I tore them apart not long ago... Isn't it about time for some relief from the pain?

Breogan has done a PHENOMENAL painting for this chapter! Please check out the link on my profile page!

This is a HUGE chapter - sorry about that! I simply couldn't cut it. It's all too important!

I need to give special thanks to those reviewers who have remained at my side through thick and thin:

voltagelisa, zevgirl, tgail73, Kira Kyuu, and naomis8329 - your words with each chapter mean more than I can ever say. I truly adore you all!

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Lisa - The fact that you were willing to even read this huge thing speaks volumes about how amazing you are. Your support is beyond fabulous and I love you SOOO very much!

Thanks to everyone who has read and favorited this story!

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The trip to Denerim proved to be far less treacherous that any of the companions believed it would be. The weather remained fair, and the few bandit ambushes they encountered were quickly dispatched with no loss of life to their caravan. Had it not been for the lingering tension amidst certain members of his inner circle, Eamon would have been thrilled with the journey's progress.

The company was camped in the grasslands of South Reach when disaster nearly struck. It was late in the evening and most of the companions had retired to their tents for the night. Zeva was on watch with Nihlus close by her side when she heard a scuffle coming from inside Leliana's tent. She approached the lodging and called softly, "Leli, is there something wrong?" The only reply came in the form of a small squeal. Instantly on alert, the Warden cautiously pulled open the tent flap and peered inside; not wishing to interrupt a potentially intimate moment. What she saw next nearly stopped her heart.

Three heavily armed men held Leliana's squirming body down on her bedroll while a fourth knelt above her, pressing a knife slowly into the soft skin of her breast.

"We were paid to kill you," he whispered cruelly. "But she never said we couldn't have a little fun with you first; right, boys?"

"I think you may find it a little hard to have that fun without the necessary body parts," Zeva spat as she slid in behind the attacker and placed her knife at the base of his spine. "I need you gentlemen, and I do use that term very loosely, to release my companion and move away from her. You will place your weapons on the ground and surrender to Arl Eamon's guards. Failure to comply in any way with my orders will mean immediate and very painful death. Do we understand each other?"

The obvious leader of the group simply chuckled. "Actually, I think we will be taking you, as well. After all, there's much more fun to be had with two; wouldn't you agree?" Before Zeva could respond, he swung his elbow back and smashed her directly in the face. Zeva cried out as she felt the bone in her nose give way.

Unfortunately for the bandit, his attack didn't unbalance her as much as he may have wished. As she fell back onto the ground, Zeva thrust forward with her dagger; securely planting it in the man's lower back. He screamed and tried to move away, to no avail. The knife had cleanly cut into his spine. He would never attack anyone again.

The attention of the men holding Leliana down was now completely focused on their leader and Zeva, and it gave Leliana the opportunity she needed to act. Yanking her arm from one of the attackers she grabbed a dagger from beneath her pillow and plunged it into the neck of her closest abductor. He fell to the ground and the bard rolled off the bed; just in time for Nihlus to make his way into the tent. Within seconds, a second bandit had fallen to the mabari's powerful jaws. The remaining man surrendered quickly, throwing his weapons away as the first of Eamon's men arrived to check on the noise coming from the tent.

Word of the attack quickly spread throughout the camp and it wasn't long before the entire party had gathered outside the tent to check on the combatants. Duncan arrived to find Morrigan healing Zeva's nose; chiding the Warden as she did so for putting her life in danger for the sake of that 'useless Chantry woman'.

"I should just leave it broken, you know," Morrigan said as she carefully repaired the bone in Zeva's nose. "'Twould teach you a valuable lesson about putting yourself in danger for the sake of such an unworthy individual."

Duncan chuckled as Zeva groaned and rolled her eyes. "First of all, Morrigan," she replied, "Leliana is not unworthy of rescue. Secondly, you would never do that to me. You love me far too much to see me disfigured."

"Bah!" the witch exclaimed, though Zeva could see the laughter in her eyes. "I think not! I simply refuse to leave the only useful Warden in Ferelden in pain."

The banter was interrupted by movement from Leliana's tent. Several of Eamon's men appeared, carrying the paralyzed body of the bandit leader. Zeva waited for Morrigan to finish, then rose and approached the guards.

"Put him down," she ordered and the men quickly complied. "I would speak with this one."

"As would I," Leliana said as she stepped out of her tent and joined Zeva. "I think I may know the reason behind this attack, and I would see if I am correct."

The bandit groaned and stared up at Zeva, his eyes filled with hatred. "I won't tell you nothing," he spat. "I'm no rat."

"How noble of you," Zeva replied, kneeling down before him. She reached around and pulled the dagger from his back, wiping the blood on the sleeve of his armor before putting it away. "However, I would suggest that you reconsider that particular stance. I am no fan of torture, but my friend here is." She jerked her thumb in Sten's direction and smiled cruelly. The bandit looked up at the qunari and began sweating. Sensing the man's unease, Sten drew Asala from her scabbard and begin slowly sharpening her blade.

"Alright, alright," the bandit cried. "I'll tell you everything! Just keep him away from me!" He glanced back and forth between Zeva and Leliana for several seconds before continuing.

"Me and my boys were hired by this lady in Denerim to find and kill the little red-haired wench that was supposed to be traveling with the Grey Wardens," he began. "We heard you were headed this way and thought it would be our best chance to complete the mission." He sighed heavily as he watched his fellow bandit being dragged away in chains. "Guess we were wrong."

"Who was this woman?" Leliana asked quickly. "Did she say why she wanted me dead?"

"I didn't ask why," he replied. "We received our payment through a courier. We were expected to travel back to Denerim when the job was complete. That's all I know."

Zeva glanced at Leliana, her eyebrow raised quizzically. It appeared as though their lovely bard had some explaining to do…

"One last thing," Zeva began. "Where exactly in Denerim were you to go when you had completed your mission?"

The bandit tossed his head toward his pack. "Location is on a note in my things," he explained. "Don't know what you'll find when you get there, though."

"Oh, I know what I'll find," Leliana said as she walked over and began rifling through the pack. She removed a small piece of parchment and placed it down the front of her armor, between her breasts.

"I'll find Marjolain."

o~~~~~~~~o

As the remaining bandit was carried away, Leliana turned from the pack, smiling wanly at Zeva. "I owe you an explanation," she began. "I know I do. I only ask that I be allowed to speak to you and Duncan in private, if you wouldn't mind. I do not wish to share this information with everyone." As she spoke, she glared at Morrigan over Zeva's shoulders.

The witch laughed and turned to walk away. "Your paltry secrets hold no interest for me, stupid girl," she spat. "Unless, of course, they endanger Zeva's life again. Should that become the case, you and I will talk; and it won't go well for you."

"That's one woman I wouldn't want to cross," Oghren said, shaking his head at the departing mage as he took another gulp of liquor from his flask. "Well, if all the violence is over for tonight, I think I'll head back to the 'ole tent. Was having a dream that I am anxious to return to." The dwarf winked at Zeva and strolled away.

Sten turned to leave and Zeva caught him by the arm. "I am sorry to have pulled you into the middle of my discussion with the bandit, Sten," she said softly, "but I appreciate the fact that you went along with it. I certainly didn't mean what I said. I know you aren't the 'torturing' type."

"If you required it, Kadan, I would make an exception," the qunari said, the smallest of smiles playing across his lips. "But only for you." Nodding curtly, he turned and followed Oghren toward their respective tents.

"Let's adjourn to our tent," Duncan said, taking Zeva's hand and smiling kindly at Leliana. "I can't imagine that you are anxious to return to yours after the evening you have had."

"I've had worse," the bard replied sadly and followed the couple across the camp. Once inside their tent, she sat down on the ground and sighed heavily.

"I am so sorry, Zeva," she began. "After all that has happened recently, I can't imagine that you will be happy to learn more secrets about the people in whom you have placed your trust."

The reference to Zevran brought tears to Zeva's eyes and she blinked quickly to keep them at bay. While Duncan missed the action, Leliana did not; and the frown lines on her forehead deepened.

"It's alright, Leli," Zeva replied. "No one in our party is without a past, and I can't imagine that yours is worse than Morrigan's or Sten's. Just tell us whatever you are comfortable sharing. There will be no judgments placed upon you here."

Leliana nodded and drew in a deep breath; releasing it slowly before beginning her tale. "I was trained to be a bard in Orlais," she said. "My mentor was a rich widow named Marjolain. She was my bard master and my… friend, and I loved her very much." Leliana's cheeks burned red as she paused. "I thought she loved me, as well."

Duncan reached over and grasped Leliana's hand in his own. "Go on," he gently urged.

"One of my missions from Marjolain was to locate and kill a potential enemy," she continued, "and I did so without question. She told me that he carried documents on his person that I was to retrieve and immediately bring back to her. My curiosity got the better of me and, against her explicit orders, I opened the letters. I should never have done it."

"What did the letters contain, Leli?" Zeva asked.

"They contained proof that Marjolain had been selling Orlesian secrets to other countries," she answered. "Such behavior was considered treason and would be punished most severely if discovered. I simply couldn't keep silent about what I'd learned. I was worried that Marjolain would be captured and killed if anyone ever found out. So I confronted her about it as soon as I returned home."

The bard's eyes misted over as she paused a moment in her tale. "She assured me that she was no longer in the business of selling governmental secrets and that was why she needed me to retrieve the letters. She said that they had to be destroyed for our protection. I believed her."

"She lied, didn't she?" Zeva prodded. Leliana glanced up and the tears she'd been holding in started sliding down her cheeks.

"Yes," she replied. "A few days after I'd given the letters to Marjolain, several Orlesian soldiers stormed into my home and took me to the castle dungeon. They accused me of treason. When I demanded to see their proof, they showed me the same documents that I'd retrieved for Marjolain. They had been altered to make it appear as though I was the traitor. I recognized the handwriting as belonging to Marjolain and knew she'd betrayed me."

"Oh, Leli," Duncan said, squeezing her hand gently. "I am so sorry."

Leliana's expression was completely blank as she continued her narrative. "They tortured me, did… terrible things… to get me to give them the names of my fellow conspirators," she explained, her voice barely a whisper. "I had no names to give. When they finally realized that I would be unable to help them, they set a date for my execution."

"And that is when you fled to the Chantry in Lothering," Zeva surmised.

"Yes," Leli verified, nodding steadily. "My skills as a bard saved my life, and I was able to escape to Ferelden. I haven't heard from Marjolain since the day of my arrest."

"Then why is she making an attempt on your life now; assuming, of course, that she is the one behind tonight's attack?" Duncan asked.

"I don't doubt for one moment that she is the one responsible," Leliana responded sternly. "And when we get to Denerim, I will end this once and for all. She will answer for everything that she put me through, I promise you."

"Of course she will," Zeva agreed. "And we will be there at your side."

Leliana squeezed Duncan's hand and smiled warmly at the Wardens. "Thank you both so much," she said. "I am sorry that my former life is causing still more grief to this party. Rest assured, it will be dealt with as soon as possible." She rose to her feet. "Now, I should probably return to my tent. We all need rest."

Duncan shook his head as he stood up next to her. "Definitely not," he said. "I have next watch with Alistair. You sleep here with Zeva tonight. I will station extra men outside the tent, just in case your bard master hired more than one group of idiots to try to take you from us."

Duncan bent down and kissed Zeva gently before leaving the tent. When he was gone, Leliana once more returned to the ground at Zeva's side. "Are you sure you don't mind if I sleep here tonight?" the bard asked quietly. "I don't want to intrude."

"You aren't intruding, Leli," Zeva replied, "and Duncan is correct. We don't know if there are other bandits searching for you." The Warden slipped off her armor and climbed under the covers, patting the bed beside her. "Now let's get some sleep. We'll be arriving in Denerim in just a few days, and I have a feeling we will need all our strength for the battles ahead."

Leliana undressed and climbed into the bed. As she lay staring at the darkened canvas above her, the red-headed bard couldn't help but wonder what horrors awaited them all in the capital city.

o~~~~~~~~o

The sky was overcast as Arl Eamon Guerrin and his entourage entered the marketplace in Denerim. Nobles and commoners alike moved aside to allow the enormous group to pass safely through the main thoroughfare. Zeva was tucked in the very center of the group; against her wishes, of course. She'd declared in no uncertain terms that she wished Howe to know she had arrived and that his death was near. She was quickly outvoted by nearly every member of her party and, under extreme pressure from both Alistair and Duncan, she'd relented.

Her position in the group did nothing to distract attention from the beautiful young Warden, however. The Couslands were well known among the nobility of Denerim and news of the fall of Highever had reached every high-born family within days of the attack. Zeva could clearly see the hushed conversations being held on either side of their party as she passed by and the need to reach out and strike one of the nosy gossips was almost too hard to control.

"'Twould be a simple matter for me to light one of their gaudy dresses on fire, you know," Morrigan said casually to Zeva when she noticed the Warden's hands balled into fists at her side. "They're all simply vultures looking to pick over the carcass of someone else's misery. Completely useless - every last one of them."

Zeva chucked. "They may be useless," she began, "but unfortunately we will need all of them if we hope to remove Loghain from the throne. So I suppose Fergus and I will have to get used to listening to fabricated apologies and answering inane questions about the loss of our family."

"Let your foolish sibling deal with them, Zeva," the witch replied seriously. "He is the one still wallowing in misery. His grief will have the half-witted women fawning over him in no time, I'm sure."

"Morrigan!" Zeva whispered angrily. "I know that Fergus and I aren't getting along right now, but that doesn't change the fact that he is my brother. I would ask that you show him just the smallest amount of sympathy. He did lose his wife and child recently, you know."

"Yes, he did," Morrigan responded. "And I might be tempted to show some sympathy if he hadn't begun using his loss as an excuse to abuse the only living relative that he has left. He has treated you like a complete stranger since the night the assassin left and I have seen the effect that it has had on you. If I had my way, I'd turn him into the bug he has become and squash him under my boot. Even the idiot bard has begun to avoid him, and she has been practically throwing herself at him for weeks now."

Zeva stopped, her mouth dropping open at the mage's disclosure. "Leliana?" she asked. "She's interested in Fergus?"

"You know," Morrigan commented as she grabbed Zeva by the arm and pulled her along, "for such an intelligent woman, you can be quite dense. Of course she is interested in him. And when he isn't busy trying to destroy your happiness, he shows the same interest in her." The witch sighed heavily and continued. "Now, I grow very tired to speaking of your worthless brother. Let us speak about you. How are you doing? And don't give me the same nonsense that you thrust upon these other fools. I would have the truth."

"My response to that question depends on when you ask me," Zeva said sadly, her eyes downcast, "as my state of mind changes at least twenty times per day. I don't know if the pain will ever completely go away, Morrigan. Each day I look over my shoulder at least once and expect to see him there, smiling at me. And when I realize that he's gone, the pain returns all over again. Foolish of me to hope to see him, I know, but I cannot stop it."

The smile that spread across Morrigan's face remained unseen by the distraught Warden. "You are many things, Zeva Cousland," she replied, "but foolish is not one of them. One never knows what the future will bring and hope isn't always dashed. Now raise that chin of yours and hold you head high before these noble cretins. No need to give them even more grist for their gossip mills."

Zeva smiled and gazed over at her friend as they passed through the gates onto the Guerrin estate. "Optimism, from you?" Zeva mused. "It's truly a day for wonders."

It was Morrigan's turn to chuckle. "Something tells me that the many wonders of Denerim are only beginning," she replied. The women fell into companionable silence as the gates of the estate closed behind the entourage.

In the courtyard, three separate spies vanished into nearby alleyways; all headed to their respective masters. Zeva Cousland was in Denerim at last and her arrival was certain to change everything.

o~~~~~~~~o

"…and he told my men in no uncertain terms that they would be killed if they continued to loiter on his doorstep."

Cauthrien caught the last of Ambassador Lawrence's complaint as she stepped through the doors of the throne room. The dignitary had been assigned to broker a peace between the regent and Orzammar; and from the sound of things, it hadn't gone well.

"Foolish dwarves!" Loghain yelled as he slammed his hand on his war table. "Don't they realize that the darkspawn will not be satisfied with mere human victims? They will come for their homes, as well!" Cauthrien sighed sadly as she stared up at her lord. His physical condition seemed to be deteriorating with each passing day. Sleep was a thing of the past, and the constant warring with the bannorns was clearly taking its toll.

"They do realize it, Milord," Lawrence stated plainly. "I received a personal message from King Harrowmont about the situation. He has agreed to lend support in the fight against the darkspawn, but only to Lady Zeva Cousland and the Wardens. He said as long as you remain in control of Ferelden, the gates to his city will remain closed to all."

The Cousland girl is truly extraordinary, Loghain thought, shaking his head in disbelief. He'd heard the same message wherever his emissaries went. No one - not the mages, the elves, or the dwarves - would agree to lend any aid to the war against the darkspawn unless they could coordinate their efforts with Zeva and her companions. I must convince her to ally herself with me!

Loghain caught sight of Cauthrien and turned to the flustered ambassador. "You can go now, Lawrence," he said irritably. "I have other pressing matters to attend to. Keep sending treaty notices to Orzammar. Maybe the fools will get tired of reading them and sign one in an attempt to get us to go away." The ambassador bowed politely and quickly exited the chamber.

"Tell me you have good news, Cauthrien," Loghain said as he approached the throne and sat down upon it. "I grow tired of hearing the words 'I'm sorry, Milord' spoken from every useless mouth that enters this chamber."

Cauthrien smiled softly. "Then you shall be pleased with the words I speak, Regent," she began. "She is here, Milord."

For the first time in weeks, light returned to Loghain's weary eyes. "Zeva is here?" he asked excitedly. "In Denerim? When did this happen? What did our men see?"

The female soldier flinched, pangs of jealousy spreading through her chest at the joyful way her master spoke the Cousland woman's name. Then, remembering her place, she resumed her soldier's posture and continued, "Arl Eamon Guerrin and his soldiers arrived in Denerim a little over two hours ago, Milord. They went directly to the Guerrin estate, closing the gates behind them. There has been no change in their activities since."

"And what of Zeva?" Loghain asked, the strength slowly returning to his voice. "Did our men see her, specifically?"

Cauthrien nodded. "Yes, Milord," she replied. "Zeva Cousland was among the travelers. She was positioned in the very center of her companions. My contacts felt that she was being protected from some potential threat."

"Howe." The regent spit the name out as though it were poison on his tongue. "I assume he is aware of her arrival. That maniac has nearly as many eyes in this city as I have."

"I am certain that he will know soon, Milord, if he doesn't already," Cauthrien agreed. "I doubled the security watch on both his and Guerrin's estates as you'd previously requested. When Arl Howe makes an attempt to capture the Cousland girl, we will know about it immediately."

"We must know immediately, Cauthrien," Loghain said earnestly. "My plans for Zeva hinge on the ability to react when Howe moves to take her. I will not allow that insane monster to complete whatever nefarious plans he's set in motion where she is concerned. Have I made myself clear?"

"Of course, Milord," Cauthrien quickly replied, bowing respectfully before her regent. "If there is nothing else, Milord, I should return to my men. I know how important this mission is to you and I am handling it personally."

Loghain held up his hand to halt his lieutenant's departure. "There is one more thing, Cauthrien," he began. "Something our men should know before they enter Howe's estate; should such a move become necessary, of course."

Cauthrien nodded her acknowledgment and he continued, "I am sure you have wondered why you haven't seen Anora stalking the halls in a huff recently." Cauthrien remained silent. It wasn't her place to question the actions of the queen. Furthermore, she tried to avoid the spoiled woman whenever possible. Anora had made her dislike of her father's lieutenant clear on numerous occasions. "Well, her absence is completely my doing. I grew quite tired of having her question my every move, so I instructed Howe to take her to his home for a small respite from her duties."

Cauthrien could not contain her shock, and her jaw dropped nearly to her chest. "You let him take her, Milord?" she asked in disbelief. "But you said yourself that Howe is clearly insane! He cannot be trusted to watch over the queen? What if he… I mean… couldn't he…?"

"Stop stuttering, Cauthrien!" Loghain insisted, shaking his head at her in irritation. "Howe will not do anything to Anora. His insanity begins and ends with Zeva Cousland. Anora was becoming a problem, and he was the solution. This way he thinks that he is still in my good graces. I need to be able to keep an eye on him if I am to learn of his plans for Zeva."

Zeva, Zeva, Zeva! Cauthrien thought furiously. Maker, I am tired of hearing that woman's name! For the first time since Ostagar, the lieutenant began to wonder if her commander wasn't becoming unstable, himself. He was using every ounce of energy to keep the Cousland woman from falling under Howe's control, yet he handed his own daughter over to that very same monster without a second thought!

"Is there a problem, Cauthrien?" Loghain asked warily. The lieutenant looked up and instantly recognized the distrust in the regent's eyes. Quickly regaining her composure, she shook her head slowly.

"No, Milord, no problems," she replied, her stomach now churning with unease. "I was just wondering what I should tell our men about the queen, should they find her in Howe's home."

"Tell them to leave her wherever they find her," he replied. "We have a very important Landsmeet coming up and I don't want Anora to be running throughout the nobles, claiming that I killed her useless husband on purpose at Ostagar. Once I have solidified my position as regent, I will deal with my daughter as I see fit. Understood?"

Cauthrien bowed once more, wanting to avoid having to look Loghain in the eyes. "Yes, Milord, I understand," she said with a confidence that she no longer felt. "Is there anything else, Milord? I really do need to return to my men."

"No, nothing else," Loghain said, dismissing her with a wave of his hand. He barely noticed her departure. His mind was now solely focused on his plans for Zeva…

o~~~~~~~~o

Reginald rushed through the halls of the estate, looking for his missing master. Arl Howe's spy had just returned with tales of the Lady Zeva's arrival and the administrator could barely wait to share the news with the Arl. Maker knew they needed some peace in the household, and the information regarding Zeva would finally give his master, and the people who served beneath him, a reason to celebrate.

He located Howe in the room he'd had prepared for his missing love; arguing with a decorator over the color of the tapestries to be hung near the bed. He looked up from the fabric samples when Reginald entered the room, motioning the administrator forward with a wave of his hand.

"Tell me what you think, Reginald," he said quickly, shaking his head in frustration. "Do you think Lady Zeva would prefer the sapphire or the violet cloth for her bedroom decorations?"

Hastings fought the urge to roll his eyes and feigned interest in Howe's dilemma. "You have often spoken of Lady Zeva's lovely blue eyes, Milord," he began. "I think she would be most pleased to have decorations that match them."

"Brilliant, Reginald!" Howe replied, clapping the administrator on the shoulder. "Simply brilliant! Sapphire it is, then! I will not have my betrothed displeased with her surroundings."

"Speaking of Lady Zeva," Reginald said, smiling warmly at his master. "I thought you would want to know that she arrived in Denerim less than two hours ago."

Howe's jaw dropped and his eyes flew open wide. "She did?" he asked, his voice several octaves higher than usual. "Are you sure, Reginald? I would be most displeased to learn that this information was incorrect."

"It is true, Milord," Reginald replied. "I knew you would be anxious to have the sighting verified, so I sent several of our men into the streets to question the locals. Five returned with confirmation of Lady Zeva's location. She is currently housed in the estate of Arl Eamon Guerrin."

With that filthy Warden Commander, no doubt, Howe thought angrily. Well, we will soon change that circumstance, won't we?

"Come with me, Reginald," the Arl commanded, rushing down the hallway toward his office. Once inside, Howe closed the door behind his administrator and approached his desk. "I have been planning for this moment for months; and now that it is finally upon me, I hardly know where to begin."

Hastings cleared his throat and stood rigidly before his master. One wrong move at this point could easily cost him his life. "Our informants reported seeing Lady Zeva's brother among the new arrivals, my Arl," he began, "while the Antivan elf was nowhere to be seen. This information would indicate that Arlessa Guerrin's letter to the Teyrn of Highever was received favorably, and the filthy assassin was removed from your betrothed's side. If such is the case, would it not be beneficial to instruct the Arlessa to write another letter to the new teyrn? A letter that would lead him somewhere in Denerim, where he could be captured and brought to your home?"

A vicious smile slowly spread across Howe's face. "You have been listening to my instructions, haven't you, Reginald?" he asked, tapping his finger on the top of his desk. "I see where your plan is headed. Surely once my beloved Zeva learns that her brother has taken up residence here, she will wish to join him."

Howe walked around his desk, the details of the plan forming in his mind. "Yes, Reginald," he said, nodding his head thoughtfully, "I do believe you have touched on the perfect way to insure that my darling Zeva will finally return to my arms. Have the men prepare the prisoner for a visit. The desk and writing utensils should be moved into her cell, as well. The Arlessa has one final letter to write."

"If I might ask, Milord," Reginald began. "What will you do with Arlessa Guerrin once she has finished this final missive? Surely she will be of no further use to you?" He'd heard the screams coming from the dungeon and knew the woman would be better off dead than forced to remain within the bowels of Howe's home.

"That is where you are wrong, Reginald," Howe replied. "Arlessa Guerrin has one more task to perform beyond her letter. I would have her meet with Zeva before she is released from her bondage. She owes my beloved an apology." He paused a moment and looked up at his manservant. When his gaze met Reginald's, the administrator felt his blood turn to ice. "And a demonstration of my power within this house can only be beneficial to the future of my marriage; wouldn't you agree?"

"Of course, Milord," Reginald answered. He bowed respectfully and exited the room. Once in the hallway, he stopped and leaned against the nearest wall; waves of nausea threatening to overcome him. In an unprecedented move, he looked toward the heavens and closed his eyes.

Maker, please help Zeva Cousland when she enters this house, he prayed. I fear she will need it.

o~~~~~~~~o

The last of the three spies stepped through the front door of an abandoned warehouse in the slums of the capital city. After passing by several armed guards, he entered a locked room in the back of the building.

"The information we intercepted from the witch's courier was correct," he told the lone occupant of the room. "The Wardens are here, and the Cousland woman is with them."

His companion looked up from sharpening his blades, a wicked smile on his face. "Excellent work, Alonzo," he said, his thickly accented voice tinged with malice. "Place our men on guard outside the target's location. We strike at the earliest possible opportunity. She will not escape me again."

Unbeknownst to both Morrigan and Zeva, this particular murderer had been following their trail around Ferelden for months, but thus far had been unable to catch up to the party. Now that he had the Wardens in sight, he wouldn't miss the chance to destroy his quarry again.

Alonzo shifted uneasily. Though he trusted his leader with his life, he didn't understand the man's obsession with killing the beautiful Warden. As far as he knew, she'd done nothing to deserve such hate.

"Is there a problem, Alonzo?" the man asked, staring up at the informer with suspicion.

"Not really a problem," Alonzo answered. "Just a question, if I may. You know I would follow you into any battle, but why do you want to kill this woman so badly? You know we'll be killed by the Crow masters for betraying a contract this way. What can possibly be so important about one Warden?"

"It's quite simple, my friend," his companion replied. "She took something of great value from me, and I intend to see that she pays the ultimate price for her thievery."

"Okay," Alonzo said, shaking his head. Though the explanation was hardly complete, he knew not to pry further into his leader's intentions. "I'll send the men. They'll let us know the minute Zeva Cousland leaves the estate." A curt nod was the only response he received. With a weary sigh he turned and exited the room.

As soon as the door shut, the Crow stopped sharpening his daggers and folded his hands on the table. He'd managed to remain impassive in front of Alonzo; but now that he was alone, he could release the emotions he'd been holding inside.

Zeva Cousland was in Denerim and he would soon meet her face to face. And when he did, Taliesin would make her suffer for ruining the life of his closest friend and brother.

It must be done, Zevran, he thought wistfully. When she is gone, you can finally come home…

o~~~~~~~~o

Zeva was passing by the front door of Eamon's estate, heading toward her bedroom, when she spotted Morrigan exiting the building.

"You aren't going out tonight, are you, Morrigan?" she asked as she approached the witch. "Denerim's streets won't be any safer for you than they would be for me; particularly at night."

"As a matter of fact," Morrigan replied casually, "I am headed out for a while. Being trapped in this house is almost as bad as the attacks I am risking by exiting its doors."

Zeva could sympathize with Morrigan's frustration. She'd felt the same since they'd arrived in Denerim the previous day. Howe was somewhere in the city, imagining himself to be safe from an attack. Yet when she'd suggested taking the fight directly to the Arl, everyone but Fergus had argued against the action. So now she was forced to remain behind steel gates, kept from seeking revenge against the man who'd destroyed her life. The inability to act on her desires was almost maddening.

Morrigan chuckled, breaking Zeva's reverie. "I imagine you are wishing that you, too, could become a creature of the night," she said. "'Twould make seeking your revenge so much easier."

"You have no idea how right you are," the Warden replied, shaking her head in disgust. "And I have no right to insist that you stay locked away with me. Just be careful, would you? I don't want to see you get hurt."

"Always thinking of others before yourself," Morrigan commented, shaking her head. "I have yet to decide if such behavior is noble of simply foolish. In your case, unlike most other people I have met, I am tempted to choose the former." She placed a hand on Zeva's arm and squeezed lightly. "I will follow your advice, Zeva. I've no idea where my nocturnal wanderings will lead, but I promise to keep a careful watch for any potential dangers. And, as my avian form allows me to remain far above the eyes of any soldiers, I will make a pass over the Arl of Denerim's home and get a better idea of his security. Someone must set your plans for his downfall in motion, as the other members of your party seem happy to remain complete ignorant of the desperation you feel."

Zeva smiled and covered the witch's hand with her own. "You have my thanks, my friend," she said softly. "You can tell me all about your adventures in the morning. Please be careful."

"I will," Morrigan answered, stepping through the door into the moonless Denerim night. Zeva watched in awe as she stepped into the courtyard, her body bathed in a pale blue light. When she was only feet from the front gates, she suddenly vanished; and a large black raven flew silently into the sky, toward the shimmering lights of the marketplace.

In truth, Morrigan knew exactly where she was headed. She and Zevran had arranged to meet in Denerim's most infamous whorehouse, The Pearl. There they would remain undetected from the Warden's companions as they finalized their plans for Zeva's rescue. The mage knew it was only a matter of time before Zeva grew tired of bowing to the demands of the men in her life and struck out into the city. And when that time finally came, they had to be ready to act.

o~~~~~~~~o

Zevran stepped through the doors of The Pearl, its familiar sights and sounds bringing him the first semblance of peace he'd had since leaving Redcliffe. He'd followed the army closely for several days, his gaze never leaving Zeva; the words he'd overheard by the castle lake playing over and over again in his head. His heart soared to know that she missed him so desperately, yet the actions he was forced to take to insure his reunion with her cast a dark cloud over his joy. If the assassin reached her and he wasn't there…

"Zevran!" Sanga, The Pearl's owner, called happily as she stepped across the crowded room and stopped before him. "It has been far too long since you graced us with your presence. What can I get for you tonight – women, men, both?"

"Sanga, my dearest lady," Zevran replied, taking the proprietor's hand and placing a gentle kiss on her knuckles, "I am so very glad to be back, believe me. However, I am not looking for company this evening. Only a room, if I may."

It took the shocked woman a moment to reply. "Just a room?" she asked. "Well… alright. If that is what you want. It will cost you 20 silvers up front." She winked and nudged him with her elbow. "And should you change your mind about that company, I will give you the preferred rate, of course." Sanga walked over to the nearby bar and pulled a key from under the oaken top. "I've given you the room furthest from the door, honey. I know how much you value your privacy."

"Thank you, my dear Sanga," Zevran replied, bowing politely before her. "Now, more than ever, privacy is essential." A familiar and normally stirring voice spoke out to his left as he began to turn around.

"Zevran Arainai," a beautiful woman with dark skin and even darker eyes purred into his ear. "I know it must be you, as I would recognize your rather delicious bum anywhere. However, I think I may have just heard you turn down an offer of company tonight. The lascivious assassin I know would never do such a thing. Care to explain?"

A wry smile spread across Zevran's face as he turned toward the new arrival. "Isabela, my dearest," he said as he took her hand and kissed her palm. "It is positively divine to see you again. I see the death of your recently departed husband hasn't left you completely bereft. How is life as a pirate queen?"

"Positively wonderful, though I am quite cross with you," Isabela replied. "You left me all alone to pick up the pieces of that particular mess. How could you?"

Zevran chuckled. "It was strictly business, my dear, as you know," he said, winking at her. Though he was pleased to see a familiar face, he knew he needed to get to his room to await Morrigan's arrival. There was much planning yet to be done. "I hate to cut this short, but I really must get settled in my room."

A confused look passed over the pirate's face before she once again turned on her immeasurable charm. "Are you certain that you want to stay all alone in that room, Zev?" she asked quietly, running her hand down his arm. "I think I may still owe you for relieving me of that insufferable lout, and I would be happy to make a payment tonight." Her eyes widened when Zevran quickly pulled away and stepped back several feet.

"I am certain, Isabela," he said curtly. "Now if you will excuse me…"

"No, I won't," she interrupted and it was Zevran's turn to look surprised. "Something is wrong, Zevran, and I would know what it is so that I can help you. I certainly owe you that much." She turned and pulled a bottle of wine from behind the bar. "Add this to my bill, Sanga," she called as she pulled Zevran toward the back of the building.

They arrived at Zevran's room and he unlocked the door. Isabela brushed past him as he entered and took a seat at a nearby table. She crossed her arms over her chest and indicated the chair nearest hers with a toss of her head. "Now, Zevran," she said sternly, "you will sit here and tell me what has happened to you to make you so obviously nervous. And then we will decide what to do about it together."

Zevran sighed heavily, opened a nearby window and then dropped down into his seat. He remained silent for several moments, contemplating just how much information would be safe to tell. He didn't want to endanger Zeva further, but Isabela was an amazing fighter. She could be useful.

"Do you remember the mission I accepted that pulled me from Antiva?" he asked. "The one I was to begin once my task for you was done?"

"Yes," she replied. "I remember. It had something to do with an attack on some lord's estate. You and Taliesin seemed quite confident in your ability to successfully complete it. Did something go wrong?"

"In retrospect, my dearest Isabela," Zevran answered, "everything went wrong. We helped our client to enter and capture the estate, just as we were ordered. However, there was a complication; at least for me." He looked away, visions of Zeva's agonized expression when she confronted him in the courtyard filling his mind.

"Complication?" Isabela asked, her concern for the elf growing as she saw the pain in his eyes. "What sort of complication, Zevran?"

Zevran sighed. Though he'd come to terms with his feelings for Zeva, he wasn't sure how he felt about speaking them aloud. When he finally began, his words were rushed and his phrases disjointed. "The family whose estate we captured was tortured and killed – by the client, not the Crows. Only two remain – a brother and sister. The man is of no consequence to me, but the woman… she is…" He stopped as his voice began to lose its strength.

Isabela's jaw dropped toward her ample bosom. She'd seen this look on men's faces many times before and she instantly recognized it. "Maker, Zevran," she whispered, shaking her head in disbelief. "You love this woman, don't you?"

The assassin nodded, his eyes downcast. "Yes, Izzy," he said sadly, "I do. I never thought I would ever feel this way, but she is unlike any woman I have ever known. When I am with her, my life is complete; my heart is at peace." He looked up at her and smiled. "And now that I've found the woman that I would give my life for, what has fate decreed for me? She belongs to another, at least for now, and will never leave him. How foolish does that make me?"

Isabela reached across the table and grasped Zevran's hand tightly in her own. There was a time when she had hoped that the assassin might feel this way about her, but he never had. Now she could only return the compassion he'd once shown her. "You'd better start at the beginning, Zevran," she said quietly. "I'll need to know everything if I am to help you."

Before he could respond, a raven flew into the room and settled in the middle of floor; a blue glow emanating from its body. Isabela looked down in shock and prepared to draw her blades. Zevran squeezed her hand and shook his head to keep her still. Within seconds, a beautiful, dark-haired mage stood before the pirate; her hands on her hips.

"You might wish to make the story short, assassin, as we have much work to do," Morrigan said. "I've just spoken with Zeva and her desire to flee that horrible estate is growing by the minute. I would give her until tomorrow night before she tells those fools who wish to cage her to stuff themselves and flees into the streets. We must be prepared for that moment, as I am certain the renegade Crow will be right behind her."

"Wait!" Isabela said, holding up her hand. "Renegade Crows? Estate? What is going on, Zevran?"

As Morrigan took a seat on Zevran's bed, the assassin turned to Isabela and began the tale of his time with his beloved Grey Warden and his plan for winning her back.

o~~~~~~~~o

Morrigan was completely correct in her prediction. There was a furious argument in Arl Eamon's estate the next afternoon, though the individual raising the fuss wasn't Zeva. It was Leliana.

"I am sorry, Duncan," the bard said as she paced the library. "I know we need to remain vigilant for possible attacks against Zeva and Fergus from Rendon Howe, but I cannot stay in this house one moment more. Marjolain is here in Denerim and if I am to ever be free again, I must face her and end her evil actions once and for all."

"I understand, Leli," the Warden replied. "Really I do. This woman tried to kill you and you have every right to demand justice. I only ask that you wait a few more days, until the last of the noble houses have visited Eamon and Alistair. Once they have gone, we can accompany you to deal with your former comrade."

Leliana shook her head furiously. "No, Duncan," she replied angrily. "I am sorry. If I wait much longer, she may be gone and I cannot allow that to happen. I know that you cannot accompany me, and that is fine. I will deal with Marjolain myself and return when it is done."

"You will not!" Zeva exclaimed as she stepped into the room, followed closely by Morrigan, Sten and Fergus. The siblings hadn't reconciled, but the distance between them was ignored whenever duty to Eamon or their friends called. Such was the Cousland way, after all. "I will not have you roaming the streets of Denerim alone when there are so many here who can accompany you. Therefore, I will go with you to confront Marjolain."

Duncan quickly crossed the room and took Zeva's arms in his hands. "I don't think you will, Zeva," he declared sternly. "Neither you nor Fergus should step foot outside this estate with less than a full regiment of soldiers, and you know it! Howe controls Denerim and the troops within its walls. I cannot allow you to put yourself in danger, even to help Leliana."

"Allow me?" Zeva replied, her anger rising. "I don't think it is your place to allow me to do anything, Duncan. I have been pacing these halls for days now, begging you to allow me to confront Howe and take revenge for my family. And every time I ask, I hear the same excuses about Eamon, his bloody nobles and concerns for my safety."

The look of pain in his eyes made Zeva soften her tone. "I am sorry that I became so angry, my love," she said quietly. "I know that you are only trying to protect me. It's just that I feel trapped here. I need to do something to prove that I am the one in control of my life – not Rendon Howe. If I cannot face the demons in my life yet, at least let me help Leliana face hers."

Duncan slid his arms around Zeva's waist and held her tightly to his body. "I know you wish to go, Zeva, but I cannot join you right now," he said sadly. "Eamon has planned meetings all day and into the evening with the heads of several noble houses here in Denerim. As Warden Commander of Ferelden, I must attend; and I'm simply not comfortable with the idea of you traveling the streets without me to guard you."

"I'll go," Fergus said and all eyes turned in shock toward the teyrn. "I planned to offer my aid to Leliana, anyway." He approached the embracing couple and gazed steadily at the Warden Commander. "Zeva and I spent much of our childhood here in Denerim and we know the alleyways as well as we did the halls of our home in Highever. If we are cautious and wait until sundown, none of Howe's men will have the slightest inkling that we have left the safety of the estate."

"I shall go, as well," Morrigan declared. "They will need a mage, and I don't trust that old hag to heal a puppy with a thorn in its paw." She inclined her head toward Sten and raised her eyebrow. "If the qunari agrees to come along, as well as that mangy dog, we should be well-equipped to handle whatever dangers Denerim has to offer."

Duncan glanced down at Zeva and saw the hope in her eyes. She'd been so distraught since Zevran's departure and he knew she needed some time away from the politics of the mansion. Sighing heavily, he nodded his head.

"Fine," he said. "You have officially defeated me, my love." Bending down, he placed a gentle kiss upon her lips. "If you swear to me that you will not confront any of Howe's men, I will agree to this plan. However, I do have one request. Take Oghren with you, as well. He loves a good fight, and he has the strength and talent of ten of Eamon's men combined."

"I will take Oghren," Zeva agreed, "providing he is fit to stand. He has been making trips to the wine cellar ever since we arrived."

"He'll be fit," Duncan said. "Now, while the rest of your cohorts prepare for the evening, can I steal you away for a while to meet a few of these fawning noble women? Alistair could certainly use the support."

"If I must," Zeva replied, hugging Duncan tightly before heading toward the hallway. As she stepped through the door, she turned back to Leliana. "You know, we didn't even ask if this plan worked for you. Does it?"

Leliana smiled warmly at her. "You want to help me, Zeva," she said happily. "I never imagined that I would be fighting this battle with friends at my side. How can I refuse?"

"None of us need ever be alone again, Leli," Zeva said as she winked at the bard and closed the library door.

Morrigan left the room shortly after Zeva and used the window in her suite to escape into the Denerim skies. The time had come to put her plans into motion, and the assassin had to be ready…

o~~~~~~~~o

"I hate that I have to sneak about like a common thief," Zeva whispered as the party exited Arl Eamon's grounds through a tunnel built under the main house. The locked steel door at the end of the tunnel opened into one of Denerim's many alleyways. "Howe is the criminal, not me. Yet he has free reign to walk through the city without fear of attack. It's unconscionable!"

"He will pay soon enough, Zeva," Leliana replied, brushing the cobwebs from her hair. "You know that. And when he does, you will never have to hide again."

Fergus stepped toward the two women and spoke to the bard. "Let me see that address again, Leli, if you please," he said politely. He needed to focus on the mission at hand; if only to keep his mind from the revenge he so desperately needed. Though he was still estranged from his sister, he could understand her frustration. Howe was so close, and yet so far away.

Leliana handed the parchment to Fergus and he examined the address before glancing up and down the alley. He indicated a passage to their right with a toss of his head. "That's the way we want to go. Don't you agree, Zee Zee?" He flinched as he looked at his sibling and saw the pain in her eyes. He shouldn't have used her nickname; not now.

Zeva looked down at the paper in his hand and nodded. "You are right, Fergus," she replied. "Let's get moving. I am anxious to meet this former comrade of yours, Leliana." No one but Zeva and Duncan knew of Marjolain's true identity, and the lovers had made a conscious effort to avoid using her title as Leli's bard master.

The group proceeded quickly through a series of darkened alleys. Fergus and Zeva led the group with Leliana close behind them. Nihlus ran ahead of Zeva, checking each darkened corner as though he knew the danger his mistress faced by traveling through the city. Sten, Morrigan and Oghren brought up the rear, the dwarf surprising everyone by his ability to remain upright and quiet despite the amount of alcohol in his system.

Fergus stopped at the entrance to a large courtyard and turned to Leliana. "The house we are looking for should be just on the other side of this area," he explained. "I suggest we spread out as we enter. Bandits often house their headquarters in the abandoned buildings of this sector." He looked back at Oghren and Sten. "Stay close to Zeva," he ordered. "Howe may have hired some of the local rabble to keep an eye out of her." Both men nodded in agreement and the group slowly entered the quiet street, weapons drawn and held at the ready.

The group was half way to the exit when the gates at either end dropped down. Nihlus moved toward a set of steep stairs, his hackles raised and teeth bore. Zeva followed behind him and glanced up; her mouth opening in surprise as she beheld the group on the landing above her. Standing on the top step, a malicious grin plastered on his face, was the man Zeva fought in the Circle Tower; deep within Zevran's dream.

"At last we meet, my dear Grey Warden," the stranger said, his voice reminding Zeva so much of her missing elf. "I have been anxiously anticipating this moment."

"Who are you and what do you want with Zeva?" Leliana demanded, her hands flexing around the hilts of her daggers.

Before the attacker could reply Zeva spoke, "He is an Antivan Crow, Leli. No doubt sent by Rendon Howe to retrieve 'his beloved Zeva' and bring me to his estate."

"Yes and no, my dear," the assassin replied. "My name is Taliesin and I am indeed a member of the Antivan Crows. However, my business with you has nothing to do with Rendon Howe. My masters have cancelled their contract with him in favor of a better deal." In the back of the group, Morrigan's hands began to glow. She would not, under any circumstances, allow this foolish murderer to reveal Flemeth's arrangement with his organization.

"Then to what do I owe the honor of this visit, if you aren't acting at the behest of the Arl of Denerim?" Zeva asked, though she feared that she may already know the answer to her question.

Taliesin stared silently at Zeva for several minutes before he replied. The Cousland woman was indeed breathtaking. It came as no surprise that Zevran would desire her. Under other circumstances, he knew he would have felt the same. Unfortunately, her beauty did not change the fact that she was a danger to his friend; and for that, he would see her dead.

"It is simple, Warden," he said with a shrug of his shoulders. "You took something of great value from me and I intend to see that you pay for that crime."

Zeva's eyes flashed with fury as she slowly approached the staircase. "I took something from you?" she cried angrily. "How dare you even speak of such things? You and your companions entered my home and opened its doors to a group of sadistic soldiers who proceeded to torture and kill everyone I ever loved! And you did it all for coin! What could I have possibly taken from you that would equal that?"

Taliesin's own anger grew as he stared down at the defiant young woman and he had to pause a moment before he could regain the control he needed to meet her challenge. "You know exactly what you took from me, you deceitful witch," he spat through clenched teeth. "You stole my closest friend and brother-in-arms; the only person I ever trusted with my life." He drew in a shaky breath to steady himself. "You took Zevran."

Of all the things Zeva expected to hear from the assassin, this was not one of them. To hide her shock, she put forth a confident expression and swept her arms toward her companions. "Look around, assassin," she retorted. "You don't see him here, do you? That's because the deceiver, Zevran Arainai, is no longer with me. I suggest you look elsewhere, for you will never find him here."

In a completely unexpected move, the Crow began to chuckle. "Ahh, Zevran," he said quietly. "He truly is cursed when it comes to women. He traveled to a foreign land in an attempt to make amends for the crimes he felt he'd committed against a beautiful stranger. And when he finally finds the one who captured his heart, she learns of his mistakes and sends him away. It would make a marvelous plot for a tragic play; wouldn't you agree, Zeva?"

Zeva's eyes widened as his words began to register. "Make amends?" she asked, her voice shaking slightly. "What are you talking about?"

"Oh, my," Taliesin replied, shaking his head slowly. "He never told you, did he? Well, I suppose I should explain things before we finish our time together." He motioned for his men to lower their weapons and sat down, his back against a nearby wall.

"I've known Zevran since we were small children. There has never been a more talented assassin within the ranks of the Crows; in my opinion, of course," Taliesin began. "He had the ability to become a master, himself, one day. All that changed on the day we entered your cursed home."

As though he was speaking of the weather, the Crow casually continued, "The mission went exactly as planned and it appeared to be a complete success. Then, as he was battling one of your guards, Zevran spotted the painting in your great hall. He didn't think I noticed it, but I did. From the moment he spied that painting, he was never the same."

"Painting?" Fergus interrupted. "You mean the one of the family?"

"Exactly," Taliesin said. "Howe was adamant that we stay away from your family during the mission, and our people never came near you or knew anything that was happening. Though Zevran expressed concerns before the attack about Howe's final plans, we knew it wasn't our place to question the client. So that painting was the first glimpse any of us got of the people who lived in the house.

Following Highever," Taliesin continued, "Zevran began accepting missions that most Crows wouldn't touch; due to their danger and slim chance of success. And one by one, he completed them. When he placed a bid on the contract to kill and capture the famed Grey Wardens, his goal became clear to me."

Zeva's eyes filled with tears as she listened to his tale. She knew where it was headed, but she still needed confirmation. "What was the goal, Taliesin?"

"You know what it was, Warden," he replied sadly. "I see it in your eyes. Zevran wanted to die. My friend, my brother, abandoned his fellows and chased after the woman he saw in that painting; hoping that his death would atone for whatever wrong befell her. He gave up everything for you, and I would see his sacrifice avenged."

Taliesin rose from the ground and once more unsheathed his blades. "So, now you see the truth of it, Warden," he said. "You must die so that your hold on Zevran can finally be broken. I will find him someday and bring him home, but I can't hope to succeed as long as you live. So let us finish this so that my search for him can begin."

Zeva was raising her blades when Fergus stepped in front of her, his sword and shield at the ready. "I think not, murderer," he declared. "If you seek my sister's life, you will have to take mine first."

"Take your sister and step away from the stairs, please, Teyrn Cousland." Zeva's heart raced in her chest at the sound of the familiar honeyed tones. She quickly turned from Taliesin and watched Zevran approach from a nearby darkened alcove. "This fight is mine alone."

Taliesin looked down upon his former companion, a small smile curving his lips. "I knew you'd be here somewhere, Zevran," he said. "Your obsession with her would demand it. Let us finish this together, then. Stand with me against the Warden and her companions and I will see that you are accepted back into the Crows. It can be as it was before. You can have your life back."

Zevran was now close enough to touch. Though he never looked her way, Zeva knew that he was well aware of her proximity to him. Not wanting to distract him during his confrontation with Taliesin, she grabbed Fergus by the arm and gently pulled him away from the stairs.

"What I had was not a life, Taliesin," Zevran stated. "It was a prison. Since joining with the Wardens, I have learned what it means to truly live…" He paused a moment and Zeva saw his gaze shift in her direction, though he didn't turn his head.

"…and love," he finished. "No matter what my future may hold, I know it does not include the Antivan Crows. As for killing the Warden and her companions, that is something that I cannot allow, my friend. The world would be a dark place, indeed, without her."

"You'll see, Zevran," Taliesin said as he motioned to his men to once more raise their weapons. "When she is gone, you will finally be free." He glared hatefully at Zeva as he gave the command to attack. "Zevran is mine! Let none of the others live to see tomorrow, men!"

The sound of clashing swords filled the air as Crows dropped from the rooftops of the nearby houses. Sten cut a quick swath through several of the assassins, relieving them of legs, arms, and heads on his journey to reach Zeva's side. Once there, he took Zevran's usual position at her back. The duo, though quite different in size, made a formidable pair. Sten would call out an attack and Zeva would duck, allowing him to spin Asala in a wide circle around them; cutting down their foes.

Morrigan concentrated her energy on igniting the bodies of the archers on nearby rooftops, while Leliana and Fergus focused on the stealthier opponents. The teyrn would throw his attackers toward the bard using his shield and Leliana would quickly sever the tendons in their lower legs. The duo could then take their time dispatching the assassins.

Oghren found his perfect fighting companion in Nihlus. He and the mabari raced to the far side of the courtyard, engaging the Crow mages in battle. Nihlus threw himself upon the lightly armed assassins, his powerful jaws making short work of their casting hands. The dwarf followed close behind and removed the offending appendages before the mages had a chance to recover. Any who survived the massive beast's attacks would quickly fall to the blade of Oghren's battleaxe.

Unknown to Zeva's party, another combatant stood on a nearby roof; her arrows cleaning slicing through the Crow's throats. Isabela had offered to join Zevran on the ground for his battle against Taliesin, and he had politely declined. Now, seeing the beautiful woman that so enraptured her former lover, she understood his reasons. Despite the fact that the Warden belonged to another, Zevran didn't want her to mistake Isabela's current relationship with him. It would make any possible reunion far more complicated than it needed to be. So, until such time as she might be needed, the pirate queen did something she'd never done before. She aided someone without the least bit of recognition.

In the center of the fray, Zevran and Taliesin circled each other, their fighting styles nearly identical. Anyone viewing their battle would have a difficult time focusing on the daggers that whirled and thrust with amazing speed. Each man bore the cuts of the other's blades and blood dripped on the ground around them.

"You don't have to protect her anymore, Zev," Taliesin said as he drove forward with his dagger, barely missing the elf's right bicep. "She sent you away. Surely that releases you from any obligations that you may have had to her and her party. Let me kill her and we can go home."

"You still do not see; do you, my old friend?" Zevran asked as he jumped back to avoid Taliesin's whirlwind attack. "I do not remain at her side through some sense of obligation. I do so because she is my entire world."

"You thought the same of Rinna, at one time," the Crow declared. The mention of the dead elven lass distracted Zevran just enough so that Taliesin could slip inside his defenses and cut a gash into his left arm. Blood flew from the wound and Zevran quickly spun away. "But you moved past her eventually. The same will be true with this one, you'll see."

"That is where you are wrong, Taliesin," Zevran replied. He dove toward his former friend and dropped to his knees, bringing up his blades and cleanly slicing through the catches in Taliesin's armor. The chest piece fell with a clatter to the ground. "Rinna was special and I cared for her, but she was not my soul."

"Neither is the Warden," Taliesin argued. "It's your own guilt that compels you to remain with her. Release that, and you will truly be free." The battle was taking its toll on the Crow, and he pushed harder; needed to disable Zevran before his strength gave out.

Zevran sensed the change on Taliesin's fighting stance and backed away, lowering his weapons a few inches. It was a ruse to draw him in for one final assault. Taliesin took the bait and jumped forward, his blades swinging in an overhead arc. He hoped to slice into Zevran's arms, incapacitating him without ending his life. It was the last mistake he ever made.

Zevran allowed Taliesin's daggers to come within inches of his shoulders. Then he struck. Leaning back, he pointed both of his daggers toward the sky and thrust forward; plunging them into Taliesin's chest. The Crow's mouth flew open and a spray of blood hit Zevran in the chest. The human's arms fell to his sides and his weapons clattered to the ground. Zevran released his hold on his own knives and watched as his oldest friend slid to the ground, his breathing coming in shallow gasps.

"I am sorry, my friend," Zevran said as he knelt as Taliesin's side and slowly pulled the daggers from his body. "My feelings of guilt do not keep me at Zeva's side. My heart does." When Taliesin's breathing finally stopped, Zevran reached down and closed his eyes. Only then did he notice that the fighting around him had stopped. He looked around quickly, searching the area for Zeva. He found her several feet away, helping Morrigan tend to their companions' wounds.

"I am truly sorry, Zevran," Leliana said as she looked down upon him. "I know he was your friend. This couldn't have been easy for you."

"No, it was not," he replied. "But it was necessary." He took the bard's proffered hand and allowed her to pull him to his feet. Zeva saw him and cautiously approached, her heart pounding loudly in her ears.

"Are you seriously injured, Zevran?" she asked and the sound of her voice as she spoke his name was like music to his ears. "I am sure Morrigan wouldn't mind helping you, if you need it."

He wanted more than anything to take Zeva in his arms and hold her, but he had to follow the prearranged plan. If his return to the Wardens' party was to be permanent, it had to be Zeva's idea.

"I am fine," he said softly, brushing the dirt from his leathers. "I do appreciate the offer, however, Warden. I am sorry to have interfered with your fight, but I had to face Taliesin on my own. I learned of his planned attack on your party and felt it was my duty to stop him. The Crows should no longer be a problem for you." He looked at the ground, unable to meet her eyes as he continued, "And neither will I. I wish you the best in your battle against the Blight. I am certain, given your talent and the support of your comrades, that you will succeed in stopping it." Without another word, he turned and began slowly walking back to the alcove from which he'd arrived.

Isabela sat completely still on a rooftop overlooking the courtyard, her fingers tightly crossed. She knew the risks of this particular plan. If the beautiful Warden failed to act, Zevran's chance to return to her might well be lost forever. Dammit, girl, she thought furiously as she gazed down at Zeva, don't be a fool!

o~~~~~~~~o

Zeva stared at Zevran's retreating back, her heart breaking as it had in the courtyard of Castle Redcliffe. Though she tried to maintain a calm demeanor, she couldn't hide the tears building in her eyes from her companions.

Fergus stood several feet away and watched the scene, unsure of what course of action to take. All at once a quiet voice appeared next to his left shoulder. "Don't make her go through this again, Fergus," Leliana whispered. "Please. I don't know if she could take it." He glanced over and looked deep into the bard's eyes, seeing the truth in her words. Finally, he nodded and moved to his sister's side.

"Do what you feel is right, Zeva," he said quietly, placing a hand on her shoulder. She looked up and the tears she'd been fighting slid slowly down her cheeks. He brushed them away and inclined his head toward Zevran's retreating back. "Whatever you decide, it had best be soon or he will be gone."

Zeva looked back at Zevran and took a tentative step forward. The moment she paused, Eamon's words rang clearly in her head:

No one is without sin, Zeva, and often our crimes are committed through no choice of our own. Place the blame where it truly belongs and your heart will lead you to the right course of action.

Taking a deep breath, she began quickly following where her heart led.

Zevran was nearly at the gate of the courtyard when he heard steps approaching from behind. He knew who it was without turning around. He would recognize the sound of his beloved Warden's steps anywhere. Though he slowed his pace, he did not stop. If she wanted to speak to him, she would have to be the one to begin.

"Zevran," she called and the elf instantly froze. Though he wanted to turn and face her, he found himself unable to move. He didn't think he could bear to look her in the eye if she planned on letting him go.

"Yes, Warden?" he asked, turning his head slightly to the side. He despised using her title, but he didn't think he could speak her name without losing what little control he had left. "Is there something further you need from me?"

Zeva stared at his back, unsure of how to answer his question. What did she need? She supposed that much was simple. She needed him to stay. But what of his needs? Was it fair of her to ask him to stay when she was unable and unwilling to leave Duncan? Maybe she should just let him go; let him find his own life and his own love, far away from the Blight, the Wardens, and her. Such musings were suddenly interrupted by the sound of his voice.

"Zeva?" As soon as he said her name, she knew her decision was made. Without another word, she approached Zevran and slid her arms around his waist; squeezing him tightly as she laid her head on his back.

"I need you, Zevran," she whispered as fresh tears fell from her eyes. "I don't care who you were or what you did before. I only know that I can't let you go again; even if it's wrong. Please don't leave me. I don't think I could survive it."

Instantly, Zevran spun around and wrapped Zeva in a crushing embrace. He captured her mouth in a searing kiss, his tongue sliding across her lips; demanding entrance. With one hand he pulled her as tight as possible against his body while the other tangled in her long, silky hair; keeping her from moving even one inch away.

Zeva moaned softly as she returned his embrace, her heart soaring as his tongue moved sensually against her own. She knew the others were watching, but she didn't care. In this moment, the world consisted of only she and Zevran; anyone else was secondary and unimportant.

Though their lips eventually parted, Zevran refused to relinquish his hold on the beautiful Warden. He pressed his forehead to hers and stared deep into her eyes.

"I am so sorry, my Zeva," he whispered, "for everything I've done. I know I should have told you about my part in the attack on your home, but I didn't know how or where to begin. How does one tell the most important person in his life that he may well have aided in the destruction of everything she loved? I swear to you that if I had known Howe's plans for your family beforehand, I would have tried to do something to stop him."

Zeva leaned forward and kissed him gently once again. "I know, Zevran," she said. "Taliesin told me that you weren't allowed to know anything about my family or Howe's plans for us. But even before he told me, I knew that was the case. Rendon Howe is the only one to blame for the death of those I loved, and he is the one who will pay dearly for his debauchery."

"Yes, he will," Zevran agreed. "And I will be there at your side to insure that he does. As will your Warden Commander, I have no doubt."

Zeva opened her mouth to speak and Zevran shook his head. "You don't need to say anything, Zeva," he said softly. "I know that you will remain with Duncan until the time of his Calling. I have known that since the night that we left Orzammar, and I have come to accept that fact.

However," he continued, "I do have a question, if I may. Why would you risk upsetting Duncan by inviting me back into your group? You know he will be displeased to see me return to the estate at your side."

"Duncan may not be pleased," Zeva replied, "but he will understand. I will make him understand. He knows how important you are to me; and though he detests it, I think he now realizes how hard it would be for me to go on without you at my side."

Zevran chuckled. "You dodge the question, my beloved Warden," he chided. "I asked why you would risk upsetting him, not whether he would understand. If I am to return to you, there can be no more secrets between us. Tell me how you truly feel, Zeva. Please."

Zeva's heart raced nearly out of control as she gazed into Zevran's eyes. She knew what he wanted to hear, but could she really tell him? Once more, Eamon's voice helped calm her fears:

I know that you adore your Warden Commander – that much is clear whenever you are near him – but that doesn't mean that your feelings for Zevran are any less real or powerful. It is time for you to accept those feelings and allow them to strengthen you instead of tearing you down.

Zeva traced Zevran's facial tattoos with her fingertips and looked deep into his eyes as she answered his question. "I would risk anything to have you back with me, Zevran Arainai," she whispered, "because I love you."

Tears slipped from Zevran's eyes as he once more took possession of Zeva's lips. This kiss was completely unlike the first. The desperate passion was gone, replaced with a feeling so deep and powerful that it stole their very breath away. When at last they parted, the smile on Zevran's face matched the shining light in his eyes.

"I love you, too, my beautiful Zeva," he whispered, "And I always will. I know that you love Duncan, as well, and I will respect your decision to remain at his side. But remember this, my love. You are my heart and my soul, as I am yours. Someday we will be one. Until then, know that nothing in this world will ever tear me from your side again. Not even you."

He kissed her one last time and released his hold on her. "And though you are with Duncan," he added, "know that I will occasionally insist that you repeat those words to me; lest you are tempted to forget them."

"As you command, my dearest assassin," Zeva replied and led him back toward their abandoned companions; all of whom looked rather uncomfortable. They were halfway there when Zevran stopped Zeva.

"What of Fergus, my darling?" he asked. "Should I draw my blades before I get too close?"

"No, Zevran," she answered. "I don't think it will be necessary. Fergus heard Taliesin's words as clearly as I did and I think he has a better understanding of the events that took place in our home. And if he forgets, I will be sure to remind him."

"My beautiful Warden," Zevran teased as they came closer to the party, "I do so love your rather violent tendencies."

"Are we moving forward now, Kadan?" Sten asked when Zeva drew near. "The Warden Commander will be anxious if we don't return soon."

"Oh, I think he'll have more things to be furious about when we return that how long this trip took," Oghren commented, winking at Zeva. "If violence erupts, make sure to invite me to watch."

"I am glad to see that you are coming with us, Zevran," Leliana said as the group moved forward toward their appointment with Marjolain. "Your particular skills will come in quite handy at our next stop."

"Always willing to aid a beautiful woman in distress," the elf replied, bowing politely to the bard.

As the party exited the darkened courtyard, Morrigan caught Zevran's gaze and the duo shared a secret smile.

Sometimes the most devilish schemes are hatched for all the right reasons…