "Mistress Laren felt that Alistair may need the spiritual support I could offer should things get out of hand. Alistair has the Chantry's full support. Her Reverence and I believe he should be able to choose whatever role he wishes to take."
"Wow, thanks, Ser Danas," Alistair said. "And, please thank Her Reverence."
Ser Danas nodded. "Thank you, Alistair, for all your hard work for the Chantry, which would be severely limited by becoming a Templar."
Eamon looked like someone hit him with a fish. It made Mari almost giggle when she recalled that Redcliffe was known for its fishing trade. Clearly, that was not the answer he was expecting. However, he recovered fairly quickly.
"So, we come down to it," Alistair said as he turned to the guard. "Captain Langstar, I would like to make petition to become a guard of Highever. However, I would require leave from time to time to fulfill any duties that Her Highness Princess Anora may require of me in Denerim. And, if a Blight comes to Ferelden, I give advance notice of resignation to become a Grey Warden."
"I offer you the position of Highever guard initiate until such time that you prove yourself to me," Langstar said. He turned to Elle, "Lieutenant's rank may be in Alistair's future, but not right away."
"I apologize, Captain Langstar," Elle mumbled.
"Thank you, Captain. When should I report to you?" Alistair asked.
While Alistair and Langstar discussed basic details, Mari looked around the room. As she called it, Maric and Fiona both were smiling, as were Gilsen and Nalah … all proud parents. Cailan was grinning, but Mari had a feeling that his exuberance was his normal state. Mari hoped to meet Anora someday. Duncan was smiling and even Loghain had a wistful look to him. Not at all what she was told to expect from him. Gruff with a good sense of humor underneath it all. Bryce and Elle seemed most pleased that Alistair was going to stay in Highever … at least most of the time.
Eamon. Well, he looked blank. Perhaps he was a good politician and Mari just didn't know enough to even begin to figure out his motivations. Maybe he was just angry that he had to rely on a spy to find out about Alistair's name-day choices.
"Now, my lords and ladies, we have cake and some special cheeses just for Alistair's celebration. I pray that you all have time in your busy schedules to share some joy with us on our boy's transition into manhood," Gilsen said.
Now, that was a politician. No way anyone would leave, Mari thought.
Except …
"If you will excuse me," Eamon said. "I have had a tiring trip and wonder if I might be shown to my room."
Elle stood. "Follow me, Your Lordship." She leaned over to Alistair. "I'll be right back. Mother wished to be alerted to join if that's all right."
Alistair was beaming. "Of course, my lady!" Elle just rolled her eyes.
Once Eamon left, everyone was beginning to relax until Ser Danas said, "I do have more to report, Alistair." The room quieted. "Her Reverence got an urgent message from Val Royeaux suggesting that she seriously consider taking the bastard son of King Maric under the protection of the Chantry by beginning training as a Templar. It may be something that Arl Eamon was promised to happen which may explain his erratic behavior right now. Her Reverence ignored it and plans to send a reply that you shall always be protected by the Chantry in any endeavor you choose. I do fear that Grand Cleric Elemena may try to interfere."
Captain Langstar spoke up. "Blast the Chantry, begging your pardon, Ser Danas. Alistair, you do not need to be cornered into anything. You have seen eighteen years and are old enough to make your own decisions."
"I'll have Anora speak with Elemena," Cailan said. "She has a way with the old bat." In response to Maric saying Cailan's name through gritted teeth, Cailan added, "Also, begging your pardon, Ser Danas."
Ser Danas just kept his rather enigmatic smile and said, "Her Grace, Grand Cleric Elemena has guided the Chantry in Denerim for many years. Now, if you will excuse me, I need to return to my duties. Maker's Blessings on your future of service to Highever, Alistair." Everyone said farewell to Ser Danas as he bowed and departed.
"We are forgetting one other potential fly in the ointment," Nalah said. Mari found it amusing that was a maxim here as well as on Earth. Of course, she had seen that Thedas had more than ample numbers of flies to make that saying logical. "His Lordship's wife is Orlesian and her family has strong ties with the Empress and the Divine. They may have other designs for our Alistair."
"My thoughts were heading that direction as well, Mistress Laren," Loghain said.
Eleanor and Elle came in just at that moment. The Teyrna greeted everyone and then sat next to her husband. "Elle has filled me in. We need to find that spy, Bryce, not to arrest but watch him or her. Maker, maybe we should place one in Redcliffe." Then, she squeezed her daughter's hand. "Or does Elle already have one there?"
Elle only smiled and shrugged her shoulders as she popped a piece of fruit in her mouth.
Duncan walked over to Alistair and squeezed his shoulder. "These machinations are not anything you can do anything about, Alistair. Just do a good job for Captain Langstar."
"Thank you, Duncan," Maric said. "I should have thought of saying that."
"Hmm? Were you talking about something?" Alistair said. "This cake is delicious and the cheeses are the best. Everyone better get their share before I eat it all. The captain's giving me until Monday to get ready, so I think I can sleep all this off in a day or so."
Mari watched everyone fondly celebrate Alistair's eighteenth birthday. He was right. The cake and the cheeses were delicious! And, they were a diversion from the worry she could see in his eyes.
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AN: Thank you so much, Judy. Your review always packs such joy for me. :) Next time, Soldier's Peak is discovered. The Drydens set up shop and prepare to start some sprucing up. And, then … Denerim!