This idea came from A Very Merlin Musical by whitcrossgirl. I loved it, any Merlinians should read it! I give her kudos for this idea. I have, however, recently become aware of Disney Age by Kashamuffin., which is basically the same idea as this. I'd started writing these before I knew, so I apologise to them for doing what could be considered their idea - no plagarism was intended, just some laughs :) ~Witchcraft

Be Prepared (The Lion King) – Meredith and the Templars

Kirkwall had no leader. The people were turning to that mage loving Champion for guidance. But that didn't mean that Knight Commander Meredith was going to allow that to continue.

She marched in front of her assembled troops – only her most faithful and true to the Chant. Her favourites, but that didn't mean that she would go easy on them. The future was coming, and Meredith meant for that future to be hers. And that would take power. Power, and force.

"I know that your powers of retention," she barked, "Are as wet as a small nug's backside. But thick as you are, pay attention – my words are a matter of pride." The Templars looked blankly back at her. Even Cullen seemed confused. Meredith sighed in exasperation. "It's clear from your vacant expressions, the lights are not all on upstairs. But we're talking Viscounts and Champions – even you can't be caught unawares!"

The Templars started to nod as the idea dawned on them. Meredith smiled. "So prepare for the rite of a lifetime – be prepared for sensational news! A shining new era is tiptoeing nearer –"

"And where do we feature?" asked Cullen, suddenly and indignantly.

"Just listen to teacher," replied Meredith, somewhat patronisingly. The Templars looked a little nervous as they understood the meaning of her words. "I know it sounds sordid, but you'll be rewarded," she urged, "When at last I am given my dues! And injustice deliciously squared –" she thought painfully of her sister – "Be prepared!"

The Templars burst into cheers. One laughed stupidly. "Yeah, we'll be prepared!" he shouted, before pausing. "Er, be prepared for what?"

"For the death of the mages!" cried Meredith, her eyes glowing with malice.

"Why?" asked the same young Templar. "Are they sick?"

Meredith sighed. "No, fool, we're going to kill them! And the Champion, too."

Another Templar piped up. He had a thin, weasel-like face and an equally thin, reedy voice. "Great idea!" he shouted. "Who needs a Champion?"

He and his friend began chanting. "No Champion, no Champion, la-la-la-la-laa-la!"

Meredith clouted them both around the heads. "Idiots! There will be a Champion!"

"Hey, but you said –"

"I will be Viscount!" She turned to the others. "Stick with me," she cried, "And you'll never see a mage again!"

The Templars cheered again, with more vigour – a few started shouting "Long live the Viscount! Long live the Viscount!"

"It's great that we'll soon be a part of an order that's all time adored!" they chanted, in harmony.

Meredith chuckled darkly. "Of course, quid pro quo, you're expected to take certain duties on board." At their worried expressions, she laughed again, more loudly. "The future is littered with prizes! And, though I'm the main addressee, the point I must emphasize is –" she paused for effect, before raging, "You won't get a sniff without me!"

"So prepare for the coup of the century! Be prepared for the murkiest scam!" ordered Meredith, turning away as the Templars harmonised behind her. "Meticulous planning, tenacity spanning -"

"We'll have dust! Lyrium dust! That's a must – endless dust!" cried the Templars as Meredith rubbed her hands in anticipation.

"Decades of denial is simply why I'll be Viscount undisputed, respected, saluted, and seen for the wonder I am!" murmured Meredith to herself, through gritted teeth. She turned back to the gleeful Templars. "Yes, my sword and ambitions are bared – be prepared!"

"Yes, our swords and ambitions are bared – be prepared!" repeated the Templars, before cheering loudly at their Commander – the Commander that would rid Thedas of the evil of magic, and would guarantee them a lifetime supply of the dust.

Meredith grinned evilly. Her plans were unfolding. And no champion of a Fereldan was going to stand in her way.

-0-0-0-0-

Next up - Morrigan won't say she's in love.