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[Maximus741000]

It's time to continue where we left off, and settle Anora's fate.

The Setting Moon and the Rising Sun

The darkened clouds still hung over Val Royeaux, but their rough hues had a filthy greyish brown about them due to the sun being out, and there were signs of dampening. Thin beams of sunlight were flickering in and out of existence through these clouds. Though it was still dismally dour, this was the closest thing Aldanon came to natural light in a long time, and he savoured it the moment he was a safe distance away from the burning warehouse that was Marjolaine's lair. Though the shock of all that occurred was still fresh in his mind, the relief was stronger than anything else. The relief of being able to breath the free, flowing fresh air. The signs of battle were all around him; seven of the knights had fallen in battle with the mercenaries, and those of the enemy who had followed them were strewn about the alleyway leading to the building. The survivors had taken camp a few hundred yards away to rest. The others rushed ahead of him to rest, but Aldanon stopped and turned to look at the burning ruin of the warehouse. The uproar of the fire was quickly joined by crackling of breaking wood, all within view of the warehouse stared at length as it crashed to the ground, and thus reduced to ashes. This was Marjolaine's tomb, the end of the darkspawn sortie and the demonic invasion, and more importantly; Argeles' pyre. Everyone looked on sombrely and in forlorn; Argeles was usually something of a hardened, unforgiving sort, but he placed his loyalty to all within his knowing; the wardens believed he had the ability to put the others before himself, they were glad that his hard shell carried a noble soul. Now another life hung in the balance. 

Aldanon rushed to Anora’s side, blood streaming from her dagger wound like a red tide, her skin was growing ever paler. He took her weakened form in her arms, trying to gently wake her up. And she did, if only just. She breathed heavily from the pain that took hold from the wound, but a smile of acceptance appeared on her face in spite of it all, he seemed content, knowing that she had lived a successful life in politics and served Ferelden to the best of her abilities, and that she had a husband who could carry the mantle of leadership.
“Dying in your arms,” she breathed wryly, but smiled, “how romantic.” Aldanon looked at her painfully.
“You’re not dying, don’t be stupid, it’s only a dagger, Wynne come here and help us!” he uttered frantically.
“I can’t; the poison in the dagger is now in her system, I could not cure it,” Wynne said resignedly, a tear forming in her eye, Aldanon stared at her pleadingly. “Even if I could, the process would cause her great pain that might kill her from shock. I'm just too exhausted and drained, I even had to call on the spirit to help her. We had to fight more of them when we ran, and the knights were dying and they needed healing too. I had to make a choice, Aldanon, and I've made it.” her voice broke, and Aldanon softened at her words but hardened again.
“We’re not giving up on her just like that, use the magic, come on!” he urged Wynne, but Anora took over.
“Then I guess you don’t know good advice when you see it, if she refuses then I’m content.” Her voice slipped into a peaceful whisper. Aldanon stared at her, aghast, was he the only one who wanted her to live?
“Heal her. Just heal her.” He urged Wynne, but received nothing; “Please, Please! Just heal her! Come on!” Aldanon compelled to her, much louder this time, his face contorted with desperation, but still – nothing.
“You don’t need me to survive to ensure Ferelden progresses in one piece.” Anora murmured softly.
“But you’ve got to, come on,” Aldanon croaked, tears forming in his eyes, “it can’t end like this. We had such plans, you and me, all we could have done. We were going to form the great Ferelden fleet, enough to rival the Antivan Armada, and the formation of Denerim’s second university. We were going to form our own branch of the Andrastian Chantry, in Ferelden.” Anora stared at him, amazed of his memory of her ambitions, blood beginning to trickle from her mouth, “You were Ferelden's true leader. I’m no king, just a soldier on the throne.” he continued to look deep into her, as if his eyes were pleading to her to hold on, he turned to his companions.
 “HEAL HER!!!” he exploded out in desperation, only realising too late what he sounded like, what he was saying and what he looked like to his companions when he yelled out. He hid his face from their eyes in shame, and from Wynne's cross, offended, scolding face that was enough to humble even the highest noble.
“Aldanon, politics don’t make a king alone,” Anora said ever so weakly, and growing weaker “you’ve shown me that it takes more than a sharp mind and quick tongue to rule, you have all the qualities of a fine king, you can give people hope, you have a heart to make the right decisions, and you showed me when it's right to dispense justice.... So, from this hour henceforth, I hereby pronounce you - Aldanon Cousland - King of Ferelden. I transfer all powers, both political and regal, unto you. I would have bowed you, my husband... my warden... my king.” with her last breath of 'king', Queen Anora Mac Tir was no more. Aldanon knelt over her cold body, his armour shaking as his hands gave way and dropped her limp head to the ground. Anora lay with the blood from the dagger wound gushing out and draining all colour from her skin. All the meanness, taciturnity, discontent and the ceaseless ambition were all gone from her face. Her deceptively fair appearance now harboured a peaceful look, one that did not reflect her nature, which was purged all of the foul qualities that people associated with her. It also seemed that after years of a harsh political life, she was finally at peace. He took his hands slowly away from Anora's deceased form and stepped backwards, still absorbing the unbelievable reality; Anora gave up her pride as she died. Behind him his friends and peers knelt on one knee before the new King of Ferelden.

'King of Ferelden'. As a boy growing up in Highever, it was  a title Aldanon merely would dream about and battle Fergus over all across the Castle. He would have never have believed it of someone told him told him that he would actually ascend to the throne of Ferelden. His role as king-consort was a favour on Alistair's behalf, as well as taking advantage of his own status as a noble, and because he knew Anora since childhood. Like Anora would remind him several times, he was only near the throne, and wielded little political power. He was excited to come close to the throne, and misunderstood Alistair's loathing to the idea. Now, he understood perfectly.
“Stop bowing before me,” Aldanon said firmly to his knights, “I'm not king, and Maker knows I shouldn't be.”
“Anora declared you king upon her deathbed, Aldanon” Ser Perth stated adamantly, yet with strong, renewed respect for Aldanon. “Therefore we will honour her last request. If you will not take the throne, then who will?”
“I don't know. Arl Alistair? I'm sure Eamon will be eager to put him on the throne.” Aldanon supposed hopefully.
“Are you mad, Aldanon?” Zevran asked incredulously, “Imagine the things you could do as the country's king. I thought this was something you always wanted. Honestly, there's no pleasing you Fereldans.”
“I'm already thinking about them right now.” Aldanon said with a heavily ironic voice. “And yes I did want to be king. But then six months at Anora's side completely changed all that, I was content to remain where I was.”
“Aldanon, perhaps we can settle this matter about being king, and Anora's death later?” Wynne broached over the rest the group with a slightly calmed manner. When she came forth, Aldanon became sombre and apologetic.
“Wynne, I owe you an apology for my shouting at you, you were exhausted and it was uncalled for. I am sorry.”
“Don't mention it, I already know you're sorry” she said in her usual gentle manner, which suddenly flushed with joy. “But come, there's someone who wants to see you.” Aldanon looked at her in confusion, but then the memory stuck him; Leliana. He followed Wynne hurriedly to the furthest part of the temporary camp, the notion of meeting Leliana again made his stomach somersault and shake about. And then, he beheld her. She was lying on a bed of wolf and rabbit pelts provided by Elanea, and was being nuzzled by Schmooples and Max. When he saw her in full, and not in the thick of battle for the first time, he convinced himself he was a fool to have ignored her beauty at first. Of course, her time in Val Royeaux was an opportunity to shrug off the features that came to her in Ferelden and embrace Orlesian ideals of beauty; longer, redder hair, skin with a stronger tint of gold, her light features emanating a sweet grace. Seeing this undeniably beautiful sight sent Aldanon's heart racing, he was indeed nervous to see her again in spite of his usual boldness, he felt like Alistair with a lady companion. Wynne hid her amusement at his shyness, an abashed look from Aldanon kept her from chuckling.
“Come now, Aldanon, are you not excited to see her again?” she teased him, but Aldanon had already stepped down next to Leliana's sleeping form and taken off his gauntlets, gently lifting her head up. Slowly and sleepily her eyes came open, she raised her hand to her head to gently feel it. At first she couldn't quite believe the world around her, like she was in the Fade. But the contrast of things both fair and foul ended that. She was back.

And then, Leliana's eyes met Aldanon's. As if the Maker himself was watching over them, the Sun burst through the clouds over the city, in spite of the battle to the west. The foul wind from the west turned from bitter cold to pleasantly cool and carried natural freshness across the city, a respite from the heat of battle and fire. All caught beneath the sun were restored in hope and belief that good could triumph. The result of this herald of the Maker, Leliana's fair skin shone with unparalleled brilliance and life, her deep, insightful blue eyes radiated a heavenly grace and sparkled with a rising joy, and her flowing scarlet hair glowed in the light. Aldanon was caught under the Sun as well, his dark brown hair now appeared rich and deep, and in spite of his recent battle and the poor condition he was in, he conveyed a kingly might that Leliana had never seen in him before. For a while they remained silent, fully transfixed by each other, and the others held silent and contemplative witness.
“It's fantastic to see you again, Leli.” Aldanon blurted out unexpectedly, quickly biting his lip to silence himself.
“Aldanon... I -” Leliana tried to say after a while, when a familiar snuffling sound reached her ears. It was Schmooples; the nug clambered onto her and nuzzled her lovingly, she took the nug in her arms and sat up. “You saved me and Schmooples from Marjolaine.” she said in a quiet voice ardent with gratitude. His cheeks flushed as he tried to search for the appropriate words which reflected him justly, but all of the sudden she'd thrust herself into his arms. He smiled as this new feeling of her warmth and affection surged through him.
“Don't mention it.” he said modestly, they swayed as their embrace endured. All of the sudden, she started laughing lightly and quietly, the effect of her soft, lyrical voice made all the world seem that much more pleasant. Aldanon had discovered something that wasn't there before. Before anything else could happen, Aldanon's eyes opened, in the distance there was a pitch-black raven in the clearing sky. It's intelligent eyes locked held an anger in them. Suddenly all inside him turned cold. He knew what this meant; it was Morrigan.

[MireliA]

I'm finally reading through the previous chapter. I agree about Anora, almost glad to see her in fact . And another one with abandoned children . You've been taking lessons!

And the last chapter - Poor Anora! (I'll have to leave the 'I hate Anora fanclub') Great death scene and lovely scene with Aldanon and Leli. T'was almost fluff in fact

Modifié par MireliA, 08 avril 2010 - 07:22 .

[bob-san]

Nice chapter Max. Though the second paragraph felt a little choppy to read. But that could be due to the way these forums format our posts. I think the fact it seemed all lumped togehter made it a little harder to read. But otherwise, nicely done. I've not gotten ar enough into the game to voice my own opinion of Anora, but your interpretation of her was well done.

[Imperator_Valentine]

I see you have continued your epic tail with usual ingenuity, since last I had time to check in. Poor Anora. I always though that for all here pride and ambition I thought there was a noble streak to her that you brought out very well.



Once again I must present my compliments to you Sir!

[Maximus741000]

@ Mirelia, it took me a lot of thinking of how to create the final scene with Aldanon and Leli, I just hope is wasn't too fluffy ; ) . In any event I'm always thrilled when I learn to have created moving scenes.

@ bob-san, the formatting is a bit thick, nevertheless I thank you for the complimentary words.

@ Imperator Valentine, and most gladly I accept them! : ) Its moving to think that my story is considered epic by someone.

On a side note, the reason teh chapter as it's title, is that it alludes to Anora's passing from Aldanon's life (the moon), and Aldanon's realisation of his growing love for Leli is a growing one (the sun)

[bob-san]

Maximus741000 wrote...

On a side note, the reason teh chapter as it's title, is that it alludes to Anora's passing from Aldanon's life (the moon), and Aldanon's realisation of his growing love for Leli is a growing one (the sun)

Oooo, didn't notice that at first.  Nicely done!

[Sisimka]

I am so horribly sad about Anora, I understand why you had her end that way, but still, I had thought they made a nice pair.



It was a lovely chapter though, lots of heartfelt emotion!

[Maximus741000]

@ Sisimka, it gave me no pleasure to end Anora's life, there may have been a time when I would have decided otherwise. All this Anora hate made my blood boil, it was so over-reactive, so half-justified, I just wanted to paint her in a finer light, Cailan would not have married her if she was as mean as people made her out to be. I am overjoyed that the chapter heart-movable, considering it was my first shot. : )

Modifié par Maximus741000, 09 avril 2010 - 03:46 .

[Maximus741000]

I've been a bit long in updating, but it's finally here: *phew*

Breaking the Siege

The appearance of the raven triggered Aldanon's memory of what Morrigan told him in the Fade; the Great Wyrm was on it's way to Val Royeaux. And worse still, he had no idea how the darkspawn attack was going, they could be within the walls of the city. His face froze in fear and horror, so much so that he forgot Leliana was still in his arms, and in response she felt his sudden fear and pulled herself away to see what was wrong and try and read Aldanon's thoughts. Seeing his realization, her face lost all joy, and fell into a mask of confusion.
“Aldanon, I thought you were dead and... Aldanon, what's wrong?” she said as his face remained petrified.
“Leli, I have to go.” he said quickly, getting up from their embrace and spoke sternly. “The darkspawn are still a threat to the city, I can't stay here, even if it's with you.” he softened his voice at the thought of her. “But I have got to do my duty, a duty that should have been done so much earlier. I'm sorry” but she still looked at him in despair and grief as he gently  pulled his arms away, his face clouded by the bitterness of duty in the face of love.
“If you are going to face the darkspawn, then let me join you. I'm not about to let you out of my sight” she said with mustering courage, rose up and took his hands. Before Aldanon could break a smile at her courage, she groaned in pain and clasped her stomach; Aldanon tried to help her, but Wynne stilled his actions.

“Leliana is still recovering from the effects of the sleep spell, she's too vulnerable as she is.”she explained as she helped Leliana to relax on the fur bed. “I also had to use a lot of healing magic to undo most of the effects of Marjolaine's mutilations, I will remain here to tend to her. You will have to go to the battle.” Aldanon's reluctance to leave her was burning through his damaged armour. Urgency dictated that he should have left immediately, but his armour was still in ruins. So he looked to the lightly damaged Armour of Diligence.
“Ser Perth, Durin,” he called to the two nearest warriors. “We need to leave to join the battle soon, but I can't fight safely in the armour I'm in, it's too badly damaged. Help me equip the Armour of Diligence.” both of them helped him to equip it as fast as possible, while Wynne explained the situation to the others and the whole story of the chaos unfolded to Aldanon. While the circumstances were being explained, a company of wayward chevaliers recognised Tremir, and by his word they knelt in respect before Aldanon and joined his company.

                                                                                       ++++++++++++

As soon as Aldanon was ready, his broken Golden Armour safely taken off, Leliana falling asleep, and the elven baby sleeping in Wynne's hands, he called all his companions, wardens and knights and chevaliers together.
“My friends, you have all gone through the heart of darkness itself to see that I would be liberated from the machinations of Marjolaine's evil,” Aldanon spoke out with a powerful voice like thundering waterfalls, “a debt I promise to repay with all my power when I can. But the battle for Val Royeaux and all Orlais has not ended. The Darkpsawn Attack, which we were all meant to fight, continues. I know not how the battle goes for our friends who still defend and die defending this great city, but no more! Let us not delay any longer! Let us rejoin our brothers and sisters! Let us charge to battle and victory!!” the gathered participants in the battle cheered in chorus of high approval. “We will lay the darkspawn low, for though we may be few in number, our hearts are proven! Even those who cannot join us are valiant still.” he said in a lowered, respectful tone and nodded to Wynne and Leliana who smiled in appreciation. He drew Starfang and signalled west “This day, the darkness sunders. For Ferelden! For Orlais! For the Grey Wardens!!!” each one of the respective groups shouted in approving chorus and drew their weapons. Aldanon leapt from the stone from which he spoke, drew and sounded his horn, and sallied forth. The Warden's company charged to battle.

                                                                                       ++++++++++++

The sound of the charge spread across the city. At first, disunited soldiers and mages mistook them for another enemy force from within the city, but the flying heralds and trumpeting declarations reversed the fear. They recognised General Tremir and many of their chevalier heroes, but it was the unmistakable sight of Aldanon leading the charge that set everything into motion. It put the word of Duke d'Aubrac into question, and if Aldanon had come back from the dead, the Maker must have decreed Aldanon innocent. Inspiration to join the charge rose in the hearts of men, and numbers swelled from a meagre one hundred to over a thousand from all walks of sword arms; waylaid soldiers and chevaliers, fortunate templars, late coming reinforcements from the neighbouring provinces, neutral adventurers, nobles and their men, and a valiant commoners willing to lend a sword. This was a fight to save their city. Already, they had encountered smaller groups of darkspawn that infiltrated the city, after being swiftly put down, the army continued. The arrival at the western quarter of the city shocked all who beheld it. The entire district was burning, every house, building and garden, so much smoke billowed up that the sky was blackened, towers lay crumbled and alight, all that was grey or white had blackened from fire. The walls stood reduced to tall piles of rubble from ogre fists, emissary and catapult fire, and the gates were laid to rubble, the darkspawn had long since poured into the region. The iron-wrought gates were sealed and from within, pockets of men resisted the darkspawn, but so many more lay dead. Aldanon drew his horn and issued the army to charge. The walls were cast down and the rallied defenders met their foe with drawn blades.

                                                                                       ++++++++++++

The darkspawn were caught by surprise. The charging assembled warriors came down upon them with such unstoppable rage, many of the weaker ones fell back in fear. With Aldanon and his companions, old and new, leading the charge, the first darkspawn were cut down in their wake. For the enemy, the invasion turned to a bloodbath, having been tested and tried during the initial siege, they expected resistance to be weaker, as if they were depending on another aiding force. Of the defenders, all but the least brave or skilled brought sweeping defeat to the groups of darkspawn, for their courage was renewed. In the charge, isolated groups of soldiers were liberated from the blades of the enemy, or freed from imprisonment in the buildings, thus bolstering the numbers of the renewed defenders. But the most important warriors they hoped to find on the battlefield were the Grey wardens and Commander Charles. Standing in formation ahead of the advancing vanguard was a battalion of thinned out yet valiant warriors holding the outer rim of the battalion, humans, elves and dwarves, all clad in steel, red steel or silverite heavy chainmail and plate armour, with a few archers and mages stationed in the middle of this impressive unit. If there was any doubt as to who they were, the tattered, bloodied, but still visible griffon banner could be seen flying in the wind.

Seeing this Aldanon raised his sword and yelled out for the darkspawn to see as his followers broke the opposition's charge and freed the Orlesian Wardens from being overwhelmed. The breaking of the darkspawn whom the wardens themselves faced was brief and brutal, but triumphant. Aldanon unleashed his rage upon them alongside Oghren, his wrath was enough to stop an ogre in it's steps, so much that Oghren was impressed that he had not wasted his berserker teaching on Aldanon. Zevran, Geoffrey and Durin fought jointly to free men from darkspawn with tactical interventions. Osecar raised a blizzard and a tempest of lightning that halted the darkspawn advance, even applied minor healing spells to soldiers near death. Elanea's had marshalled the archers and formed a firing squad. Nevertheless, the casualties inflicted on the wardens were extreme, nearly a hundred had been slain. So far, there was no sign of Charles, none of the wardens knew where he was. As he paused between fights, Aldanon wanted to know why the chevaliers did not come in time. His exhaustion from the previous fights was only briefly sated, and his lack of his armour left him exercising caution more than he was used to. As the darkspawn numbers in the city began to thin, Durin and Oghren found themselves in thick competition again. The dwarves' actions were strictly competitive, but their reckless contest was scattering darkspawn in their wake.
“So, you've decided to pitch in have you?” Durin taunted Oghren as he cut an alpha down “Ditched the alcohol?”
“Let me tell you something, Durin,” Oghren chided his rival, as he disarmed an emissary, literally “if you weren't so high and mighty, you would not have been cast into the Deep Roads. You were lucky to find the Legion” Durin scowled aggressively, and raised his war axe to knock Oghren senseless, but Oghren arced his axe at him, he ducked in surprise and raised his round shield, Oghren's axe cleanly decapitated another Hurlock alpha.
“That is a story for another time, Oghren” Durin grunted in restrained temper, but resumed his slaughter.

                                                                                       ++++++++++++

Aldanon was in the heat of a duel with a shriek, it's harsh cries stinging his ears. But with a thrust of his shield, it was knocked down, leaving him room to sink his blade into it. Across the city, he could see an Ogre Alpha wreaking havoc on a group of templars. He charged to aid them, when suddenly another man dashed straight into him, knocking both of them over simultaneously. The man picked himself up and gaped wide when he saw him
“Aldanon?! Is it really you!?” Alistair exclaimed in joy, looking down on Aldanon as he nursed his head, took his friend up in his arms and hugged him so hard Aldanon was winded. “Andraste's ass, am I glad to see you!!”
“Alistair! Thank the Maker!” Aldanon cried through heavy panting and relieved himself from his friend's grip, “How did you get here? How long were you here? Is anyone else with you?” he queried rapidly.
“We only just arrived by ship.” Fergus Cousland said behind Aldanon, he turned about, stunned at this sheer chance encounter and lost for words, but Fergus completed the motion with a quick embrace with his brother.
“You haven't received a blow to the head, Aldanon?” Fergus teased as Aldanon's gaping mouth turned to a smile.
“Fergus! Alistair!” Aldanon shouted as they beamed, unaware of the gathering lightning chain from a hurlock emissary. The two new men spun about and knocked it back with a single blast of both their shield; Aldanon joined them with Starfang drawn, and with his brother and his friend, all three sunk their blades into the monster.
“I am relieved that you have come, Fergus,” Aldanon said cordially, “But are you on your own?” Fergus laughed.
“I brought five hundred Highever soldiers aboard my ship, as soon as we saw the battle, we went for the onset.”
With the reinforcing army, the darkspawn within bounds of the city were quickly dissipating, soon it would be time to go forth and end the enemy directly. The presence of Highever's men explained Aldanon's army's surprising success against the darkspawn and the several scattered groups of surviving soldiers, many with the Cousland crest. Atop an errant horse, Aldanon mustered all soldiers and wardens to the gate, signalling to prepare to advance. But a new and worrying sight halted him and his confidence. A strange and heavily armoured darkspawn, resembling a hurlock with a more intellect and will than the other of it's kind, moved ahead of a larger darkspawn army, one that looked more fiercely equipped and armed than the ones he encountered in the city, and joined by beasts like ogres, blight wolves and even shrieks. Before Aldanon could order a tactical regroup and rejoin the army, a swarm of genlock assassins jumped from the wall over the gate and held him back at bow point. The darkspawn, the Discpile, stepped forth, maintaining a strange composure.
“So, you survived the Duke's coup.” it said in a guttural voice. “We let him pass after we noticed his actions were a boon to our assault. When he left the city, most of the chevaliers left with him, the others charged to their deaths. Only the blindest of men ignore us.” it admitted in an aloof manner. Aldanon remained undaunted.
“Your kind never stop to chat. Frankly, I like it that way, saves us a lot of guilt when we destroy your kind.” he said back at the Disciple sternly, and kept his guard up. “What else am I to know before you tempt your fate?”
“Other than your arrogance will befall you, I am known as The Warlord, first Disciple to the Architect and foe of the Grey Wardens, tasked with the purpose of defeating the Grey Warden bastion here. So far, victory is nigh.”
“We'll see about that.” Aldanon challenged The Warlord, “Now, my friends! Attack!!”

Before the genlock assassins could launch their arrows, Osecar had frozen them in place, and allowed the warriors to hack their frozen forms to icy fragments. Aldanon let his horse retreat back into the city, ahead of him The Warlord and the darkspawn charged. He was not prepared for The Warlord's fighting prowess, Fergus' closest soldiers' chests were split across from the Disciples giant, spiked flail. Aldanon was lucky to completely block another swing, but not luck enough to stand his ground. Alistair, Fergus and Geoffrey attempted to force The Warlord against the wall in order to yo overwhelm it; but it's agility saved it, it wheeled around and arced it's flail, sending the three men careering into more darkspawn. Zevran tried to flank it, but before he could raise his dagger, a rapid flail movement sent both his daggers flying out of his hands. Durin and Oghren fared slightly better, their combined berserk rages pushed the Disciple back, until it's flail locked with Oghren's axe, and hurled him into Durin. Even as The Warlord was engaged with just one fighter, others would try to strike it, but in vain; for The Warlord's armour seemed to be unharmed or slightly dented by their blows, as if it's armour was made of sterner stuff, a metal forged in the pits of a volcano. Only the strongest blades with certain signs of enchantment could damage it. Just as it's red eyes focused on Aldanon and the two foes readied to duel, a tumultuous roar pierced the sound of the battle. The Great Wyrm had arrived. The Warlord left Aldanon to face the new foe

                                                                                       ++++++++++++

Due to most of the army defending the gate from the second wave of darkspawn, it was Elanea who spotted the arrival of the Great Wyrm. Upon locking eyes on the dragon, she dropped her bow and froze on the spot, soaking in it's terrible size. She had never seen a dragon before, but tales from her clan's elder always terrified her as a child. Even some of the darkspawn stopped fighting as the dragon raged across the valley. At first, the creature could be seen from the furthest reaches of the coast, raising it's great, green head above the waves, it's roars piercing the very sky like an arrow. It raised it's forelegs and pulled itself out of the water and onto the coast, once safely on land it thrusted forward in a charge. As it ran, it became visible as a growing, green, towering leviathan blasting fire. The Wyrm thundered across the land on four long legs that strode across the land, leaving a trail of destruction; upturned ships, smashed houses, and flattened fields. It's deafening roars caught the attention of the darkspawn; at first they reacted in confusion and frustration, but the creature's hostility towards all darkspawn in it's path forced them into action. The horde's archers let loose their arrows, but the Wyrm's armoured skin simply deflected them. The emissaries loosed their spells, this was more effective, but not enough to halt it's charge. It was seconds away from hitting the greater horde, rows of their crude pikes formed. It halted, reared up and inhaled, and unleashed a jet of fire; reducing the pikes to charred heaps of waste metal.

In panic, rage and desperation for victory, the darkspawn turned about and attacked. But the Wyrm lunged through the horde, and the darkspawn beneath his claws and knocked over by his crushing jaws. In battle, he was nigh unstoppable, rending entire clusters lesser hurlocks and genlocks lifeless with each swipe of it's tail and claws, and leaving the alphas hard-pressed and the emissaries unnerved. The ogres sought to group together and force the the Wyrm back with brute force; but in their craving to fight, the Wyrm resorted to sharper weapons than sheer strength and sunk his vice-like jaws into the robust body of an ogre, and crushed it's skeleton. The Warlord attempted to gather his forces, assembling all darkspawn alphas, emissaries, and most direly; the armoured ogre vanguard. The Wyrm noticed The Warlord and what it was ordering the horde to do, and unleashed another surge of fire, killing several but merely maiming the stronger ones. The Warlord stepped forward to challenge him.

                                                                                       ++++++++++++

With the horde's retreat from the gate, this was the opportunity Aldanon had hoped for. He raised his sword and shouted out for the army to hear; the charge was sounded. Only a few darkspawn had remained to watch the renewed army, but more and more were being drawn to battle the immense dragon. At the head of this advance column, Aldanon was at the head; with Alistair and Fergus to his right and left. Fergus' military expertise and Alistair's rousing words inspired the soldiers to new levels of zeal and ability, drawing darkspawn unwillingly towards their blades. Geoffrey had mustered the warrior wardens and wove their force through the gaps between the droves of darkspawn. Durin and Oghren, known for unlikely strategists, actively directed the battalions of men across the field. Osecar had gathered a picket force of mages and directed their fire on the armoured ogres. Wynne made her appearance known when a group of wounded men sprung back into the fight. The mages were joined by Elanea and her archers. The elven warden was caught by surprise when a stunning young woman joined the archers, but gladly accepted her presence when she recognised her; Leliana. From the walls, her arrows flew with pinpoint precision, striking down many a darkspawn that sought to strike Aldanon from behind him as he fought.

The Warlord isolated himself from the dragon; he'd sustained critical tooth wounds and burns to him and his armour. Geoffrey, seeing the plighted darkspawn general, rushed through the host, his blade pierced their armour and his shield knocking them senseless, until he reached the Disciple. He plunged his blade into The Warlord, through a weak point in it's armour; it roared and swerved around but Geoffrey remained firmly attached. It's flail thrashed to search for him, but merely struck more of it's kind. He wrenched the blade out of it's body and plunged it through The Warlord's mouth; the force knocked it clean off it's feet and onto the ground. Seeing their general felled and their numbers thinned by both man and beast, the horde began to scatter.

                                                                                       ++++++++++++

Everything that was under The Warlord's command was obliterated, either by fear, dragon fire or by sword. As the darkspawn retreated, the soldiers deigned to pursue and destroy. By Aldanon's order, the southern part of the battlefield was forbidden, for the Great Wyrm was still in battle. The clouds over the battle broke and the sun burst through; in sheer, blind and utter panic as lesser darkspawn fell away, the stronger ones, ogres and alphas, turned on all things living; human or darkspawn, only die of exhaustion or the weapons of soldiers. The hosts of darkspawn were now completely scattered. The generals called the army to halt, but Aldanon feared that even then the battle was not ended. The Great Wyrm, though battered and wounded, still lived. The darkspawn that carried the most grievous of wounds were his victims, Darksbane, Aldanon thought, as a fitting name for this dragon who had spelled doom for the darkspawn host, and a name that reflected the potential danger this dragon reflected if his attention turned to human lands.

The Wyrm turned his attention to Aldanon, the figure of his nightmare and the reason he came down from the Frostback Mountains to hunt him down. In hateful rage, he crouched to strike out in speed, but something stilled his move. Above the heads of the army, a winged silhouette blotted out the sun as it flew, earth-trembling roars beating down on the ground. Darksbane recognised the newcomer; a High Dragon. Perhaps she'd moved from other lands or had been hunting further afield, but she did not attack or fly close enough to encourage archer fire. Her regal greyish purple scales glowed in the light of dawn as she stopped, hovering over the Wyrm. As by Morrigan's words, he reared up to see her, but either in ignorance or in search of safer haven, flew on. The Wyrm turned about, starting out for the coast, before looking back at Aldanon, the nemesis of his dream, roared out in vengeance with columns of fire and set for the Waking Sea. Victory. It came as something unexpected to the army, but their joy could not be unabated. Aldanon smiled as the last of the dark pall withered in the light and Darksbane slithered under the waves. Thank you, Morrigan.

Modifié par Maximus741000, 11 avril 2010 - 06:27 .

[MireliA]

it certainly feels like all the loose ends are being tied up I really enjoyed this chapter.

[bob-san]

Yes, but we do still need to rescue Celene and deal with that traitorous Duke

[MireliA]

bob-san wrote...

Yes, but we do still need to rescue Celene and deal with that traitorous Duke

Bah! I didn't mean it was actually finished! *mutters about some people being too picky*

[bob-san]

MireliA wrote...

bob-san wrote...

Yes, but we do still need to rescue Celene and deal with that traitorous Duke

Bah! I didn't mean it was actually finished! *mutters about some people being too picky*

*pick* *pick* *pick* *pick* 

Modifié par bob-san, 12 avril 2010 - 03:07 .

[MireliA]

bob-san wrote...

MireliA wrote...

bob-san wrote...

Yes, but we do still need to rescue Celene and deal with that traitorous Duke

Bah! I didn't mean it was actually finished! *mutters about some people being too picky*

*pick* *pick* *pick* *pick* 

*sticks tongue out and does a 'ner ner'*

[bob-san]

MireliA wrote...

bob-san wrote...

MireliA wrote...

bob-san wrote...

Yes, but we do still need to rescue Celene and deal with that traitorous Duke

Bah! I didn't mean it was actually finished! *mutters about some people being too picky*

*pick* *pick* *pick* *pick* 

*sticks tongue out and does a 'ner ner'*

*LOL*

Modifié par bob-san, 12 avril 2010 - 04:11 .

[Harutes]

I'm really enjoying this, it's a nice change from a lot of the other fan-fiction out there. It's all good, this is just a nice change. I've found that the fan created works are of very high quality for this community, it's inspired me to think about writing something myself.... once I get a good idea.

[Ken555]

So sorry i haven't been keeping up but I am loving it, great stories!

[Maximus741000]

Sorry about the long delay, net access was difficult and there werethings I needed to do outside of writing

The Next Move

The aftermath of battle is always a bitter one. Aldanon returned to the gate to help lead and organise the relief parties tasked with the aiding of the many warriors and townsfolk who were injured in the battle, and to make sure no one approached the burnt wreck that was Marjolaine's former base. The battlefield outside of the city had been mutilated from verdant farmlands and homesteads to blackened, barren wastelands dotted with charred rubble that was the homesteads and the siege weapons, and covered by the rotting corpses of darkspawn. Upon getting a clear view of the city from the walls, Oghren and Zevran could see the extent of the damage to the city done by the darkspawn. The city was almost unrecognisable; entire buildings were laid bare from fire and sheer force, blazes continued to rage across much of the city, causing smoke to billow into the sky, and the dead within the streets were too many to number. In a surprising turn of events, the Chantry priest permitted the mages to use their spells on injured people, whilst being watched by a lone templar. Much to Zevran's admiration, Wynne vehemently refused to have a templar guard watch over her, and with Aldanon's support. Most of the survivors and refugees of those regions worst effected were were taken to the Grand Cathedral and many other smaller chantries to be given refuge by the priests. From the walls, entire crowds and waves of refugees were sweeping through the streets, their bitter weeping ringing all the way to the walls of the city and the docks.

“To think we came this close to defeat.” Zevran said in astonishment, taking in the view “It almost reminds me of Denerim at the end of the Blight, however it's beauty and size makes the loss seem much greater.”
“Aye, Val Royeaux is a fine city,” he said calmly but grew bristly, “even if their ladies aren't!” he added huffily, Zevran smiled in private amusement. “Still, I can't help but hope we can help as many people as possible.”
“This certainly isn't over,” Zevran said with a growing indignation, “Those who were responsible for allowing such a disaster should be made to pay. With that in mind, it puts into question what our next move is.”
“You mean after we're done cleaning up here?” Oghren asked, the elven assassin nodded. “I would assume, try to get back to wherever Aldanon and Anora were in the whole politics thing, that is if Celene is still alive.” The pair rested their backs against the wall, wiping beads of sweat off their brows and breathing heavily from fatigue.
“There are entire regiments of men, both Fereldans and Orlesians working round the clock to put down the fires and get people to every possible refuge.” Oghren commented, “Aldanon even managed to convince the nobles of the city to allow refugees to be provided in their homes! Not bad, eh?” Zevran nodded wearily but with gladness.
“Zevran, Oghren! Better hurry,” Elanea's voice came rapidly across to them as she ran, an urgent, troubled look on her face, “It's Commander Charles. He hasn't got long.”

                                                                                              ++++++++++

Warden-Commander Charles lay with his back against the charred ruins of a building, his dragonbone armour pierced by many darkspawn blades and patched by red-stained cloths, his bearded face completely drained of strength and purpose with his wounds. He'd been knocked unconscious from The Warlord's flail when it entered the gates, but retreated when the wardens assaulted it when the rest of it's retinue were slain. The grey wardens who found him said that while they tried to make him rest he was hearing strange noises in his head, as if something were calling to him in his mind. When they tried to heal him, he refused their aid and told them that his time had come either way. His nightmares had strengthened, it was the Calling. When Aldanon saw the dying Warden, he stopped in his tracks, dropping his sword on the ground limply as he stepped over to the crowd of assembled mourning wardens. They broke apart and allowed him to kneel close to their commander, who had been both a kind and a firm voice for all wardens.

“Commander?” Aldanon said hoarsely; Charles stirred slightly and looked up at Aldanon with eased eyes.
“Aldanon,” he began brokenly, “the wardens tell me you've won this battle for us, even though the situation was dire and nearly lost for us.” he slowly raised his and and rested it in Aldanon's. “I owe you my thanks.”
“Well, I had loads of help from Geoffrey, Osecar, Durin, Elanea and Argeles – Maker rest his soul. They were all fantastic and I owe them much. But Sir, I'm the reason the battle was nearly lost,” Aldanon said morosely, “had I not left, we would have had a sweeping victory on the field. Had I not fallen for the Duke's trap, I -”
“That's not true and you know it, Aldanon” Geoffrey said firmly, clasping his shoulder, “If we weren't there, the darkspawn from the tunnels would have flanked us and they would have overrun the city.”
“None of what has happened matters now,” Charles' weakening voice rung over their argument. “We have victory where we may not have.” suddenly he gritted his teeth and groaned in pain, “My time with you is short, my wardens. Before I depart, I name Geoffrey Warden-Commander of the Grey Wardens of Orlais.” Geoffrey knelt before Charles, and the elder warden untied a silver brooch – the Chain of Command – the symbol of the Orlesian Wardens' authority. “For any wrongs Aldanon may have done before or during the battle, I pardon them all. For he has loyalties that extend beyond the Wardens, he is as much a king as a warden. And now the enemy is gone, he has one final duty in Orlais; save Empress Celene from d'Aubrac.” Aldanon nodded in understanding.
“Thank you, Charles. I really cannot thank you enough.” Charles smiled and laid his hand on Aldanon's shoulder.
“I'm sure the Grey Wardens will be proud to have you. May the Maker watch over you.” he said in length.
“But where is d'Aubrac's Castle? Charles?” Aldanon asked him, not willing to let him pass. But Charles did not speak again. He was completely motionless as his hand dropped slowly to the ground. The solemn wardens lowered their heads, and a few gave way to tears. He stepped back from Charles' silent form, memories of the old warden clinging to him; of his sense of duty and loyalty to all wardens within his knowledge. There was a stronger sense of justice to the destruction of the darkspawn, much like how Alistair felt about Denerim's victory.
“Aldanon,” Alistair's urgent voice came as a disturbance to the sombreness. “It's Arl Eamon, he's landed.”
“Alright, but before we go, there's quite a lot I need to tell you. It's of the utmost importance.”

                                                                                              ++++++++++

Aldanon followed Alistair's lead away from the wardens with reluctance. It was more than wanting to be there for Charles' cremation. He'd been with them long enough to be considered one of their own, so he hoped, but he felt charged to continue his duty to the wardens in whatever manner Geoffrey ordered. But he had to be prepared displace himself from that, Alistar left his post as Warden Commander of Ferelden so that he could help him. What would prove to be more imperative; the Wardens or the political bond between Ferelden and Orlais? Whilst they walked, he explained to him of how Anora led the knights to him whilst he dealt battle with Marjolaine's forces, and Alistair became impressed and envious all at once; he was surprised by Anora's actions but wished to have been with Aldanon. After asking where Anora was, he learned the dire truth and her decision to let Aldanon succeed her.

“Maker's breath.” He said sadly and slowly, “I never would have thought Anora would be capable of leading the knights to battle to save you. You must have really been a bright spark in her life.” he laid his hand on Aldanon's shoulder. Aldanon smiled at his friend's comforting words and seeing his hatred for Anora dissipate. When they reached the docks, Aldanon could see a vast fleet of nearly twenty ships cruising slowly into view, and all that remained of the Ferelden Knights that boarded the Sea Dragon on her voyage to Val Royeaux. Aldanon wondered how to explain the situation of Anora's death to them, and how to quickly and effectively settle the chain of command without imposing himself or anyone else as regent for the throne. Realistically, his claim to the throne was strong due to having the knights as witnesses to Anora's passing and her testament of succession.
“Aldanon!” Alistair said sharply, digging his elbow into Aldanon, who jumped abruptly back to reality. “Eamon's ship is about to land. You should probably unfurl your banner, as word that you've survived.” to his friend's advice, Aldanon nodded to Ser Perth, who obediently drew Aldanon's royal standard and waved it into the wind.
“How do we tell them about Anora and the succession to the throne?” Aldanon asked in a puzzled tone.
“Now that is a good question. I suppose with the knights as witnesses, you are the best candidate for the throne. Myself, I'm certainly not game. I mean, I'm enjoying my duty as a grey warden; this is what I want to do.”
“We'll allow the nobility to decide that; you're still a strong candidate for the throne, even if you don't want it.”
“Wait, are you actually saying you're reluctant to take the throne?” Alistair asked in surprise. “I thought you wanted to claim it.” Before Aldanon could explain it to Alistair, the sailor's aboard Eamon's ship barked out orders, and the ship drifted into position, waves of water from the sea licking up into the pier. A horn sounded from the ship, moments later, Eamon's retinue assembled before Aldanon and Alistair. Then Eamon left the ship, he was clad in his dragonbone armour and the rest of his war equipment. On seeing Alistair, his face hardened in frustration, and Alistair shook a bit; but seeing Aldanon, he strode over and warmly clasped his hand, smiling.
“Alistair, I admit to being rather impressed by your getaway plan with Fergus,” he said to Alistair at first, “even if it did cost us time and resources to fix the damage. But Aldanon, it's a blessing from the Maker that you are all right, we all believed you were dead. But I see that the story of what happened here runs deeper than I first thought. First, we must know of Queen Anora and what exactly happened here before we decide our next move.”
“Eamon, I regret to tell you that Queen Anora has died.” he said in a slow broken voice, Eamon stepped back in shock, completely lost for words. “She was killed by the true enemy behind this disaster, but she died saving me and my companions from possible death. Before she died, she named me the successor to the throne as king, and I have these good knights as my witnesses.” he gestured to Ser Perth and the other knights, who nodded in confirmation of Aldanon's words. “I am reluctant to take the throne, Eamon, but I will if the need arises.”

Eamon stared at the water by the pier, thoroughly stunned and unable to believe it, as if Ferelden had fallen.
“This is possibly the direst news I've heard since you told me of Cailan's death.” he said sorrowfully, “I will tell the the other nobles of this disaster, and we will find a way to settle this. I'm afraid your succession will be challenged. But first; what's the situation in Val Royeaux? What do you plan to do and what should my men do?”
“I understand you will want to put Alistair up for the throne like last time, Eamon.” Aldanon said as Alistair jumped to attention at reference of his name. “As for what we must do; last night,Val Royeaux came under attack the city needs hands to help repair most of the damage and protect the city from another possible darkspawn attack.” Eamon's face hardened at the mention of the darkspawn. “But the situation is worse than that; Empress Celene has been captured by the treacherous Duke Claude d'Aubrac' who now attempts to seize Celene's power. The city's military is too weak to go after d'Aubrac and needs time to rest. That leaves me and any companions I select responsible from saving her from d'Aubrac's stronghold, northwards along the Imperial Highway; Imperial Keep. The Duke probably has the greater part of Orlais' armies at his castle, but only a few will be truly loyal to him, if he puts his chevaliers to use, you must have your army and any others standing by to aid us if needed.”
“I'm impressed Aldanon.” Eamon said with esteem, “You certainly shown yourself to be able enough to deal with these situations, a rather kingly quality.” Aldanon smiled. “But we will let the Landsmeet decide that later.”
“Very well, but be prepared to send them northwards if I call for them. I must ask the Grey Wardens what their plans are now, I'll consult the chevaliers here what their next move is, and I'll notify you the moment I've spoken to both of them. Then, we prepare for the march on Imperial Keep.” Eamon nodded heedfully.
“An elaborate and worthy plan, Aldanon” he said, “I will inform the nobles about this at once. Good luck.”

                                                                                              ++++++++++

General Tremir had established himself at the centre of the district, in exactly the same place where d'Aubrac and Charles placed their camp before the battle. Around him, the several nobles and chevaliers nodded obediently  to his commands in Orlesian, which Aldanon had been able to understand, thanks to his education at Highever and his preparations for coming here. Having only seen him in battle, Aldanon did not know what he looked like until now; the man was in his late thirties, had a hazel eyes that complemented his short, brown hair.
“And I want all your men assembled and ready to march north, we must mobilize as quickly as possible or we risk civil war, understood?” the nobles and officers nodded and left to their men, Tremir turned to Aldanon. “Ah, there you are. I've ordered every man in authority to prepare for the march north. Is there something you want?”
“I'm impressed you are able to command authority so flawlessly” Aldanon complimented, “I'm curious, is this something chevalier generals can assume in the event of a crisis?” Tremir considered his misunderstanding.
“I come from a high noble family, Aldanon.” he explained, “I am a duke, sir. But my elder sister inherited the duchy and I joined the chevaliers at the age of sixteen, I've had twenty years to rise through the ranks.”
“Impressive, that would explain the authority” Aldanon noted, “But what of our next move? I intend to lead a group of my companions ahead of the army and infiltrate Imperial Keep – it's a speciality of mine.”

“We are preparing for a forced march to Imperial Keep with both armies, and we will make the march north tomorrow morning. You don't think that your presence on the battlefield with your men as their king will be more important?” Tremir questioned Aldanon, he paused nervously as he attempted to search for the right words.
“I know I put myself at risk by putting myself in the heart of the enemy's lands,” Aldanon said firmly, “but I have done this before. In fact I may not even succeed the Ferelden throne, the Landsmeet must abide by it.”
“You know, I do sort of agree with Tremir.” Alistair casually entered the scene, Aldanon shook his head at his friend's unhelpful contribution. “If you do die, Eamon will put me on the throne and that bodes ill for everyone.”
“Alistair, I'm trying to get Celene out of imprisonment.” Aldanon moaned grumpily “I don't think what you said will help us get her out, considering I may find myself far from where I want to be.” Alistair glared at him.
“I'm only saying that you can't be where you risk too much, Aldanon, a lot is resting on your shoulders.” Alistair explained in a cooler tone. “let the army deal with d'Aubrac, but as future king this is too dangerous for you.”
Aldanon grew visibly enraged, “You have absolutely no reason or right to impose sanction on me, Arl !” he fumed, Alistair's disgust grew considerably. “I will not be told where I can or cannot be. In fact, I was about to offer you a place in my advance group, but if you want to hold me back, then neither of us can take part in this.”
“Enough!!” Tremir boomed over the two men, “Don't let your personal feelings cloud your judgement. We will reach a decision shortly, but if you feel strongly about going at your own will, I have no right to stop you.” Aldanon nodded, and budged past Alistair, who continued to stare on, stupefied at his friend's anger.

                                                                                              ++++++++++

Before he was able to locate the other Wardens, Aldanon found Leliana near the Grand Cathedral, kneeling before the ruined, defaced statue of Andraste, where many people were mourning it's ruin as a slight to the Andrastian Chantry. Though he thought it irrelevant to all that had happened around them, Aldanon reminded himself that this was the most religious part of Thedas and the home of the Chantry. Her presence made Aldanon feel overjoyed and nervous at the same time, this was different from the way he felt about Morrigan, who made him feel enticed without any natural feelings. He could not tell if she loved him, but he even as closer friends, he felt closer to genuine warmth than before. Before he could come over to her, he saw Wynne in the distance, she waved to him and beckoned him to come to her corner of the road leading away from the Grand Cathedral.

“Ah, Wynne, any news of the situation? Did you bring the elven babe back to her people?” But Wynne shook her head, she was holding the tiny bundle which contained the her and wrapped the cloth over her sleeping head.
“I tried to take her back to the alienage,” Wynne explained earnestly, her voice growing bitter as she remembered the event.“but the moment I entered, a gang of of decrepit looking elves attempted to mug me, assuming I was a noble! I used my spells to ward them off and tried to explain that I was just returning her, but they said she was 'just another mouth to feed', I was so appalled and furious that I left them.” a tear streaked down her eye as she restrained her anger. “Sorry, I'm still struggling to understand it. These elves are obviously bitterer than the ones who live in Denerim's alienage.” Aldanon groaned loudly, only to be hushed by Wynne.
“This is terrible,” Aldanon said in a hushed tone, “The baby simply can't stay with us, it's too dangerous for her.”
Wynne nodded, and considered for a moment. “I understand, but honestly I think she's better off with us.”

“Who's better off with us?” Leliana's voice entered their ears with curious interest.
They spun their heads over to her and she walked over to them and focused her eyes on the bundle in Wynne's hands. Aldanon tried to speak but Wynne gestured him to relax and allowed her to gently place her hands on the bundle, unwrapping the cloths and revealing the sleeping babe within. Upon seeing her, Leliana stilled with wonder, gently placing her hands over her mouth as she slowly gasped, a wide smile growing on her face.
“Oh my word!” she exclaimed in a joyful breathless voice, “Why, she's beautiful! Oh look at her! Hello, little one.” she lightly laid her hands on the babe, whose eyes blinked open and smiled happily, she softly took the baby from Wynne's arms, cradling the babe, smiling, cooing and giggling affectionately and nestling the baby to her as if she were her own child. Aldanon stared, astonished and enraptured, making an effort not to gape. Leliana radiated that familiar warmth and sweetness to her as he looked on, but maternal grace had appeared in her that was difficult to explain, it was so instinctive and at the same time unconditional. Wynne smiled warmly.
“We haven't been able to bring her back to her people, Leli.”Aldanon said in an effort to muster his senses.
Suddenly, Leliana turned to him. “Can I keep her?” she appealed; the question jump-started Aldanon's heart into racing again. Had she just asked that? “I just want to take care of her, I will be fully responsible for her.”

Aldanon sighed. “Yes, you can take care of her.” Leliana stared at him at first, then her glowing smile blossomed out. She ran up to him and with her one arm, wrapped it tightly around his neck, and planted a kiss on his cheek.
“Thank you so much!” she said happily, “I really can't thank you enough!” she released him and returned to cuddling and kissing the elven baby that was now, and very happily, hers, skipping off towards a garden that had been spared by the battle. Aldanon continued to stare in admiration after her; she had so willingly given herself to the obligation of this child where few would have, with each second he felt warmer and warmer each time he found himself near to her. Wynne chuckled heartily and reached to pinch Aldanon's extremely flushed cheeks.
"Did you just change your mind, Aldanon?" Wynne asked him teasingly, "For Leliana, no less?"
"It was nescessary." He said shotrly, eager to escape the conversation. "I only did what I had to do. And don't worry, I'll think of something, Maker knows I'll have to!" But Wynne was convinced otherwise.
"You did that to make Leliana happy!" she beamed, and Aldanon grew redder and nodded reluctantly.
“Wynne, I need to get back into battle before I grow mellow and fuzzy, and she calls me 'Softie'!” he said in an alarmed voice as he realise how red he had turned and how amused Wynne was. Realising the that the snug feelings had left him flushed and embarrassed, he quickly left the area, only to bump into Alistair – again.
“I saw your ecstatic expression when Leliana skipped off into the distance.” he said, enjoying his friend's embarrassment. Aldanon swallowed hard as his best friend attempted to extract his desired information.
“Um... Alistair -” Aldanon stammered, “Firstly, I'd like to apologise for my beastly behaviour earlier on.”
“Apology accepted,” Alistair said dutifully, but let his joy take over. “But seriously though, go on, tell me! Is it serious? Do you mean to tell me that you love Leliana?” Aldanon stammered and shook a lot before answering.
“In short; yes. I do like her” he said at length. Alistair laughed and ruffled Aldanon's hair and beat his shoulder.
“Good for you, mate!” he said, still chuckling. “I hope when this is over, she learns about this!” he ruffled his hair again and left with Wynne. I seriously need to start fighting again. Aldanon thought wearily.

Modifié par Maximus741000, 14 avril 2010 - 10:44 .

[Ken555]

Yay go Leliana! Heh, I can imagine the look on Aladonon's face.

[Ken555]

Lovely, you don't need to apologize for the delays, they build up the suspense!

[Maximus741000]

Sorry for the rather slow update:

New Journeys

Perhaps Aldanon bit off more than he'd bargained for when he wished for a more serious situation. The situation with the Orlesian Wardens was dire, their numbers were reduced to a meagre one hundred from a formidable two hundred, excluding the others stationed in different parts of Orlais. And with Geoffrey positioned as Warden-Commander of Orlais, many senior wardens started objecting to the late Charles' last request and even vying for power amongst themselves, unable to accept a younger man as their leader. Geoffrey addressed these to Aldanon.
“You must understand that there's nothing I can do to aid you.” Geoffrey said flatly to Aldanon's disappointment. “Many of the grey wardens now believe that we've done our part for the Empress and Orlais, now we must focus on rebuilding our numbers. It should not have been such a difficult battle!” his voice rose to a shout.
“I understand fully, Geoffrey,” Aldanon expressed, “but I cannot understand why your men would prefer to stay out of this as opposed to get revenge on the man who allowed so many of our brothers to be slain.”
“Aldanon, we will not be part of this!” Geoffrey flared, “There are still darkspawn out there, we need to learn more about this new enemy, these Disciples. It mentioned an unknown entity; the Architect. We don't know what it is and thus my brothers need this window of opportunity to understand what it is and what danger it poses. Grey Wardens are not supposed to involve themselves in politics, what you and Alistair had to do was an exception.” Aldanon considered his friend's words, he could not demand the wardens to step out of their mission against the darkspawn to aid him, but he could not imagine that they would be so bitter as to not help at all.
“Is there no way you can help my cause?” Aldanon requested, Geoffrey thought for a moment.
“Very well,” he concluded, “I'll send Osecar, Elanea and Durin with you. But I'm afraid our alliance has ended with Charles bestowing command onto me, I cannot come with you.” Aldanon nodded understandingly
“Then I cannot ask for more. Thank you, Geoffrey” he shook the new Warden-Commander's hand firmly.
“If you insist of going to battle d'Aubrac personally, then your duties to the Wardens are concluded until further notice. But, if more signs of these Disciples appear, or even signs of this Architect, then you must put aside your kingly duties and be there when the time comes, not as king but commander. You understand this, yes?”
“Of course; you and your brothers have my word as king-regent and as a Grey Warden that I will uphold this agreement and battle these new and dangerous darkspawn.” he solemnly swore in oath to Geoffrey, who accepted his brother's word. Behind him, the number of wardens saddling up to ride out from the city was growing; they would soon be ready to ride forth after the darkspawn. A young warden called out to him.
“I must go, now. Farewell, and good luck, Aldanon.” they exchanged mutual expressions of esteem, and Geoffrey turned to his horse, gave Aldanon one last look of respect and with a the trotting of hooves, he had gone beneath the archway of the gate and ahead of the riding wardens.

                                                                                       ++++++++++++

“Aldanon, you've either gone too soft or too nuts!” Oghren grunted in aggravation, after learning that he had decided to let Leliana take care of the elven babe. “How do you plan to lead us if your head's in the clouds?”
Aldanon ignored the dwarf's rant. “I will think of something, Oghren. Just have faith in me, I'm pretty sure Leli realizes she can't follow me into battle and carry a baby.” he said calmly, but Oghren simply laughed at his affectionate term for Leliana, much to Wynne's annoyance. Durin, Elanea, Zevran, Alistair and Fergus were also present when he admitted to them that he believed Leliana was the best person to look after the girl.
“You do realize this is extremely risky business, Al.” Alistair said disappointedly. “I understand your growing appreciation for her, but she's just not ready to fight. And you'll be in no state to fight if she's with next you.”
“I spoke to Leliana, and she seems insistent on coming with you despite the fact she now has Aveline. She's not about to leave you, Aldanon.” Wynne said in astonishment, but everyone gave her bewildered expressions.
“I'm sorry, but who exactly is Aveline? And does Aldanon know about her?” Durin asked in confusion.
“Oh, that's the baby's name. We don't know her real name, so Leliana called her Aveline, after the main character in an Orlesian tale. And yes, Aldanon knows perfectly well who she is, he was the one who saved her.”
“Aldanon, if you do love Leliana, I'm afraid your feelings may be in vain.” Fergus told his brother steadily. “Nobles can only marry to others of their status, even from other lands, but Leliana has no noble blood in her.”
“Regardless,” Zevran broke in curtly. “our leader should not let his heart govern his head. Least of all now.”
“Look, I am not about to discuss the nature of Aveline or me in front of you ,” Aldanon said angrily. “I have to inform Arl Eamon and General Tremir about the plan to move ahead of the army, we will march on d'Aubrac.”
But Alistair was far from convinced. “Aldanon, defeating d'Aubrac won't be an easy task, you need to see that.”
“Alistair, we've just turned the tide of battle on two fronts!” he said defensively, “We will win against him!”
“Why are you always so negligent about everything?!” Alistair shouted as turned on his friend, “This is always what happens with you; you go through the world as though it was your storybook. You're stuck in a dream, and this time no one's going to wake you up other than you. Why don't you just stop being so selfish, and at least accept that your duty won't be easy before you can shirk it!” At first, Aldanon stared numbly in shock at the man whom he respected as a friend, and he likewise, letting the words settle in painfully, he turned red with rage.
“Alistair, not that you actually bothered to ask, but I care for so much more than myself.” Aldanon growled and strode off as far and fast as his legs could carry him away from them. Alistair looked on dismally as he angrily barged through the city. The others stood shocked at Alistair's rant and quietly broke off from each other.

                                                                                       ++++++++++++

“Is there something wrong, Aldanon? You seem a rather irate.” Eamon asked Aldanon as he sat himself down to confer with the assembled Ferelden nobles. Aldanon made his effort to suppress his anger from the argument. The other nobles; Arl Bryland and Wulff, and Banns Teagan, Sighard, and Alfstanna were concerned that their young commander was in the midst of emotional turmoil, but Aldanon ignored their inquiring looks.
“Don't worry about me, Eamon. I'll be fine in a moment.” Aldanon said in a calmer voice, “Let's just settle this attack on d'Aubrac's stronghold now rather than later. I also trust the nobles now know of the situation?”
“I've told the nobles of Anora's death, the all moved to settle the succession here rather than at the Landsmeet.” Eamon explained to him. “They've decided that your actions here will determine your succession.”
“In that case, let us move on to the strategy.” Aldanon said as Tremir drew a map of the city and the surrounding lands, Imperial Keep sat proudly to the north. “d'Aubrac will no doubt be residing within the keep,” Tremir explained, “but the scouts report that near two thousand of his chevaliers patrol the surrounding lands every day. Several hundred chevaliers are being summoned to the keep every day from all across the Empire; d'Aubrac must be forcing them to swear fealty to him. Aldanon and a select few will infiltrate the keep, one group will free Celene and get her away from the battlefield, the other will knock out the keep's defences. His group's objective is the Keep's portcullis gate to the south; once it flies open, Arl Eamon's men will charge from cover of the trees and the chevaliers under my command will swerve around the keep to the northern hills, make it look like a routine patrol, and harry his army from behind. To make the ruse look like a patrol, the chevaliers will carry a banner of his house that I found earlier in Palais Royeaux and must signal it to any treacherous chevaliers if they encounter them.” the assembled nobles and knights nodded in accord as an achievable plan, but considered that victory was predicated on Aldanon's infiltration mission succeeding; a very high risk.
“How do you plan on getting into the castle, Aldanon?” asked Eamon; one point Aldanon didn't cover.
“I'm not entirely certain, but my experiences of Fort Drakon may prove useful in getting in.” Aldanon said, remembering his imprisonment in Fort Drakon alongside Alistair, and their escape disguised as soldiers.
“Remember, once the defences are down, you must signal Eamon's army in the woods to attack.” Tremir said to him, “Once the Ferelden army is engaged, my chevaliers will charge from the hills. It depends on you, Aldanon.”

                                                                                       ++++++++++++

Just as Aldanon readied to mount the horse, a strange sight caught his eye; it was an elderly man with a long argent beard, and short, greying hair and spectacles that often slipped off his eyes. He was clothed in heavy brown robes and a pouch slung across his body which contained curious assortments of scrolls, judging by the occasional pause to nurse his back, he must have been working throughout the day tending to the people of the city. He seemed rather out of place in the midst of the chaos, but his determination showed his commitment to the task. Aldanon left his horse and walked over to the old man, an idea had struck him.
“Excuse me, sir.” the old man didn't hear him at first, “Sir, may I speak with you.” he said again louder.
“What, what, what!?” the old man exclaimed in a croaky voice and bustled about. “Oh! Hello.” he said amicably. “You must be King Aldanon. My name is Brother Giovanni, scholar of the Grand Cathedral at your service, sir.”
The scholar shook his hand. “In that case, Brother Giovanni,” Aldanon said, sitting the elderly scholar on a nearby bench, “I am in need of your assistance. I would like to borrow you from your duties here do do some genealogy research; specifically for Houses of one of the families of nobles who were present in during the time of the Orlesian Occupation, specifically the ones who were known to have employed Fereldan men and women as servants and to find out whether any of those servants bore descendants who may have lived on to this day.”
“I'm afraid I can't allow that, sir.” Giovanni said gravely. “Those records hold particularly dark days for Orlais; only the nobility and the scholars are allowed to see them.” Aldanon nodded knowingly. “Why must you know?”
“I have no intention of seeing them myself,” he explained to the scholar, “I just want you to see them and if you find something, I would be grateful to know. As for why I want to know, I'm specifically interested in that of the Household of Lady Cecile and one of her maids; a Fereldan woman. I'd like you to find her family tree and who was the man whom she met. A reward in gold will be paid when I return.” Giovanni considered Aldanon's words.
“Well, I suppose there's no harm in looking, and I'm certain that gold could do a lot of good for the poor souls in the city. Very well, as soon as I have some spare time, I will search the records. Good luck, my lord.”

                                                                                       ++++++++++++

Leliana sat beneath the shade of an oak tree, trying to calm a crying Aveline. She'd guessed the babe was hungry, and managed to acquire a bottle of milk from a cart of relief supplies from the palace with Wynne's help; but though she'd fed her, Aveline was still in discomfort. Though her ability to calm her through use of her sweet voice was of great help, her abilities to care for her properly required a peaceful environment, one that was safe for her. That Aveline survived imprisonment in Marjolaine's caverns good health through Aldanon's deliverance astonished Leliana. The sun was close to setting, and out of the sunlight a mounted, helmed knight rode forth. He was clad in imposing plate amour forged from dragonebone which possessed the signs and trappings of a master smith and the helmet encased his head. On seeing Leliana, the rider stopped his horse and took off his helmet; Leliana could see to her delight that the rider was no mere knight, but Aldanon in his best Dragonbone Armour. In spite of his pleasure seeing her and Aveline, Aldanon had to maintain his seriousness on the battle ahead.
“We're almost ready to head north for Imperial Keep, I wish you could join us.” he said solemnly as his glad feelings from seeing her gave way while he dismounted. “What do you plan to do now, Leli?”
“I suppose I shall have to stay and look after her, but lately I find there's no other place I want to be than by your side, even in battle.” she said in a fond voice, wrapping her hands around his, gently pulling him to sit down, allowing a sleeping Aveline to rest between them, and allowing a smile bloom briefly.
“You do understand that I only want to protect both you and Aveline from danger.” he said quietly, and she nodded in agreement, “You and I have braved danger before, but the battlefield is no place for a baby, I only just managed to get her out of those caves. I know there's no separating you from her.” she smiled at his sincerity.
“It warms my heart to know you care about us both so much,” she said warmly, beaming suddenly; “she's almost like a daughter to you.” Aldanon chuckled slightly, gently placing his hand on Aveline's forehead.
“Even if you did decide to come with me, who do you know in the city who could trustfully look after Aveline?” he asked. Leliana looked down at the resting babe, a look of uncertainty drained her fervour.
“King Aldanon? Who is that with you?” an elderly voice came in from behind him. He turned around to see Brother Giovanni waddling uneasily towards him, Leliana looked up and him and smiled in delighted surprise.
“Brother Giovanni!?” she exclaimed, rushing up to greet the old scholar. “It's so good to see you again!”
“And you likewise, Leliana!” Giovanni exclaimed as Leliana hugged him tightly. “You look most splendid.”
“Excuse me,” Aldanon interposed himself, carrying Aveline uneasily in his armour-clad arms, using all his effort at carefulness not to cause the sleeping child discomfort. “But how exactly do you know Leliana, Giovanni?”
“I used to be her private tutor when she was just a girl and lived under the roof of Lady Cecile.” he explained, “Even when she left Cecile, I knew she could not do anything as atrocious as what Marjolaine framed her of.”
“Then I don't suppose I could impose on you again, Giovanni?” asked Aldanon, presenting Aveline to Giovanni.
“Well bless my soul, what a fair lass. Congratulations on your daughter and of your marriage, my friends!” at this, Aldanon and Leliana blushed brightly, he shifted a bit in his armour and scratched his head and Leliana's blush was enough to send tiny trickles of sweat down her neck and stumble to find her words.
“Anyway,” Aldanon reasserted, “Aveline is not our daughter per se, but we would be grateful if you were to take care of her, just for a while. I will be riding to battle, and provided Leliana's still interested, I could use her help.”
The swiftness of the assertion struck upon her, but the idea was a welcome one. “Absolutely, without a doubt!”
“Then it's settled then? By your permission I will take care of the child until you return?” Giovanni asked them, both Aldanon and Leliana nodded in agreement. Leliana handed Aveline gently over to the kindly scholar.
“Aldanon! Where are you? We need to leave now!” Fergus' voice shouted impatiently out from across the streets.
“Coming, Fergus!” Aldanon called out and mounted his horse, “We have an agreement, Giovanni. Maker be with you.” he shook the scholar's hand, and turned to Leliana, “Perhaps, you would like take my horse?”
“How could I refuse, my fine warden?” she giggled as he helped her up onto the horse, and rode off to the gate.

[MireliA]

Finally caught up with the story. And an odd twist it took too .

[Thoron Draugohtar]

Wow, seriously, wow...



Best bit of fan-fiction I have read for ages. Thankyou for writing it, and updating it so quickly.



You have yet another fan, write more, quickly!

[Maximus741000]

@ jojojordmeister, thank you kindly! A new fan is always welcome, and I'll do the best I can to get the next chapter up! : D

[homedog 100000]

I normaly hate fanfic but this one is alright