Silence had filled the Great Hall as Rendon's body was removed, more from the continuing shock, than any respect. Aedan moved to his brother, keeping his voice low. "What happens now?" He frowned slightly as Eamon strode forward feeling a rush of anxiety.

"Black Haller Maddock, it is clear that the charges brought against Rendon Howe were true and he deserved severe punishment, but we cannot turn a blind eye to the fact we were all just witnesses to his murder!"

"Uncle!" Cailan hissed. "Do not do this." He glanced at Jayden, whose fists were clenched tight enough to draw blood in the effort to restrain himself.

Running his fingers through his hair in agitation, Arl Bryland sighed deeply. "It is true, for his treachery Rendon deserved death, but we cannot condemn one man for murder and not another. Loghain, in your place I might have done the same, but Rendon should have faced judgement by our law, just as you now must, or they mean nothing and our country will once more fall to the chaos of the old days."

"That bastard had my wife killed." Bann Loren snarled. "Loghain did the right thing, I only wish I had got to him first."

"Rendon had my son tortured." Bann Sighard worried at his lip. "I wanted him to pay, to suffer as he made others suffer, but he had the Queen herself murdered, for that alone he would have faced execution. Perhaps in this case …"

"But that judgement had not yet been proclaimed." Arl Wulff muttered. "As far as I am concerned Rendon was a madman and because of his actions our country is at war with itself and we face an enemy I am not sure how we defeat, but the law states murder is punishable by death."

"It is hardly the same!" Bann Ceorlic snapped. "Rendon's actions were premeditated, Loghain was pushed to the edge with the shock of betrayal."

"The sad truth." Eamon stated. "Is that we may as well have no laws if we bend them to suit ourselves. We came here seeking justice, but Loghain murdered a man in front of us all. While we can all agree he was sorely provoked, his actions cannot simply be swept aside. As much as it pains me to say, Loghain is no different to Rendon in the eyes of the law."

"Well at least you finally get rid of me." Loghain muttered, glancing at Cauthrien who had moved to his side, as ready as his son was to protect him, he had no doubt. "You've been desperate for such an excuse for years."

"This is not personal." Eamon stated firmly.

"Of course it is." Loghain growled. "All of this is personal; how could it not be."

Alfstanna gazed at Loghain and his son who stood defensively beside him; her heart breaking for them both. Her own brother's treatment at Rendon and Vaughan's hands was still foremost in her mind, knowing how close she had come to wanting to take Rendon's life herself. "Gentlemen, perhaps there is a way to allow Loghain to retain his life. Losing the General at such a time would be madness, his knowledge of strategy and experience of battle cannot be lost."

"Alfstanna, we cannot bend the law to suit ourselves, not even in our current situation." Eamon snapped.

"What are you suggesting, Alfstanna?" Cailan demanded ignoring his uncle, desperate for a way out.

"The Warden Commander is present is he not and I believe the Wardens take all, no matter their crimes. Given the task ahead of this Order and that those who join them leave behind their previous lives, would this not be a more fitting outcome? The Wardens gain valuable strategic knowledge and experience, something that given the Orders losses at Ostagar I believe they would certainly benefit from and Loghain will no longer hold title or lands." Silence fell as Alfstanna turned to Rathnal. "What say you, Warden Commander? If it is agreed, would you accept Loghain into your ranks?"

Swallowing uneasily feeling the focus of the entire Landsmeet on him, Rathnal glanced at Loghain. He could die in the Joining, but at least this gave him a chance for survival, even if it was for a short time given what they faced. The potential alternative of immediate execution was not an option he could accept for Jayden's sake and he had to admit Loghain's strategic knowledge and experience would be a Maker send. "I would accept him into the Order."

"I would rather die here and now than become a Warden." Loghain growled, shaking his head. "I am ready to die."

Jayden turned to his father, pain and anger in his eyes. "I did not endure everything they put me through, so you could give up. We need you; I need you. You don't get to use Anora dying as an excuse to die yourself! We have a country to save and you are damn well going to help us do it!"

Staring at his son in shock, Loghain felt shame and guilt tear into him anew. "Jayden I …"

"We have a duty to protect Ferelden and our people. You have always done your duty no matter the personal cost. So, you will go with the Wardens, you will join the order and you will follow Commander Rathnal, is that understood?" Jayden turned and looked every noble including the King and Grand Cleric in the eye daring them to protest, not even Eamon spoke.

For a moment Loghain stared at his son, seeing not the boy he ached for, but the young man and leader he had known his son would become.

Jayden moved a step closer to his father. "I know you distrust the Wardens. I know the last thing you want to do is join them, but the alternative is death. Right now, that might seem the best option, but despite everything we still have each other, so don't you dare make me face the Darkspawn without you!"

"You're right, I left you once to face the horde, I won't do that again." He gently gripped his shoulder. "I hope one day you can forgive me."

"There is nothing to forgive."

"I wish that were true."

Meeting Alfstanna's meaningful gaze, Rathnal realised what he had to do and cleared his throat. "Loghain Mac Tir, I conscript you into the Wardens. Warden Constable Ayanna, please take him to our base."

"Of course, Warden Commander." Ayanna moved to Loghain's side. "Please come with me." She hesitated as Jayden caught her arm.

"Why did Morrigan leave?"

"I am not sure; she seemed upset by something. To be honest she was not making much sense."

Frowning in concern Jayden met his father's gaze. "I will see you soon."

Reluctantly Loghain nodded to his son and Cauthrien before he left the Great Hall, feeling the weight of his actions and the stares of those at the Landsmeet, relieved to step outside in the fresh air. He hesitated and glanced at Ayanna before shaking his head in disbelief at the turn of events. "Lead on, Warden."

Frustrated, angry and heart sore, Cauthrien took her place by Jayden's right-hand side, inwardly raging at Eamon, wanting to tear the surprisingly smug look from his face.

Watching his father leave, Jayden took a calming breath despite wanting to rip out Eamon's throat and shut him up once and for all. If anyone in the Great Hall was like Rendon, it was the Arl of Redcliffe with his scheming. He turned to the Landsmeet, clearing his throat to gain their attention. "Given your stance on consequences, I assume Arl Vaughan will face some for his part in the atrocities carried out against the elven people of this city, not to mention the torture of some of Ferelden's other citizens."

Vaughan stared at him in disgust. "What is your bloody obsession with the damn elves?"

"I could ask you the same." Jayden growled.

"They are vermin, they are nothing. Maker, you are the son of a Teyrn, why would you seek to protect them? What are they to you?"

"They are Ferelden's!"

Cailan's gaze hardened. "Vaughan Kendells, you will be taken to Fort Drakon and incarcerated until after the blight when your sentence will be decided. Guards, remove him immediately."

"You cannot do this to me!" Vaughan screamed as he struggled against the soldiers forcing him from the Hall. "I am the Arl of Denerim!"

"Not anymore." Cailan moved to the centre of the room, his heart pounding fiercely. "Black Haller Maddock, my Lords and Lady's, you heard from Rendon Howe's own lips his treachery. I declare now that the Cousland's are innocent of the charges Rendon Howe brought against them and that Bryce and Eleanor's deaths were unlawful. Do you accept that?"

Fergus, Aedan and Ellowyn felt a rush of relief at the agreement. Ellowyn glanced at Edward as his hand discreetly brushed hers. Smiling, tears of relief slipping down her cheeks, she startled them both as she snuggled against his chest.

Holding her gently, Edward sighed softly when she finally moved back, her cheeks flushed. "Your parents would be proud of all of you."

"It will never bring them back, but it is better than the alternative of them being believed to be traitors, I could not have borne that."

Meeting the gaze of each noble, Cailan felt the tension in his body ease a fraction. "And I assume there are no objections to officially bestowing the title of Teyrn onto Fergus Cousland?" He glanced at Fergus when again there was only agreement. "It has been a long road my friend, you will make your family and your country proud as Teyrn I think."

"Thank you, your Majesty."

Jayden cleared his throat. "Black Haller Maddock, I would ask that Erlina be officially pardoned."

Frowning Eamon shook his head, interrupting as Maddock moved to speak. "It was by her hand that our Queen was murdered."

"She was being controlled by blood magic. She would have given her life to defend Anora had it been her choice."

"This is a most unusual situation." Maddock stated. "Your Majesty, is there anything you wish to say?"

"I have no wish to have Erlina's service to the Queen dishonoured." Cailan stated firmly. "I will ensure the truth is known and I believe a pardon is warranted."

"Very well, your Majesty."

Glancing around him, Cailan met the gazes of the gathered nobility. "Now more than ever our country must be united, the horde is advancing to Denerim, but with the Wardens and the allies they have secured we will drive back the Darkspawn from our lands. We have faced treachery and death, but now is the time to set aside any differences."

Rubbing his chin thoughtfully Bann Eddlebreck gave the King a concerned look. "We have no General, your Majesty. Someone must be appointed to lead the army."

Glancing at Jayden, Calian saw that same determination he had seen in him even as a child etched on his face and now more than ever, he needed to show he was trusted. "Holy Andraste's Champion has never wavered from protecting this country and our people, striving to prepare us for this battle. Even at great cost to himself and under torture he has always fought for us, to bring Howe to justice so our country can be united once more. I can think of no other more appropriate, to lead us into battle."

Jayden felt his heart sink, the lives of his company were responsibility enough, now he might be expected to lead the army, though he felt sure there would be those who would stand against such a decision, he could already see Eamon looked fit to explode.

Staring at his nephew in horror, Eamon made a sputtering noise. "Cailan, you cannot allow Jayden to have control of the army. Not only is he too young and inexperienced, but he was just tortured physically and with blood magic, he is unfit."

"He …" Cailan hesitated seeing Jayden move towards them.

"My mind is my own Arl Eamon and while I am in need of healing that will not interfere with my duties or my ability to prepare this city for the approaching horde!"

"I am sorry Jayden, but I am not as optimistic as you. You will need intensive healing and a great deal of time to recover."

"I don't think the horde will be so accommodating."

Sighing, Eamon shook his head. "Jayden, I have no doubt you are your father's son, he will have drilled you in military strategy before you could talk, I would imagine, but the fact remains you are young and the only real battle you have fought in was Ostagar and forgive me, but your input there fell short." He glanced around uneasily at the angry mutterings of the soldiers present.

"Enough uncle!" Cailan growled. "You were not there! And all of the strategies we used were agreed by veterans, the General and myself. We lost at Ostagar because a main part of our forces was fighting itself and you were incapacitated."

"Cailan, I understand why you are giving him your support, you were sceptical of this glimpse of the future as anyone would have been, but do not let your guilt guide you in this. He is barely out of childhood and is in no way ready or fit to command such a campaign." He turned back to Jayden startled by the thoughtful look on his face, having expected anger.

"You're right." Jayden stated softly. "I am young, though Maker knows I don't feel it. My father did teach me about strategy, about flexibility in battle and I learned the hard way the true cost of battle. I did the best I could to get the army ready for a battle no-one believed me was coming and it wasn't enough. This time you all know what is coming. This time we have the support of the Dwarven Empire and the Dalish. This time Ferelden will be truly united." He met Eamon's neutral gaze. "I don't care if I am the one giving the orders to the army, or taking them. I will step aside and you can appoint another to lead, but do not dismiss me as unfit and do not discount what knowledge I can bring to this because all you see is a young, inexperienced soldier. I have travelled the length and breadth of Ferelden; I worked for years to prepare the army for the Blight. I have faced the monsters that besiege us and the Archdemon itself." He held Eamon's gaze, his heart pounding. "All I have wanted to do since seeing that glimpse is make sure we have a fighting chance against the Darkspawn. I ask you to set aside your personal prejudices against my family and let me do my job."

"This has nothing to do with …"

"Yes, it does. When you look at me you see my father, a man who held sway with the King that you felt he had no right to because he was a commoner. Their bond was forged in blood, battle and duty and you fear a similar bond between myself and Cailan. I may be young, but I was not blind to the many times you sought to undermine my father with King Maric. Or perhaps you see my sister in me, the woman you actively worked against. You wanted Cailan to set Anora aside and marry the Empress. I understand why. You want a lasting peace and you felt that could be best achieved through that marriage and my sister had yet to provide Cailan with an heir. To that end, you sought to destroy their marriage at every opportunity."

"I did not!"

"Please don't deny it, Arl Eamon. I think we have all had enough lies."

Eamon shook his head. "Your sister deliberately prevented conception, she betrayed Cailan and Ferelden she was not fit to be Queen." He hesitated realising too late his words, glancing around the hall feeling Cailan's rage and seeing the deep shock on the faces of those assembled, but there was no such shock on Jayden's face. "It seems you knew that."

Jayden nodded. "I didn't know about the precautions she took until later, but I knew she did not want a child. I also know why."

"Please enlighten us." Eamon muttered scowling fiercely.

"She was terrified. Terrified that her child would be taken from her as I had been taken. That her child would be used to make her acquiesce to Orlesian demands. That her child would be harmed or Maker forbid killed all because of the damn Game, but you didn't take the time to find out her motives. You didn't bother to find out that she was afraid and then support her to put measures in place that would help her. You just saw an opportunity to get rid of her and have Cailan marry the Empress and so you threatened her." Jayden's gaze hardened. "All my family has ever done is work towards protecting Ferelden and both you and Rendon, though you had differing motivations, sought to bring harm to us and it worked. Anora is dead, my father has been removed as General and will be a Warden, an Order he has always distrusted, but that isn't enough, despite everything I have done to try and protect our people you stand there deciding I am unfit. I am not as I was, how could I be, but I am a soldier and nothing that happened in that dungeon has made me any less capable of that. Now I am going to make sure we are ready for the horde whether I am leading the army or not. I suggest you get ready because the Darkspawn don't give a damn about internal politics, all they care about is killing us all."

"How dare you!"

"That is enough brother. I think you have done enough damage."

Eamon turned to Teagan startled. "You cannot imagine this boy is fit to lead us into battle."

"In fact, I do. After all he has done, brother, after all he has achieved, how can you doubt it?"

"He is clearly not in his right mind."

"On what basis do you declare that! Despite all he has endured, Jayden has not said anything that suggests he is unfit. Holy Andraste chose him brother, She chose him! Who are we to stand in the way of that!"

Eamon stared at him before shaking his head. "The boy is a moment from shattering, how can we take the risk of that happening on the battlefield?"

Jayden's fists clenched, furious that Eamon was acting as though he was no longer there, glancing at Cauthrien as her hand rested on his wrist in a gentle gesture of restraint.

Moving to his brother, Teagan gripped his shoulder. "Eamon, we face a force that is bigger and more destructive than the Orlesian's, we must be united if we are to have any chance of defeating it. I do not know what you are seeing in that young man, but what I see is someone who despite the odds, despite every obstacle put in his way, including those closest to him disbelieving his warnings, has worked tirelessly to make us ready for an enemy we were content to ignore. He has suffered there can be no doubt of that, but I don't see a broken man, I see Holy Andraste's Champion and it will be my honour to stand with him in battle. He needs us Eamon don't you see that?"

"This is too much responsibility for him." Eamon protested.

"Then instead of making it harder for him, I suggest we support him. The people believe in him Eamon and I know that scares you, but I think it is time you stopped seeing his father in him and the antagonism between you and see him for the man he is. Please brother, put aside whatever you have against the Mac Tir's and for Maker's sake help him!"

"I believe this is a mistake, but I will accept the decision of the Landsmeet."

Swallowing uneasily Jayden let out a calming breath, slowly turning and looking at the soldiers and nobility. "Many things have been revealed about me today and whatever you think about me personally, I hope you can accept that all I have spent these last years doing, is everything I could to prepare us for the fight I knew was coming. A blight is raging in our country. The army of Darkspawn will come for us. That is what we need to concentrate on now. I only ask that you allow me to continue to work towards defeating our enemy. I will accept whatever capacity you deem to be appropriate."

Walking up the steps to the throne, Cailan gained everyone's attention. "My suggestion remains the same. I believe our country will rally at the Champions call. What say you?"

Alfstanna smiled warmly. "I say yes."

The remaining nobles were quick to agree apart from Eamon who hesitated before he too reluctantly nodded, bowing to pressure from the present nobles and his nephew.

Swallowing against the lump in his throat Jayden felt tears in his eyes as every soldier in the room brought arm to chest in salute, before he met Cailan's gaze.

"Will you stand by my side in this, brother?"

"Against the horde and whatever enemy Ferelden may face." Jayden glanced around the Great Hall. "We have got to stop fighting amongst ourselves! The enemy we need to focus on now is the Darkspawn. We lost at Ostagar because we were not united, because there were those who thought more of their own power and status than the well-being of their people and their country! That stops now! We cannot afford to fail again, or there will be nothing left of our people, or our country. None of your power, status or coin will matter then. Noble or commoner, human, elf, dwarf or Qunari, we all have the same enemy. The Darkspawn don't care about anything other than destroying every last one of us. They are destroying our country piece by piece while we are distracted by the treachery and power plays of our own people. Our King is returned to us, the traitor is dead, now we must look to the Darkspawn and make them pay for every life taken, every inch of Ferelden they have corrupted with the Blight. We must stand united now, or everything we love, everything we hold dear will be destroyed!"

"Well said Champion." Arl Wulff stated, turning his attention to Delilah and Thomas scowling fiercely. "But there is still another matter that must be settled. While Rendon is dead his children live. Given the situation I believe no Howe should hold title or lands. There must be consequences to dissuade any who would even think of following in Rendon's footsteps."

"I share Wulff's concerns." Bann Alfstanna stated anxiously. "While there is no doubt, they appear to have helped you Fergus, can we truly trust them?"

"This is not the first time the Howe family has proven itself traitorous. Perhaps it is in the blood." Ceorlic muttered.

"What are you suggesting?" Cailan demanded.

Glancing around, Ceorlic sighed deeply. "There has been enough blood shed in this matter, but perhaps it is time for the Howe's to leave Ferelden, permanently."

"You are suggesting exile?"

"It is a better option than death, your Majesty."

Staring at him in astonishment Fergus shook his head. "Thomas and Delilah are not their father; they were not involved in his schemes. They are not traitors!"

"Surely you of all people would appreciate their exile." Cerlic stated in confusion. "After everything their father did to you and your family."

"Rendon Howe committed vile acts and he paid for it with his life, let that be an end to it."

Frowning deeply, Wulff rubbed his neck attempting to ease the tension. "Forgive me Fergus, but I doubt there are many, if any, who would stand with a Howe in the battle to come."

"I would." Fergus stated.

Moving to Thomas's side, Jayden glanced around the room. "As would I."

Startled, Alfstanna glanced around uneasily. "Jayden, can you of all people truly trust them? I understand why you might feel you must advocate on their behalf. We all heard Rendon say you were betrothed to his daughter, but I doubt anyone will expect you to honour that."

"This has nothing to do with the betrothal. The simple fact is that both Thomas and Delilah have been working against their father, not with him. Thomas risked his life to save mine while we were defending Lothering from the Darkspawn. He risked his life again and almost died while helping free Highever from his father's men. Thomas has proven his loyalty to Ferelden and it would be my honour to stand with him in battle."

Thomas felt the shift in the room, such words from Holy Andraste's Champion having even more weight than he had expected.

Jayden turned when he felt a hand on his arm, meeting Lady Julianna's compassionate gaze.

"My family leaving Ferelden is for the best Lord Jayden." She shook her head. "I must have seemed a petty old woman to you at times, I hoped to help bring you closer to the Maker. Yet all the time your destiny was to lead you to most Holy Andraste. I know my past behaviour may make you less inclined to listen to me, but I beg that you do. My grandchildren will not be trusted in Ferelden because of their family name, that is a certainty and I fear there will be those who will seek retribution, for both the Cousland's and your family, not to mention the disaster at Ostagar. We have family in the Free Marches and I have coin, we will not be destitute."

"Thomas and Delilah should not have to bear the weight of their father's sins." Jayden glanced around the Landsmeet. "They did all they could to put right their father's wrongs, yet you intend to punish them regardless. The consequences for what Rendon did is his death, no matter how it happened. I ask you not to make his children suffer for his heinous acts."

Shaking slightly, Thomas stepped forward patting his sister's hand as she attempted to grip his arm and hold him back. "Let me fight, let me help protect Ferelden and if I live you can decide what happens to us then. My father abandoned the fight at Ostagar, I beg you, don't make me abandon Ferelden in its darkest hour when every sword arm is needed."

Wulff shook his head. "Perhaps you are not your father, but I still believe that further consequences are necessary to prevent anyone attempting this again. However, there is no denying we need every able fighter and so if the Landsmeet is in agreement, judgement on your family's status can wait until after the Darkspawn are dealt with."

The silence felt constricting, before one by one the nobles nodded in reluctant agreement.

Cailan let out a breath of relief. "Now, we have much to prepare and little time, we will face the horde as a united country and with the Champion of Andraste leading our forces we will prevail. We will convene a war meeting at midday tomorrow. That will give each of you time to prepare information on what can be contributed to the war effort and to hone our strategy. It may be wise to also discuss who shall take over as Arl of Denerim. Consider your suggestions carefully. The current Scheneshal at Vigil's Keep will remain in place to oversee things in Amaranthine until a decision regarding the Howe's has been made."

"There is one more thing, your Majesty." Knight Captain Eldon stated stepping forward, signalling to his templars. "It is clear that blood magic has been used and we must discover who of the nobility, if any, have been influenced. Your Majesty, I assume we can use rooms here."

"Of course. Whatever resources you need will be at your disposal."

As the majority of the nobility present filed out under Templar guard with some protest, Jayden turned to Delilah. "I need to talk to you. Thomas, if you would stay with us please."

Reluctant to leave Jayden, Cailan and the Cousland's moved to the far end of the room, Teagan and Eamon joining them. Kara and her people left, the soldiers moving outside of the Hall at the King's request, only Ser Cauthrien remaining. Rathnal had also taken his leave to speak with Loghain. Lady Julianna, Thelda and Warin moved away leaving Delilah and Thomas to allow them some semblance of privacy.

Jayden turned to Delilah. "I am sorry for leaving Highever without speaking to you. I …"

"I understand." Delilah stated gently. "You were angry. I am so sorry for everything my father put you through, his actions were monstrous. I actually prayed he was enthralled, but it was just his own cruelty and drive for power at work." Heart pounding, she moved to him, her hand trembling as she gently cupped his cheek fearing rejection. "I need you to know I do love you."

Gently clasping her hand, Jayden shook his head. "No, you don't."

Having turned away Thomas glanced back sharply at his words.

"Jayden, I know I have been … difficult at times." Delilah whispered, watching him anxiously. "But …"

"Delilah, you need to listen to me. You need to use Thomas's ring." He winced at her shocked expression, seeing Thomas pale.

Gently squeezing his hand Delilah shook her head. "I know you have been through something terrible, but if you believe nothing else, believe I love you."

"I believe you believe that." He carefully caught her hand as she pulled away. "I do not say this to hurt you, enough pain has passed between us. I say it because it is the truth. Ellowyn wasn't the only one they were working to enthral at Vigil's Keep. The love you think you feel for me is just another cruel lie."

"I never went near the blood mage!"

"You did, you just have no memory of it. What you feel for me isn't real, it is a twisted version of your love for Albert. Eloen used it and what physical attraction you had for me and made you believe you love me. It's why I believe we have experienced so much conflict. I think somehow deep inside you knew it wasn't true."

Delilah's face turned ashen. "No, I … I need you to trust me, I do love you. I know I have made mistakes, but ..."

Jayden held his hand out, the ring on his palm. "Even if you don't want to know, I need to. I need to know how much of my life this has infiltrated. Please Delilah, I need you to do this for me, for us both."

"De." Thomas gently caught her arm. "You can do this for him, please."

Hands trembling, Delilah took the ring, glancing to her grandmother who paled and joined them. "This cannot be a lie; I know what I feel!" She looked up at Jayden seeing only pain in his eyes. Taking a calming breath, she slipped the ring on her finger; a pained gasp leaving her lips. Collapsing to her knees she clutched her head as Eloen's work unravelled, each thread pulled revealing the truth. She felt the blood gush from her nose and gave a choked sob. "No." She whimpered. "How could father do this to me? To us? Was everything else not enough!"

Ellowyn paled, glancing at her brothers. "Sweet Maker, how could he have turned that blood mage on his own daughter." She glanced at Eamon feeling sick at the calculating expression he was quick to hide when he realised her gaze was upon him.

Wincing in pain Jayden knelt beside her gently dabbing away the blood before taking her hands. "This wasn't your doing."

"I hurt you so much. If this was a spell, why would they want me to hurt you?"

"I don't think that was part of the spell. I think you love Albert so much that Eloen couldn't erase that completely. I think that in a deep part of you, you knew what you felt for me wasn't real and you fought it." He gently wiped the tears from her cheeks. "Whatever else happened between us I will always be grateful that you were with me in the Deep Roads. I think I would have lost myself without you."

"I do not understand why Holy Andraste would not tell me, tell us of the blood magic."

"Perhaps we should not assume she knows everything; or this may have been more about their choices, the free will to illuminate the Makers light within them or diminish it. Eloen and your father both had that choice and they chose darkness."

"And what of your light?"

Bowing his head slightly Jayden sighed. "I confess I am not sure I have much light in me anymore."

Pressing her hand lightly over his heart, Delilah struggled to stop her tears. "I remember a boy who shut himself down with grief, I ask the man he has become not to do that. Do not push people away, no matter how much you might want to and know this, Eloen may have used that vile magic on me to force love between us, but it does not change all we have done and all we have experienced together. You are stubborn and infuriating, but you are also the bravest, most caring man I have ever met. Just remember when people begin to pull you in multiple directions, you are Holy Andraste's Champion and it is to Her you must answer." She leaned over her lips almost touching his ear, her voice a whisper. "At Haven after the dragon and in that cabin after Orzammar, what I felt for you then, what I wanted to happen between us, that was very real."

Feeling the heat of her flushed cheeks, Jayden met her gaze as she pulled back.

Nipping her lower lip Delilah pressed a soft kiss to his lips, feeling the gentle response, the need kept in check because neither of them could afford it to be otherwise. She pulled back slowly, her forehead resting against his, feeling a deep ache for him that she imagined would never leave. Much of what she had felt had been a lie, but not all of it. "I … I believe I should go to the Free Marches with Grandmother. I … no one will trust me once they find out about the blood magic. Not to mention how this will reflect on you."

"Delilah, there is no need …"

Leaning again to his ear, Delilah kept her voice a whisper. "You know as well as I there are people here in this very room who will use this against us if it is in their interests. It is the Game and I will not be used against you more than I have been. It is for the best if I leave Ferelden." She closed her eyes, tears falling. "I cannot … I cannot face staying, not after this. Not after everything I put you through."

"Don't leave because of me, that isn't necessary."

"I am leaving because of me."

Gently wiping away her tears Jayden pressed a soft kiss to her forehead. "I wish you happiness, wherever you are."

Easing to her feet she swallowed painfully as Jayden joined her. "I will miss you."

"Even though you find me infuriating?"

Delilah was startled by her own smile. "Indeed." Moving back, she handed the ring to her brother who was watching her anxiously, before accepting her grandmother's embrace, feeling fresh tears fall. Her father was dead, but she would never forgive him. "How could he do this?" She whispered.

Julianna held her gently. "Your father's wickedness was beyond anything even I imagined. You cannot change the past, all you can do is move beyond this and make something of your life."

"What kind of life can I possibly have now?"

Smiling Julianna dabbed away Delilah's tears with her handkerchief. "My dear, you are free of your father and his scheming, free of this evil blood mage. I suspect you can have any life you choose. Now come, let us give your brother a moment to talk to Jayden."

Gathering his courage Thomas shifted slightly, as Delilah and their grandmother moved away. "I … Jayden I … thank you for speaking for me, for putting your trust in me. Please forgive me for being silent when I should have spoken out for you."

"I understand why you didn't and I have no wish for there to be bad blood between us. I meant what I said, I want you by my side in the coming battle."

"It would be my honour."

They walked to where Julianna and Delilah were standing, Jayden startled as Julianna clasped his hands.

"You will do Ferelden proud; I have no doubt and take no notice of Eamon." She cast the Arl a scathing glance. "Fool man always felt he was more entitled than he was because his sister was Queen. You have the confidence of the King and the rest of the nobility, but perhaps more important you have the trust of the soldiers. Whatever happens, be true to yourself, you will not go far wrong if you do that." She glanced at Thelda sensing her impatience. "Now, I believe someone else wishes to speak to you."

Nipping her lip, Thelda sighed softly. "So, Lord Jayden is it."

"No Thelda, to you I will always be Will. I have missed you these past years."

"Aye, well I have missed you too." Tears slipped down her cheeks as they hugged.

"Take care Thelda, you and Warin are free of Rendon now."

"That we are." She smiled at her brother as he joined them.

Rubbing his neck, Warin cleared his throat. "My place is with Thomas. I won't leave his side."

"I wouldn't expect you to."

"May I offer you a piece of advice." He swallowed at Jayden's slight nod. "You are not yourself. I understand you did what you had to do to get through what happened to you in that dungeon, and maybe you need to stay that way with what is coming, but I beg you, once this blight is done, open yourself back up. Feel the pain, the guilt and anger and heal, because if you don't, you will end up as cold, cruel and manipulating as the man you hate most in the world right now. Take it from a man who has done many despicable things. You can justify almost anything when you don't let yourself feel. You have always had a compassionate nature; you have your mother's gift for it. That is something that will be needed in the future."

Jayden simply nodded, unable to find words.

"Come, I have a room at the Gnawed Noble Tavern, we have much to discuss." Lady Julianna stated, leading her family out.

Delilah turned back as she reached the doors meeting Jayden's gaze feeling fresh tears well, but forcing a smile, her heart aching she walked away from him.

There was a moment of silence, before Ellowyn hurried over to Jayden and wrapped her arms around his neck burying her head against his shoulder, tears slipping down her cheeks as his arms wrapped around her waist. "I am so sorry about what happened to you, to Anora. I wish I had never encouraged you to come here."

"We both know I would have come here either way, sanctioned or not. Rendon is dead, he can't hurt any of us ever again."

Glancing up, Ellowyn met his gaze. "I was so afraid we had lost you. That they had … changed you."

"I'm not sure they didn't. Not in a blood magic kind of way, but he was our family's friend, we both knew him our whole lives and he betrayed us all. I don't think any of us will ever be the same again."

"Did you mean what you said to Delilah? That all of the conflict between you was because the blood magic could not fully erase her first love?"

"You heard that?" He shook his head at her flushed cheeks. "It doesn't matter what I believe Ell, what matters is that she needed to hear that to begin to heal." He rolled his eyes at her penetrating look. "I need to believe it too." He gave a low groan, grimacing in pain.

"Forgive me, I should let you see a healer."

"That can wait. I need to see Anora … pay my respects and then find Airyl. Then apparently, I have battle plans to put into action." He felt exhaustion tug at him, but there was so much to do

"I knew you would already have it planned; I suppose Cailan knew that too." She smiled as her brothers approached, seeing Jayden's surprise when he found himself being gently hugged by the pair, doing his best to hide his pain and discomfort.

"Thank you for proving my family's innocence." Fergus stated, his voice choked. "I will never be able to repay my debt to you."

"There is no debt between us, Fergus. Besides, I will call on you enough with what is to come, I would imagine any perceived debt will be paid tenfold. I am sorry I couldn't speak sooner in the Landsmeet. I wanted to, but I couldn't let him know I wasn't enthralled."

"I understand."

"Rendon, he told me Anora … that her body … that she is still in the Chantry. Is that true?"

Cailan nodded as he joined them, unable to keep the bitterness from his tone. "Her funeral has been arranged for tomorrow apparently. Once the Landsmeet was concluded he would have no need for … for such a visual aid to his cause."

Frowning deeply, Jayden nodded, even in death Rendon had been using his family to help him get what he wanted. "I need to see her."

"Of course, I will have you escorted."

"I think I am capable of finding the Chantry by myself."

"No doubt, but you cannot expect us to leave you unprotected." He swallowed slightly at Jayden's darkening expression.

Cauthrien eased forward. "Perhaps you will allow me to accompany you."

Forcing the tension of his body to ease Jayden nodded. "Of course, Cauthrien, it is so very good to see you again."

"And you, my Lord." She raised an eyebrow at his exasperated huff.

"Can't you just call me Will?"

"Absolutely not, my Lord."

"What about if I order you to?"

Cauthrien stared at him, startled by the unexpected hint of mischief. "It would not be appropriate."

"Cauthrien, I remember you being much more fun."

"You were a child and I indulged you far too much. Perhaps seeing a healer first would be advisable."

Jayden shook his head. "Chantry first, then Airyl, then healing."

Ellowyn watched them leave a relieved smile on her face. "I guess we have not lost him after all."

"Thank the Maker he was on our side." Aedan muttered. "He had me fooled."

"He had us all fooled." Cailan stated. "But we cannot forget he was harmed and he will need our support."

"He has it." Fergus stated firmly.

"Well, if you will excuse me." Eamon stifled a yawn. "It has been quite the day. I intend to get some rest while I can."

"Uncle, wait." Cailan gripped his arm. "Whatever you think personally, I need you to publicly support Jayden. We must be united."

Nodding Eamon patted his arm before heading out. He smiled in satisfaction as he stepped outside feeling the cold breeze on his face. Being against Jayden had ensured Cailan had pushed for him to lead the army. Having Teagan endorse him so fiercely had been an unexpected bonus. If it went wrong and inevitably many things would, that was the way of war, blame would fall to Jayden and not the King and as the only one against that course, his place as advisor was all but assured. "Whatever you think of me nephew, I only ever want what is best for you and for Ferelden."