As they exited the gateway Rathnal felt a spasm of guilt that he was choosing his own desire to protect his grandfather and Gwaren over the mission to find the Dalish.

"We can do this." Ayanna stated confidently seeing his conflict. "We need support and we still don't know where Teyrn Loghain stands with regards to us. We know he distrusts Wardens. If you can, save his Teyrnir and we might just work our way into his good graces."

"If it can be saved."

"Then if not save his people, evacuate them as discussed."

Rathnal nodded, experiencing a sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach as he saw Alistair catch hold of Jayden's arm and pull him out of hearing of the others. He knew his friend had been working himself up into a state over the continuing conflict between Jayden and the King and seemed to think it was up to him to resolve it.

"Don't start Ali." Jayden muttered.

"Just listen please. Cailan is devastated about how he acted towards you and Airyl, but he was under the influence of the Archdemon."

"I don't want to hear it."

"He hates himself for hurting you. I don't understand why you are being so stubborn about this. You know the Archdemon was influencing him."

"I know you want things to go back to the way they were between us, but that is not going to happen."

"Why?"

"Because the Archdemon may have been influencing him, but it didn't say those words or carry out his actions, they were Cailan's choice. I don't care how he feels, all I care about regarding him is that he does his bloody duty and starts leading our people. Our relationship is unimportant."

"You can't really mean that."

"I absolutely mean it."

"You need to forgive him." Alistair stated softly, recoiling at the immediate fury in Jayden's eyes.

"Why? Why would I forgive him? Would you forgive him if he was going to kill Kolby? Would you forgive him if he blamed you for the whole damn blight? Would you forgive him if he blamed you for your mother's death? If he told you he doubted there was a threat on your life, that it was just a ploy concocted by Howe and my father to keep me from my father's sight because he blamed me too!"

"He didn't mean any of that." Alistair whispered his face ashen.

"Maybe he did." Jayden's voice broke. "My own sister blames me for mom's death, maybe they all do. I just … I remember at the time thinking being sent away was a punishment because of what happened to mom. And this damn threat on my life, Ali if it's true, if it never existed I … all these years, all this fear, if it wasn't even real I …"

Alistair shook his head in panic. "He would never be part of that. He loves you. It was just the Archdemon …"

"I don't know what is going on." Rathnal stated in his Commander's voice as he approached them. "But all of our nerves are frayed and fighting amongst ourselves won't help!"

"It's over." Jayden stated horrified that he couldn't seem to keep anything to himself these days, striding away, Airyl bounding after him.

Rathnal glanced at Alistair. "You need to give him some space."

"I just …"

"He needs time and if you ever want him and the King to make peace you need to give it to him. He is hurting and despite his denials he was traumatised by what the Archdemon put him through. He will come around, he loves Cailan."

"I don't think he does anymore."

"Of course he does, why do you think this is hurting him so much?"

xXx

Moving to Theron, Jayden tried to bury his agitation. "How are you feeling about this?"

"I admit I am nervous, but I should be able to find my way blindfolded through this forest if I needed to, which is just as well under the circumstances, but I see a little clearer each day, things are still blurry, but I'm getting there. Besides we only need to find one clan, they will put out the word to the others."

"Morrigan, Leliana and Sten will be coming with you."

"You will need them with you!"

"They will have your back."

"Will …"

"No arguments. Hopefully there won't be any trouble, but everything has led to trouble."

Theron swallowed the lump swelling in his throat and clasped Jayden's arm. "Be safe."

"You too."

Jayden smiled as Ayanna approached them and handed her one of the runestones. "This way we can stay in contact."

"Thank you. Look I know this is Rathnal's home and he has family there, but if things get bad in Gwaren you need to get him out of there. We need him. I have told Ali the same."

"If things get that bad, we will all evacuate, I promise."

xXx

Morrigan glanced in the direction of Gwaren and then to Jayden. She remained outwardly calm, but her heart was pounding.

"Don't look so worried." Jayden stated gently as he approached her.

"T'is not worry, simply caution." She wanted to tell him to be careful, but that would be foolish. "Survive."

"I certainly intend to. Good luck with the Dalish. Be Theron's eyes when he needs it, you can go as a raven or wolf where others cannot."

"I shall offer aid if required."

"We will see each other again soon."

Morrigan simply nodded, not trusting herself to speak.

xXx

Watching the others depart Rathnal signalled for his own group to move out heading for the nearest watchtower. The only Warden accompanying him was Alistair, not only because he had already promised him the opportunity to see his family, but if things got bad in Gwaren he couldn't risk more of his Warden's being there. He suspected that was why Jayden had made sure Morrigan, Leliana and Sten stayed with Theron. He had been surprised that Zevran had apparently chosen to remain with his group. The assassin had said he was still struggling with his injuries and would fare better in Gwaren despite the coming Darkspawn than wandering around a forest. He had the sneaking suspicion that Rinna had sent Zevran to keep an eye on him. He wasn't sure whether to be grateful or angry. Reece, Dylan and Ser Matthew were also accompanying them. They were deep in discussion with Jayden again as they had been for most of the journey through the gateway on defences. The dark sky was edging too close to Gwaren for his liking and he knew that even if somehow, they could defend Gwaren from the coming force, once the sky was blocked by those unnatural clouds, the Darkspawn would have the greater advantage. Shuddering at the thought he quickened his pace, the others hurrying after him. As they approached the watchtower, guards were already waiting for them. They took the news of a Darkspawn force on their way in their stride, sending up a flare to inform the guards at the wall they were on their way. Rathnal noted their subtle looks at Jayden and Airyl and prayed he wouldn't make too much fuss about any attention given to him about being Andraste's Champion and at least they gave no objection to the wolf in their company which was a relief. He moved to Jayden's side as they approached the main gates seeing Captain Marcus himself was present. "Maybe you should take the lead given you are Andraste's Champion."

"You are Warden Commander and this is a Darkspawn threat, he is more likely to listen to you, but I will back you up."

Quickening his step, Rathnal nodded to the captain. "Captain Marcus."

"Rathnal! Maker, it has been a while. Forgive me, that must be Warden Rathnal now."

"Warden Commander since Ostagar."

Marcus paled slightly. "We heard rumours of course that Warden Commander Duncan had not survived, but … forgive me." He glanced over at the group. "I assume your purpose here is more than simply family reunion."

"We have come to give you warning, part of the Horde is heading to Gwaren, they will likely reach us within the week."

"We have been attacked several times already, their forces seem to increase with each assault, though so far no Darkspawn have breached the walls."

"Forgive me Captain, but I'll wager you haven't faced this number. There appears to be in excess of a thousand Darkspawn heading here."

"Maker's breath!"

At Rathnal's glance Jayden joined them. "I am Captain William of the Denerim Guard. What percentage of the guards and Night Elves have received the preventative?" He frowned at the shocked look on Marcus's face. "We are here to help Captain Marcus, but we need to know what we are working with."

Marcus shook his head thinking quickly, knowing Jayden was alive and seeing him were two different things. "I … we did not expect to see Holy Andraste's Champion."

"I'm just a soldier and I would prefer it in fact if that title was not used."

"I … of course, but given the wolf at your side if you hoped to keep it secret, I am afraid you will be disappointed. Before we discuss anything however, everyone must be checked for the blight sickness before being allowed to enter. You will forgive our caution. These are dire times."

"Of course, we have nothing to hide." Jayden entered the small hut that had been erected outside of the gates for that purpose first and submitted to the check, not daring to meet Sarin's gaze in case the elderly healer recognised him, flushing slightly as the young woman at his side carried out the inspection. When she introduced herself as Emily, he realised she was Serin's granddaughter, closer to Anora's age than his own so he had only spoken to her a few times as a child. She had clearly followed in her grandfather's footsteps having his same gentle, but no nonsense manner. When he had been cleared, he left the hut moving over to Captain Marcus as Rathnal went next. "So, back to the numbers given the preventative."

"I believe we should speak in private, there was an incident."

Frowning Jayden nodded. "As you wish."

Once they were all cleared to enter, Marcus gestured for them to follow him, signalling to Guardsman Thomas who hurried to his side. "I would speak with Captain William, take the rest of his group to the Wyvern's Rest where they can find suitable lodgings. It has the closest proximity to the barracks to enable swift messaging. I suggest we meet in two hours to discuss the Darkspawn threat. You are of course free to move around Gwaren and I believe Warden Commander your grandfather would be happy to see you." He smiled slightly at Rathnal's relieved smile.

Alistair moved quickly to the captain's side. "Captain, I am looking for the Hawke family, they were taking refuge here." He felt a rush of relief that he clearly knew the name.

"Yes, they were here."

"Were?" Alistair barely concealed his panic. "Where are they now?"

"I can't say for certain, but they took a ship to Kirkwall the same day they arrived."

"Kirkwall, are you sure?" Jayden demanded.

"Yes, although I believe there was some debate on the matter. The young woman left a letter for a Warden Alistair should he come here." He glanced at Alistair. "I take it you are he?"

"Yes." Alistair whispered, feeling sick to his stomach.

"I will have the letter brought to you at the tavern."

"Thank you."

"Captain William if you would come with me."

Hiding his horror as best he could, Jayden nodded to the others and spoke quietly to Airyl deciding for the moment it would be more sensible to have her remain with the larger group, before following the captain to the barracks, taking the offered seat as Marcus closed the door of his office.

Easing into the seat, Marcus stared at the man he had only known as a boy. "It is good to have you back with us my Lord." He saw a slight shift in his posture, the only indication he was unsettled.

"Captain Marcus …"

"I would prefer us to be honest with each other my Lord, though I am well aware you will have had considerable experience at concealing the truth. If it eases your mind, I would not have known who you are if not for Gawain overhearing Night Elf Lyra in her grief at the news of your passing."

Jayden swallowed uneasily. "How many people know who I am?"

"Myself, Gawain, Lyra and her husband who she was speaking to at the time to my knowledge. I will not reveal your true identity, but neither will I pretend I do not know the truth. It is so very good to see you again my Lord."

"It is good to see you too Marcus. I just wish it was under different circumstances."

"Indeed. My Lord I … I do not understand, why are you disguised as another? We believed you to be Squiring in the Free Marches."

Sighing softly Jayden gave a quick explanation. "We can discuss this in further detail at another time, but right now we have other priorities and please don't address me as Lord. I am Captain William; you understand why it has to be that way."

"Of course, my … of course Captain William."

"Alright, how has Gwaren fared so far?"

"As I said, there had been groups attacking, but nothing we could not repel." Marcus rubbed his forehead. "They stopped attacking the walls directly and all was quiet, then a group of refugees arrived with Darkspawn hot on their heels. It was a surprise as none had reached us in some time. The guardsman manning the Tower gave us warning, but were killed or injured defending those fleeing the Darkspawn. It was a mess. There were ten refugees, four died of the blight sickness within a week, the reason we now do checks. Disturbingly they were adamant they were herded here by the Darkspawn. Three of our soldiers also contracted the blight sickness. The remaining refugees were unaffected, but they took ship to the Free Marches. Those affected were isolated. We had ten cases, only three are still alive."

"The preventive didn't work?" Jayden rubbed his forehead feeling sick to his stomach.

Marcus shifted uncomfortably. "That is why I wished to speak to you in private. Those on duty that night had not taken it. Our supplies of the preventative were … stolen."

"Stolen?"

"One of my guardsmen, a nephew of Lord Tyran, told his uncle about the preventative. The fool man stole the lot and handed it over. Lord Tyran then distributed it to the nobility."

Jayden's eyes darkened slightly. "Even if every family member of the nobility in Gwaren took the preventative there should have been some left!"

Marcus rubbed his neck. "The batch assigned for the night elves was untouched. Lord Tryan did not wish the nobility contaminated by it."

"All of the preventative is the same, it is not race specific!" Jayden snarled. "So why haven't the Night Elves taken it?"

Sighing Marcus ran his fingers through his hair. "It was destroyed. Lord Tyran stated that elves are not people."

Jayden felt the anger within him explode. "Who in the Void gave him the right to do that! He just destroyed it?"

"That is not all. He and the majority of the nobility left the country shortly afterwards. I am afraid that is my fault, I told them since they had taken the preventative, they could man the walls."

"I would have done the same and I believe my dad would have as well."

"Indeed. There is some positive news, two noble families remained and they handed in the preventative giving me eight doses. I gave doses to Serin and his granddaughter Emily who are our healers, as well as Mother Sarah who insisted on personally helping them with those infected. The remaining doses were given to the guardsman on the watchtowers, they drew straws. Guardsman Colin who stole the vials had taken one of the stolen doses. He is on permanent duty beyond the wall as a consequence."

"Alright, well we better rectify this situation as best as we can. I have some of the preventative with me and I can make more, but we don't have much time. However, I will start with those affected by the Blight sickness. Where are they?"

"You are not going near them; I will not have you in danger."

"I have been in danger for a long time and I have taken the preventative, trust me I am safe from the blight sickness. Now I need to see them, I have a cure."

Marcus's eyes widened. "Truly?"

"Well, it has worked on others so I see no reason why it won't work here. Better make sure Serin and Emily are at the meeting to discuss the threat."

"Of course, I am assuming you will want the Commander of the Night Elves present."

"You assume correctly. Is Master Govak still in Gwaren?"

"Indeed, he is." Marcus rubbed his forehead. "I'm assuming you want him at the meeting for his more explosive talents."

Jayden nodded. "Definitely. Also, Rumold and Tolband, I assume both golems are still serving as guards."

"They are. I will arrange it."

They both turned as the door burst open a flushed Gawain hurrying inside and shutting the door. Jayden couldn't help returning his grin, the guard quickly apologising for his entrance to his Captain before turning back to Jayden. "It's good to see you again Gawain."

"And you, my Lord." Gawain gasped in surprise as Jayden clasped his arm and hugged him.

"It really is good to see you, I'm glad you weren't at Ostagar, but we could have used your skills."

"I should have been there; my place should always have been at your side."

"Well fate had different plans, but I am glad you are here now." They turned as Marcus cleared his throat.

"Well Gawain, given the circumstances it seems only reasonable to assign you to … Captain William. A liaison we can call it. You will ensure his safety at all times."

"Yes Captain."

Jayden leaned against the desk; his eyebrow raised. "I'm assuming I don't get a say in this."

"No." Captain Marcus stated firmly. "We were sworn to protect you from your birth, that has not changed."

"Apart from that I'm not who I was and I am a soldier in my own right."

Marcus sighed softly. "You are not going to make this easy are you."

Seeing the concern in their eyes Jayden relented. "Sorry I just … I'm not used to this anymore."

"Well get used to it." Gawain mumbled under his breath, flushing slightly at Jayden's amused look.

"Well, if that is settled, I have a meeting to arrange. Gawain, accompany Captain William to those suffering with the blight sickness." He raised his hand to what he assumed was going to be a tirade on safety from him. "The captain has taken the preventative and he has a cure. You have your orders."

Gawain stared at Jayden in something akin to awe before shaking his head and smiling slightly. "Yes Captain."

Jayden turned to Marcus. "I also need access to the Calling Crystal to contact my dad and sister."

"Of course, I suggest you wait until after the meeting to contact them, the General will likely have questions related to our next course of action." He handed Jayden a key and pointed to the top drawer of his desk. "Gawain will remain outside the office to ensure no-one comes near."

"Thank you, Captain, I appreciate it."

"If you would follow me my Lord." Gawain stated heading for the door.

"Gawain, I am not a Lord."

Flushing Gawain turned back to him. "Right. So, is it Captain or Champion?"

"Just call me Will."

"He most certainly will not!" Marcus spluttered. "You will address him as Captain."

Shaking his head Jayden moved to the door. "Come on, you can bet the Darkspawn won't be wasting time."

xXx

Having never been in the Wyvern's Rest, Rathnal had been impressed at how well maintained and comfortable it was, certainly one of the best of the few taverns he had stayed in. They had been allocated three rooms. He and Alistair would be sharing. Enchanters Dylan and Reece and Ser Matthew would be sharing the second, leaving Jayden, Airyl and Zevran sharing the third. Leaving the others to get settled and knowing there was not much time before he would have to attend the emergency meeting, he had headed quickly through Gwaren towards the Alienage. Now here he hesitated near the entrance, almost afraid to enter, fearful that his grandfather would see the awful person he believed he was becoming. Taking a deep breath, he forced himself to move, turning sharply as he heard his name shouted, Lyra hugging him moments later.

"Rath! What are you doing here? No, never mind. I'm so glad you're alive."

"Me too. No offence Lyra but you look, well ..."

"Haggard?"

Rathnal flushed, running his fingers through his hair. "I wouldn't have put it quite like that."

"You would have been right to. My husband Gilon, he …" Lyra dissolved into tears. "He has the blight sickness."

Rathnal held her gently. "It's going to be alright Lyra."

"How could it possibly be alright? He is dying and they won't let me near him!"

"We have a cure."

Lyra's eyes widened. "A cure?"

"Jay did it." He whispered. "Wilds Flowers infused with lyrium, the ones he planted in the caves near Orzammar. It was amazing."

"You've seen him then?"

"He's here with me."

"Here." She paled slightly. "Is it true about him seeing Andraste's spirit and being healed?"

Nodding Rathnal sighed. "It's true, but he is not happy about being named her Champion, likely because the Queen and Chantry gave him no choice."

"I … finding out he was alive was a shock. I … I'm not sure I'm ready to face him."

"He will be glad to see you Lyra, I'm sure. Things are different between you now. You're married and well he and Lady Delilah are getting close." He raised an eyebrow at the momentary look of jealousy that crossed her face. "Let me guess, you didn't want him anymore, but you don't want him with anyone else, you wanted him pining after you for the rest of his life."

Flushing Lyra turned away. "Of course not."

"Lyra, I know how much you loved him, but you need to understand it tore him apart when you got married."

"It wasn't easy for me either."

Rathnal sighed, not wanting to fight, giving her a gentle hug. "It really is good to see you again Lyra."

"You too Rath, I … I should go."

"I will see you soon."

"Rathnal!"

Turning he grinned seeing his grandfather, hurrying over and hugging him tightly.

"I feared the worst."

"I'm here and I have so much to tell you, can we go inside?"

"Of course, come in my boy."

Rathnal stepped into his childhood home smelling spices and herbs and felt tears stream down his face, collapsing against his grandfather who embraced him.

"Rathnal?"

"It's a nightmare grandpa." Rathnal shuddered.

"Sit down and tell me."

Once Rathnal started he couldn't stop, spilling out everything that had happened until he was hoarse. He looked to his grandfather as he squeezed his hand.

"I am so very proud of you."

"How can you be proud of me? I keep making such a mess of things. I shouldn't be Commander."

"But you are and you are doing the best you can in a horrific situation. From what you said you have the loyalty of your Wardens so you cannot be such a bad Commander."

Rathnal hung his head. "They deserve better."

"Have faith in yourself, they clearly do."

xXx

Jayden had accompanied Gawain to the building which turned out to be the same one the healers used when attempting to help his mother. Two guards were on duty outside at all times to keep people from entering and he supposed those inside from leaving. He was taken through to a room at the back seeing Mother Sarah moving between the three men attempting to soothe them, seeing two elves and one human on pallets. "Who are they?"

"Guardsman Philip and Night Elves Enrin and Gilon."

Jayden turned to him sharply. "Lyra's husband?"

"Yes. Keeping her away for her own safety has been difficult. Mother Sarah." Gawain nodded as she moved over to them in alarm. "This is … Captain William."

Jayden winced as her eyes widened, cutting off anything she might have said about him being Andraste's Champion by handing her two of the vials and quickly explaining what they were.

"Thank you." She whispered, gripping Jayden's wrist, her hand trembling.

Moving over to Gilon, Jayden noted the veins of grey across his hands and throat. He took the stopper from the vial. "I need you to drink this."

"So, it is finally over, something to ease our passing." A tear slipped down Gilon's cheek. "I wish I could have seen my wife one last time."

"Well, you will if you drink this, it's a cure."

Gilon stared at him startled. "There is no cure."

"This is a cure and it works, now unless you wish your wife to be a widow, I suggest you take it."

Hesitating, Gilon's eyes suddenly widened as he recognised him from the poster. "I … you are the one they are calling Champion."

Jayden met his gaze, keeping his voice low. "You know exactly who I am Gilon, just as I know who you are."

"I … why would you give me this?"

"Because without it you will die." Jayden sighed at the words unspoken in Gilon's expression. "Because I have a duty to protect the people of Gwaren, because you are a Night Elf of Gwaren, because you are Lyra's husband and she loves you. Pick whichever one you need; they are all true."

"You could just let me die."

"And what kind of man would that make me? Lyra and I are long over, I have no desire to stir up the past, only protect our present and ensure we all have a future. I need your help with that. Darkspawn are coming and I need your help to defend Gwaren, to defend our home. I believe that like me, you are fated to live longer than the Darkspawn would like."

Gilon stared at him and nodded, taking the vial in trembling hands and drinking its contents. "Thank you." He whispered.

"The cure is not gentle, let it do its work and then rest, we will have need of you when the Darkspawn reach us." Heading outside Jayden took a deep breath, it had hurt more than he had expected meeting Lyra's husband, but he realised more because Gilon had expected him to let him die. He glanced at Gawain who was watching him. "I need a place for us to work to make the preventative."

"I will see to it."

"Good. We better get moving or we will be late for the meeting, then I need to contact Denerim." There was so much to do and he had no idea how much time they had before the Darkspawn reached them. The horde wouldn't sleep, wouldn't rest and Jayden feared they had far less time than they hoped.

xXx

Author Note: Thank you for reading, I appreciate it.