Chapter 1: White Wedding Part I

Author note:

Welcome to the story of Adeline Tabris, the City Elf. I tried to stick mostly to cannon, but of course, what fun would this be if we all kept to the rules, hmm?

I hope whoever reads this enjoys it as much as I have enjoyed writing it.

Sidenote* I'll be tracking the timeline of Adeline's adventure on the top of some of the chapters - I hope it's more helpful than a distraction

ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

[Early spring (beginning of Drakonis)]

Duncan sat quietly at a small table towards the back of the tavern, looking over his notes. The place was fairly busy, filled with sailors and deck-hands, and the occasional city guard. He had come back to Denerim after recruiting a knight from Redcliffe, Ser Jory, at a tournament in Highever; he was now looking for Adaia Tabris. He would search for her in the Alienage tomorrow, but for now, he would plan out a rout to Orzammar – if his search was not fruitful, he would visit King Endrin; he and a few of his fellow Wardens had been invited to stay at the Royal Palace.

The old rogue's eyes scanned the bodies moving through the tavern with a practiced eye; every person has a story, his mentor had once said – the fun was trying to figure it out. He spotted an older man with long, jagged scars across his face, and an eye patch over his left eye. He could sense the faint pulse of taint through him – he had gotten those wounds from a shriek, by the shape; a veteran of the Deep Roads, who had taken in darkspawn blood.

His gaze moved to another table, where a young Elf woman was sitting, her caramel hair tied up in a neat bun held together with what looked like a curved bone pin, her sky-blue eyes flashing in the dim light. High, proud cheekbones, narrow nose, wolf eyes – a Dalish hunter, come to explore the land of the shemlen, he supposed. She had an air of ease to her, though – she had been here long enough not to constantly jump at the foreign sights and sounds.

Duncan watched as one of the waitresses walked over, setting another mead down in front of the woman. The serving girl was an Elf as well – petit and pale-skinned – with delicate features, bright, green eyes and blazing red hair, which had been braided over one shoulder, but stubbornly continued to undo itself; Duncan had been watching this same waitress re-braid her hair almost a dozen times, her expression becoming more frustrated with each repetition.

"Neria, I'm cutting you off after this," the waitress said, speaking to the Dalish Elf, who scowled and flicked her arm playfully as she took a draught of her mead.

"This early? Come on Tabby, don't be such a teetotaler," Neria complained, and 'Tabby' rolled her eyes.

"I'd hardly call myself that," the girl snorted. "I just don't get fall-down drunk in public like you and Daveth." At the familiar name, Duncan listened more intently – that was the name of one of his recruits. Neria finished her drink and let out a groan of complaint.

"Alright, alright, I'm going," the woman chuckled, patting the waitress's arm and heading out.

"Careful on your way home," she called after, and Neria raised an arm, letting her know she had heard.

"Tabris!" the barkeep shouted, and the girl flinched.

"Ahh…sod…" she muttered, walking over to the bar. The surname had caught Duncan's attention – this girl wasn't Adaia, but her features were reminiscent of the woman. Is she…a relative of hers? the Grey Warden wondered, watching intently.

"You chasing away customers again?" the man asked, glowering at the girl, who kept her eyes on the countertop.

"It's dangerous for a lone Elf woman to be walking the streets this late – especially drunk," she replied softly, and the man scoffed.

"I'm taking whatever she would have paid from your pay tonight," he said, and her eyes flashed as she glared incredulously at the man.

"What?" she exclaimed. "How is that fair?" she added, and the man sneered.

"I own you, knife-ears – I don't have to be fair. Remember that," he hissed, and the girl glared at him, her fists clenched so tight that her hands were shaking. "Now get back to work," he added, and she bobbed her head, returning to the table where Neria had been sitting, clearing it off.

That was one of the things Duncan didn't like about Denerim, and Ferelden in general – the way the Elves were treated. He supposed that in other places it was worse – Alienages in Orlais, for instance, had walls so high that the sunlight didn't touch the ground until noon – but he still couldn't stand to see such suffering. But if she is related to Adaia, perhaps I could speak to her tomorrow, he thought, watching the girl until her shift ended, and she went home without pay.

oOo

The moon was hanging high over the city, sailing through the dark, blue-black sky, speckled with stars. I walked down the narrow alleyways near the docks, my hair flowing wild about my shoulders like a burgundy flame as a wind picked up, the cool, salty spray carrying the smell of the sea to my nose. I sighed, biting my lip and looking out across the sailing boats and cargo ships, wondering where Daveth could be. Only half-decent shem in this damned city goes missing…ugh, and I'm getting married in a week. I wish mom were still around; she wouldn't force me into this nonsense. Probably.

I worked as a serving girl at the 'Fish Head' tavern – most of the patrons were Antivan and Rivaini sailors and deck-hands, coming in to relax after a long day of work. The Fish was also home to a small-time criminal group that I ran with, on occasion – Daveth was a permanent member, as was our mutual friend, Neria. The group called on me when they needed someone with the 'golden touch' for safe-cracking, or needed a good acrobat for second-story work.

I stopped as I found Neria waiting for me by a street corner, a pair of bottles tucked under her arm – a bottle of Orlesian red wine and another bottle of Rivaini rum. "Why so glum, lethallan?" she asked, and I shrugged as she fell into step with me. She was a tall Elf with long, caramel colored hair and bright blue eyes – one of my closest friends.

"I miss Daveth," I admitted, and she chuckled.

"Oh, I'm sure he'll turn up sooner or later. He's like a cat – he'll come home when he's hungry," Neria replied, and I smiled slightly. "But…I can tell there's something else bothering you as well," she added, and I shrugged.

"The wedding," I replied, and she nodded in understanding.

"Ah. Right. You city Elves have rather…interesting traditions," she remarked, and I snorted, rolling my eyes.

"You can just say weird, Neria," I chuckled, and she smirked. "So what do the Dalish do, then?" I added, and she pursed her lips.

"Hmm…well, when a man and a woman really love each other…" she began, and I groaned.

"Oh Maker, don't start it that way!" I laughed, and she smirked.

"Well, marriage among the Dalish is called 'bonding'. We share a bond of mutual love and respect with our life-mate," Neria explained.

"So…no arranged marriages?" I asked.

"Not in my clan at least," she replied.

"Oh, speaking of your clan, have you heard from them?" I asked, and she sighed.

"No, unfortunately not. The last news was that they were heading north. I think they'll cut across the Bannorn if they can, or go through the Frostbacks; before I left, Keeper Marethari said she had sensed something…wrong in the south, near the Korcari Wilds," Neria murmured, and I raised an eyebrow at her words.

"Wrong? What do you mean?" I wondered, and she shrugged slightly.

"I'm…not sure. Her First – her apprentice – Merrill said she could sense a…darkness. As if the land is sick," she replied, keeping her voice low. I think the Keeper wanted to move the clan all the way to the Free Marches," Neria added, her eyes troubled.

"Don't you want to look for them?" I asked; Neria had come to Denerim two years ago, lost and alone, and Daveth and I had helped her get back on her feet.

"After…Tamlen disappeared, there wasn't much left for me," she replied softly, and I took her hand in mine. I had heard the name before – I knew he was important to Neria – but the woman spoke very little of her life before coming to Denerim.

"Was he your life-mate?" I asked gently. She shook her head.

"No…but I think he was going to ask me," she sighed. "We had always been together, ever since my parents went to the Beyond. He was…ma sa'lath – my one love," she whispered. I gently wrapped an arm around her shoulder, and Neria smiled. "Now come on, da'len – you should head home before your father scolds you again," she added in a slightly more cheerful tone, and I smiled.

The moon was moving west, and I realized it must have been well past midnight – I didn't usually work this late, and father would be worried. "Oh, he's probably already waiting for me," I replied.

"Here, take these – I'm done for the night," Neria said before I left, handing me the unopened bottles. "Now you be safe, alright?" she added, and I smiled, nodding as I headed home.

The quickest way across Denerim was across the rooftops – which was the reason I generally wore pants, much to my father's chagrin; they were unladylike, he argued, but I always countered that I was hardly ladylike myself. I ran lightly over the shingled roofs, balancing across narrow beams and jumping over gaps between buildings, holding my hands out to steady myself.

Hmm, speaking of Dalish clans, I thought as I neared my home, returning to street-level, didn't some of the boys from the Alienage run off to find them a couple of days ago? Taeodor's brothers, I think. I wandered through the moonlit streets of Denerim; it was that time of night where the streets were utterly silent, without a soul around. I feel like the grim, I thought wryly, chuckling softly to myself as I shook my head.

I made my way back to the Alienage, looking up at the large, wooden gate and making a face; it was barred – not surprising, since I was out well past curfew. "Shems don't know how to take out their trash, so they shove it into a filthy hole, huh?" I grumbled, shaking my head. I took a few steps back and dashed towards the wall, running lightly up the bricks and hopping over the spiked barricade, landing silently on the other side.

The Alienage itself was quiet, with only a few drunks and beggars lying about in their dirty corners, ragged and sickly. One of them wasn't moving – he was probably dead. I sighed; I'd have thought my heart would've been hardened by now, living in a place where death permeated the air, but it tightened a bit at the sight.

"Adeline, you shouldn't go out so late at night," my father chided, hearing me come in.

"I thought you would have been asleep by now," I remarked, taking off my shoes by the door. The old wooden floor creaked as I walked, and I could feel a bit of a draft coming in through the back wall – I'd have to take a look at that one of these days. Hopefully giant rats weren't getting into the house…

"I can't sleep when my daughter is running through Denerim at all hours of the night," my father replied with a sigh. "You know your betrothed is going to be here soon," he added, and I gave a derisive snort.

"What, you don't want me falling and breaking a leg? Ruin my image before he gets here?" I asked, a hint of bitterness in my tone. Father sighed, crossing his arms as I walked over to the dining table, setting the two bottles of spirits down and looking up at him.

"That isn't what I mean, da'len," he rumbled softly, watching as I brushed by, going around the corner and changing, climbing into the bottom bunk.

oooo

I walked the Fade – as I sometimes did when I became aware that I was dreaming – when I sensed an odd, dark presence. A voice, the most beautiful thing I had ever heard, echoed around me, and I ran towards it, trying to find the source. No matter how I ran, though, or where I searched, I couldn't find it. I cried out, pained that I couldn't find the voice's origin, and I jolted, hearing a second voice blast through the dream.

oooo

"Wake up!" I groaned, rolling over on my side and squinting up at Shianni, her messy red hair shining in the light coming through the dusty windows. "Wake up, Cousin! Why are you still in bed? It's your big day!" Her big, brown eyes were shining with excitement, and I grumbled, pulling the sheets back over my head.

"Uuuunnn…just a little longer…" I moaned, and Shianni snorted, crossing her arms.

"Come on! Don't make me use cold water again," she threatened, and I sighed, rolling into a sitting position and looking up at her expectantly, scratching my ear and trying to tame my wild red mane. I let out a long breath, getting up and stretching, walking over to the nightstand and pouring out a glass of water; my throat felt dry and scratchy, as if all the shouting I had done in my dream had carried over to my physical body. "You do remember what today is, don't you?" Shianni prodded, and I glanced over.

"Soris's wedding?" I asked, taking a drink. Some girl from the Alienage in Highever, I think. Why they didn't send our betrotheds together is beyond me, I almost snorted at the thought, the water running down my throat and soothing the dry tissue.

"A double wedding! You're getting married too!" she grinned, and I choked, spitting out my mouthful of water and leaving a large splatter on the wall. I set down my cup and beat my chest, coughing and glaring at her.

"Don't scare me like that Shianni! My betrothed isn't supposed to be here until the end of the week," I retorted grumpily as I wiped my mouth, and she grinned smugly at me.

"That's what I came to tell you! Your groom, Nelaros…he's here early! Wait, get back here!" she yelled, grabbing me as I made a break for the window. "You're not getting away that easy!" she grinned, slamming the window closed and locking it, standing guard so I couldn't get past her.

"Dammit Shianni!" I yelled, throwing my hands in the air, "you know I don't like the idea of this arranged match business."

"And who else are you going to marry?" she countered. "Besides, I already snuck a peek – he's handsome!" Shianni grinned, and I snorted at her eagerness, crossing my arms. "There's going to be music, decorations, feasting…weddings are so much fun! You're so lucky!" she added, and I glared at my enthusiastic cousin; she was nearly bursting with excitement.

"I don't feel lucky," I muttered, and she smirked.

"Well too bad! I'm just glad I got to be the one to tell you!" Shianni laughed at my look of chagrin.

"You just want to get to the drinking," I accused, glowering at her. I could already smell the faint tang of alcohol on her breath – she'd started early today, I guessed.

"Which won't happen until you get going, will it?" Shianni replied, rolling her eyes at my glare. "And it's your fault – all I can think of is busting open that Orlesian red you just left lying about," she added, and I scoffed.

"Oh no, that's Soris's wedding gift," I said. "But I'm sure he'll let you have a cup if you ask him nicely," I added. "And you can have whatever's left of the rum after I've drowned myself in it," I muttered, and she grinned, patting me hard on the back.

"Alright, I'll stop tormenting you," Shianni chuckled at my glare. "I should go talk to the other bridesmaids and find my dress," she added, turning to go. "Oh, Soris said that he'll be waiting for you outside. So move it!"

"Right," I replied, glaring at the floor. I let out a frustrated sigh, dragging my feet and reluctantly finding my wedding dress. It was elegant – a bell-sleeved gown that was cut low over my shoulders with lace trim down the skirt, the hem trailing lightly on the floor. It was also probably worth more than everything I owned put together – my father and I had been saving for months to buy the material, and Shianni and I had made the gown ourselves.

I pulled it on, brushing out my hair until it shone, rolling like a red flame down to the middle of my back, and I tamed it into a loose fish-tail braid, scowling as a few stubborn strands fell by my cheeks, which I tucked behind my ears. "Don't you dare come undone – I need to look at least half-decent today," I ordered the hair, as if it would understand.

I looked at myself in the small hand mirror, my green eyes reflected back as I made a face – the red lipstick Shianni had leant me was nice…but I still looked like a plague-victim. My eyes had dark circles under them, and though my skin was clear, it was a shade too pale for my tastes. "Hopefully no one thinks you've caught the Blight sickness," I muttered to my reflection as I shook my head, putting the mirror down and patting my cheeks, trying to get some color into them as I stood.

"Ah, my little girl," my father said, greeting me as I walked around the corner to the living area. "It's…the last day I'll be able to call you that," he sighed, smiling at me and placing a gentle hand on my cheek. "Oh, I wish your mother could have been here."

"Dad, could we…talk about this arrangement?" I asked, knitting my fingers together. He must have seen the look in my eyes, because he nodded, smiling faintly. His hair was dark grey in the faint light of the room, and I could see the decorative bone ring that hung at the end of a small braid tucked over his ear; a gift from my mother, from long ago.

"Still not pleased, I can see. Of course we can talk," he said.

"Do I really have to get married?" I complained, and he smiled gently, patting my shoulder.

"It's time for you to have your own life. Unmarried, you're a child forever," father replied, and I made a face. "The dowry has been paid, the Chantry has issued the permit, and everything is ready. All we need is you."

"Wait…you paid a dowry for my groom?" I asked, raising an eyebrow.

"There's a lot to arranging marriages. Probably the biggest factor is deciding which spouse travels to which Alienage," father explained. "One side gets new blood and a new face, and the other side loses a family member. The dowry helps even things out," he added, and I crossed my arms, realizing I had gotten sidetracked.

"That's…but that's beside the point! I don't want to get married!" I retorted, and he chuckled at my petulance.

"I understand. Before I met Adaia, I was ready to go hunt for the Dalish," my father recalled. "Just be glad I chose the match. Without parents to represent you, children like your cousin Soris end up marrying whoever the elder can find," he added, and I mumbled something under my breath. I sighed, calming down and looking up at my father.

"So tell me about my groom, then," I prompted. Maybe he might not be so bad, I thought, trying to give it a chance – to make Dad happy, at least.

"Nelaros? He's from a good family in Highever, their youngest son. He's an expert at the blacksmith's anvil from what I'm told. And yes, he's very handsome. I knew you'd ask, so I thought I'd save you the trouble," he smiled, and I snorted.

"Yes, Shianni beat you to it," I smiled faintly. Blacksmith, eh? Okay, that's not so bad, maybe. Better than being an unskilled laborer and having to work at the docks.

"All right, time for you to go find Soris. The sooner this wedding starts, the less chance you two have to escape," father teased, and I smiled.

"A small chance is still a chance," I replied with a wink, and he chuckled at me.

"Still have your mother's smart mouth, I see," he smiled, pinching my cheek affectionately. "Oh, one last thing before you go, my dear," he added, and I nodded. "Your martial training…the swordplay, knives, and whatever else your mother trained you in; best not to mention it to your betrothed," he said delicately, his tone cautionary.

"He'll find out sooner or later," I replied with a shrug.

"Later. Definitely later," he added pointedly, and I nodded. "We don't want to seem like troublemakers, after all. Adaia made that mistake," he sighed, a sad look in his eyes as he remembered my mother.

"Mother was a clever rogue," I replied, and he looked at me sadly, nodding slowly.

"Yes. That she was," he murmured. "Take these. Your mother would have wanted you to have them. It's the very least I can give you, as you start your new life," father said, handing me a small box. I opened it, finding a pair of long leather boots, beautifully crafted, and my eyes widened in recognition – these were once Mother's. I grinned, pulling them on – they slid over my legs, the insides feeling like silk, going all the way up to my thighs.

"Thank you!" I smiled, leaping into his arms, and he closed his eyes, hugging me tightly and planting a kiss on my forehead.

"I love you, my little girl," he sighed, stroking my hair.

"I love you too, Dad," I replied, smiling up at him.

"Go on, then. I still have some things to do, and Soris is no doubt waiting for you," my father prompted, and I nodded. I stopped at the table as I retrieved Soris's wedding present, opening the rum and taking a long gulp right from the bottle, feeling the nervousness in my stomach calming a bit.

"For courage," I said to my father, who chuckled and shook his head as I handed him the bottle. "Make sure Shianni doesn't get into that until after the reception – Alarith is still mad about the whole henhouse debacle," I added, and he nodded, watching me go. I paused at the door for a moment, closing my eyes and taking a deep breath.

I walked through the Alienage, greeting everyone amicably as they congratulated me for my upcoming wedding. I smiled stiffly, trying to look happy, but my heart just wasn't in it. I greeted Soris's friend, Taeodor, as I passed by; he was leaning against the Vhenadahl, the ancient tree that stretched into the sky like a giant, gnarled hand, standing at the center of the Alienage. "Hello, there. Congratulations on the big day!" Taeodor smiled, and I nodded, thanking him. "Have you seen Soris?" he asked, and I shook my head, glancing around for him.

"No, I'm looking for him myself," I replied.

"Well, if you see him, ask him to come by and say hello, will you?" he asked, and I said I would. I glanced over as I heard someone talking nearby, spotting a pair of Elves, a man and a woman, watching me and discussing something.

"Well, it's around the eyes, mostly," the woman explained.

"I still don't see it. Whenever I look, I just see the mother," the man said, and the woman shook her head.

"The mother was far more delicate," she insisted.

"It's the same sort of nose, you must admit that. The breeding shows…" he replied.

"There you go again with breeding. We're not horses, you know," she complained.

"Of course not, but bloodlines are important. That's all I'm saying!" the man argued.

"I think the whole notion is ridiculous," the woman said.

"Well, you've got the freedom to think so. You come from good stock," the man retorted, and the woman crossed her arms, shaking her head at him.

"Well, it's the lucky bride herself. Hello, dear," the woman greeted me as she caught me watching, and I raised an eyebrow, walking over to the pair.

"Now, love. She probably doesn't remember us," the man remarked, smiling gently at me.

"Oh, of course. I'm Dilwyn, and this is Gethon," the woman introduced them. "We were friends of your mother's. We haven't seen much of you since she…well…" Dilwyn trailed off awkwardly, making a sad face.

"Father really loved her," I sighed, biting my lip – mother had died when I was still quite young; just old enough to hold a sword and not fall over from the weight. I vaguely remembered the old couple – they had been at my mother's funeral, all those years ago.

"Your father still doesn't speak of her, does he?" Gethon asked, and I nodded.

"Adaia was beautiful and full of life. And a bit wild," Dilwyn said, a hint of sadness in her tone.

"She wanted you more than anything. It's sad she never got to see you all grown up," Gethon added, clasping his hands before him and looking at the ground.

"We just wanted to see you today and express our good wishes," Dilwyn smiled, and I nodded graciously.

"Thank you; any friend of my mother's is a friend of mine," I replied, and the two smiled at me.

"It means the world to us to see you happy," Dilwyn said, her eyes glowing with warmth.

"We've saved a bit of money for this day. We'd…we'd like you to have it to help start your new life," Gethon added, holding out a small coin purse.

"I'm honored. Thank you," I said, accepting the money.

"Maker bless you," Gethon said, bidding me farewell as the two left. I smiled after them, continuing through the Alienage until I spotted Soris; he was leaning nonchalantly against a wooden support beam near Alarith's store, his dark red hair shining faintly in the sunlight. I whistled, catching his attention, and he grinned crookedly at me as I joined him.

"Well, if it isn't my lucky cousin. Care to celebrate the end of our independence together?" he asked, and I rolled my eyes and smiled, crossing my arms at the lanky Elf – he was nearly as tall as a human man, making me feel even shorter than usual whenever we stood together.

"Is running away still an option?" I joked, and he snorted.

"Where would you go? Into the woods to live with the Dalish Elves?" Soris asked, and I shrugged.

"It could happen; Neria's still in town," I replied.

"Live in the forest with the Dalish, far from humans? Sounds like a dream," he said, only half joking. "Hmm. Not that we'd know where to find them, even with Neria's help; besides, why would you run? Apparently, your groom's a dream come true," he remarked. "My bride sounds like a dying mouse," Soris added with a groan, and I chuckled.

"Maybe you'll get a cage for a wedding present," I smirked, and he laughed, shaking his head at me as he smiled helplessly.

"You're terrible!" he grinned.

"Ah, and speaking of presents," I added, presenting the bottle with a flourish. "Tah-dah! A genuine bottle of Orlesian red," I grinned, and he smiled at me.

"A gift from one of your 'admirers' at the Fish Head?" Soris teased, and I made a face.

"Eww, gross Soris!" I laughed, slapping his arm. "As if I'd let some sweaty human put his hands on me," I scoffed, shaking my head. "It's from Neria as well – she's coming later, for the reception," I added.

"Alright," he chuckled as we walked back to the house he shared with Shianni and Elder Valendrian, "Let me just put this away, and we'll go introduce you to your dreamy betrothed before you say 'I do'," he added.

"Ah, Taeodor wanted to see you," I said once we left the house, and he nodded as we strolled towards the Vhenadahl at a leisurely pace. As we walked by a gap between two buildings, a large rat ran past, and I made a face. "Ugh, don't let Shianni see that thing," I muttered, and Soris grinned.

"Why, you afraid she's going to make her Denerim-rabbit stew for the reception?" he teased, and I glowered.

"I still don't know how you're not skeeved out by it," I muttered, and he laughed; I still ate the stew – beggars can't be choosers – but I just couldn't look at it the same way, once I discovered what the 'rabbit' part actually was. As I was lost in thought, a pair of kids ran by, a brother and sister; the boy wasn't watching where he was going, and bumped into me. "Easy there," I said, catching his arm before he fell.

"Huh?" he asked, surprised, and his sister ran up behind him, tapping his back lightly with a thin stick.

"Wham! You're dead!" she giggled, and the boy scowled at her.

"No fair. She stopped me!" he complained, crossing his arms sourly.

"What were you two playing?" I asked curiously, and Soris rolled his eyes at me; I had always had a soft-spot for kids. Him…not so much.

"Heroes and Humans! She made it up," the boy replied, indicating his sister.

"We each choose someone from the Elder's stories and do furious battle. I always win!" the girl added, twirling the stick around cockily.

"That's 'cause you cheat!" her brother accused her, narrowing his eyes.

"Why humans? Why not play as Elves?" I asked, and they shrugged.

"Do you know any stories about Elven heroes?" the girl replied, and I nodded.

"Sure, I know a story," I said, and Soris raised an eyebrow.

"You do?" he asked with surprise.

"Really?" the kids added, and I nodded again.

"It's about the great Elven hero, Garahel," I began, and Soris sighed, letting out a soft groan – he had heard this story a thousand times by now.

"Garahel?" the girl echoed, and I nodded, smiling.

"He was a Grey Warden, but he started out just like you and me – he was born in an Alienage," I continued, and the children looked up at me with big eyes. "He rose up from his lot in life and joined the Grey Wardens with his sister, the Elf mage Isseya, where he became a griffon rider," I recalled. "Garahel is best known for defeating the archdemon Andorhal during the fourth Blight, and is remembered by all as a great hero," I finished, and the children grinned at me.

"Hooray! I'm going to be Isseya!" the girl grinned, running off. "Take that darkspawn! Taste my magic fire!" she shouted, waving her stick around like a magic staff.

"I'm Garahel!" her brother shouted back, chasing after her. "Quick! Let's slay the archdemon!" he added, grabbing another stick from the ground and holding it in the air.

Soris watched them go, crossing his arms and nodding at me. "You just can't help yourself with those stories," he observed, and I grinned, shrugging as we continued.

"Children need Elven heroes," I replied.

"I suppose you're right," he admitted, heading over to Taeodor as we neared the Vhenadahl. "But your obsession with Grey Warden stories doesn't seem healthy," he added, shaking his head as I shot him a sour look.

"I like history, unlike some people," I replied, and he rolled his eyes at my defensive tone. "But can you imagine it? Becoming a hero throughout all of Thedas? Humans looking at you with respect?" I asked, but my words were lost on my cousin.

"I'll settle for marrying the nice girl who hides grain for the winter," he replied wryly, and I snorted.

"You have no imagination, cos," I teased. He ignored me, waving to Taeodor as we neared the young man.

"There's the man of the hour. How are you, Soris?" Taeodor greeted, smiling at us.

"I'm well. This is my cousin Adeline, the bride. The other bride," Soris introduced us.

"We've met on occasion. Blessings on the day, both of you," Taeodor replied.

"Poor Soris isn't feeling very blessed," I teased as I elbowed his ribs, and my cousin snorted, crossing his arms and rolling his eyes at me.

"True enough. Still, better to be married and have a real life than to remain a child," he reasoned, and I shrugged.

"There is something you should know, Soris. My brothers won't be coming. They…left to find the Dalish, you see," Taeodor said apologetically.

"Really?" I asked – so his brothers really had gone out into the Brecilian.

"Don't worry, Taeodor. I'm sure your brothers will be fine," Soris assured him, and Taeodor laughed.

"Yes, I'm sure they'll show up in a few days, embarrassed and hungry," the Elf replied, nodding farewell as we headed off. I could see Shianni, Nola and Tialla a little ways off, waving to us as we approached. I froze, staring behind the girls – some humans had come into the Alienage; three young men, wearing fine clothing and jewelry. They must have been the sons of noblemen, looking for some entertainment – kicking the Elves around in the slums.

"Let go of me! Stop, please!" Nola cried as one of the men came up behind her, grabbing her arms. She struggled free, running off a short way and cowering behind Tialla.

"It's a party, isn't it? Grab a whore and have a good time," one of the men laughed wickedly, his eyes flashing as he looked around. I thought I recognized him – perhaps I had seen him around the city when I was…relieving people of valuables that they wouldn't miss. I gritted my teeth as the man walked up to Shianni, stroking his short, light-brown stubble as he looked over her. "Savor the hunt, boys. Take this little Elven wench, here…so young and vulnerable…" he grinned cruelly, and Shianni glared up at him, standing her ground.

"Touch me and I'll gut you, you pig!" she threatened.

"Please, my lord! We're celebrating weddings, here!" an Elf man pleaded, walking over and trying to calm everyone down. A nervous crowd had gathered, murmuring and milling about in agitation at this noble's presence. Oh sod, I hope that noble's brat doesn't start anything…I thought grimly, narrowing my eyes as the young nobleman sneered.

"Silence, worm!" the nobleman barked, slapping the Elf hard across the face and knocking him to the ground. The man cried out, rolling over quickly and scurrying off, not wanting to get kicked or stomped on while he lay in the dirt.

"Sod!" I hissed, taking a step towards them. Soris grabbed my arm, looking down at me sternly, but with a hint of fear in his eyes.

"I know what you're thinking, but maybe we shouldn't get involved…" he tried, and I glared up at him.

"Objection noted. Now get out of my way," I muttered, and he sighed, letting go of my arm.

"Fine. But let's try to be diplomatic, shall we?" he urged, and I nodded brusquely, walking over to where a small crowd had begun to gather.

"What's this? Another lovely one come to keep me company?" the nobleman asked, his eyes roving lustfully over me as I approached. Out of the corner of my eye, I could see Shianni run over to a pile of crates, grabbing an empty bottle.

"You need to leave at once. You are causing a scene," I said firmly, crossing my arms and looking up at the man as he sneered at me.

"Ha! You hear that, Vaughan?" one of the other men asked, and Vaughan scoffed, narrowing his eyes at me.

"Or I could eject you myself," I added, and he snorted derisively at my words.

"Do you have any idea who I am?" Vaughan growled, letting out a startled gasp as Shianni cracked him over the head with the bottle, laying him out. He collapsed in a heap with a splash, landing face-down in a puddle of murky water.

"Ooh, nice one, cos," I whistled, prodding at the unconscious man's hand with my foot, glancing up as the two other men stared at us as if we had three heads each.

"Are you insane!? This is Vaughan Kendells*, the Arl of Denerim's son!" the darker-haired man cried, and I blinked at him in surprise.

"W-what? Oh, Maker…" Shianni gasped, horrified. She covered her mouth, staring at the Arl's son and looking back at me with big eyes.

"Look, things got out of hand…" I began, watching as the two men picked Vaughan up by the arms and legs, glaring at me.

"You've a lot of nerve, knife-ears. This'll go badly for you," the other one threatened, and I sighed, watching as they carried Vaughan out of the Alienage. The crowd around us murmured and stared after the humans, glancing back at us with worry.

"Whelp. That couldn't have gone any worse," I said simply, putting my hands on my hips and watching the Alienage gates shut, the crowd dispersing slowly as the commotion died down.

"Oh, I really messed up this time…" Shianni murmured, and I sighed, walking over to her and placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder.

"Move along now, nothing to see," I waved towards the onlookers, who shuffled off, going back to their duties and preparing for the wedding.

"It'll be all right. He won't tell anyone an Elven woman took him down," Soris assured her gently, and Shianni bit her lip nervously, looking out towards the direction the humans had gone.

"I hope so. I should get cleaned up," Shianni sighed, walking over to where Nola and Tialla stood, assuring her that everything would be okay.

"Is everybody else all right?" Soris asked, looking around. The others in the wedding party nodded as they joined us, and I looked at the two Elves standing before us. The woman was about my height, with light, brownish-gold hair and a narrow, mousy face – I bit back a laugh as I glanced up at Soris, who was glowering at my look of amusement. The man had mid-length, pale yellow hair, and soft, grey eyes that looked over me with interest – this was Nelaros, I assumed.

"I think we're just shaken. What was that about?" the woman asked, looking up at Soris, who gave a nervous, strained laugh, swallowing hard as he glanced warily back towards the Alienage gates.

"Looks like the Arl's son started drinking too early," he remarked. "Um, well let's not let this ruin the day. Uh, this is Valora, my betrothed," Soris introduced, and Valora nodded politely to me.

"Adeline," I replied, returning the gesture. "And you must be Nelaros?" I added, looking steadily up at my betrothed, trying to keep my voice neutral as I observed him. He seemed amused by my slightly brusque tone, glancing at Soris.

"A pleasure. Soris said much of you – some of it was even positive," he teased, and I shot Soris a glare.

"Hey, I just wanted to give you a sporting chance to run," my cousin laughed, and I frowned at him.

"Gee, thanks Soris. My betrothed probably thinks I'm a wild animal now," I muttered, mortified.

"I'm…sure the two of you have a lot to discuss," Soris added, walking a little ways off with Valora to give us some privacy.

"Well, here we are… Are you nervous?" Nelaros asked, and I bit my lip, twining my fingers together.

"A little," I admitted, and his expression softened as he saw the nervousness in my eyes.

"I thought I'd stay calm, but finally seeing you has made me… Well, let's just say I'm not calm," he replied. He gently took my hands in his; they were a bit rough, and had small calluses along the palms, but they were warm, and strong – the hands of a smith.

"I suppose…things can only get better?" I tried, and Nelaros smiled, calming down a bit. There was something about him that calmed me down as well; maybe it was the gentle understanding that reflected in his eyes. Maybe…maybe this really won't be so bad.

"I think you're right. I'm looking forward to seeing how life unfolds," Nelaros replied. "I'll spend every waking moment learning to make you happy, Adeline," he added, and I felt my heart tighten, heat crawling over my neck and ears as I blushed.

"I-I hope I'm worthy of that, Nelaros," I squeaked out, glancing down, and he chuckled softly at my sudden shyness.

I glanced over my shoulder as I felt Soris nudge me lightly, giving me a forced smile. "Come on, Cousin. We should let them get ready," he said through his teeth, almost pleadingly, and I fought back a smirk at his discomfort.

"We'll see you two in a bit. Don't disappear on us," Valora teased, seeing Soris's expression.

"Or we'll come find you," Nelaros added, pinching my cheek very gently before heading off to join the rest of the wedding party.

"Well that was…not what I expected. The Mouse seems nice, too," I tried to reassure Soris, but he was looking back towards the Vhenadahl, his eyes narrowing slightly.

"Don't look now, but we have another problem," he murmured, and I followed his gaze.

"What do you mean? It's not Vaughan again, is it?" I asked warily, looking around.

"Another human just walked in. Could be one of Vaughan's, or just a random troublemaker. Either way, we need to move him along before someone does something stupid," Soris said, and I spotted who he was talking about. The human had dark hair and skin – a Rivaini man, maybe, and a mercenary to boot, judging by the equipment he wore. A neatly-kept beard decorated his jaw, and his long hair was tied in a wolf-tail behind his head. He had a pair of blades on his back, and his armor was bright, and very well-made, which was a bit peculiar for a mercenary, but not unheard of.

"One human shouldn't cause much trouble. Probably," I remarked, not entirely convinced of that myself, after what had just happened. And this one was armed.

"I'm more worried about some of our boys. Wine is flowing, and I don't think we want another incident," Soris replied. I could already hear some of the men singing a bawdy song nearby about a woman in the sea, and I nodded slightly, knowing what he meant.

"Let's just kill him, then – I'm sick of the shems just marching in here," I said offhandedly, and Soris rolled his eyes at me.

"You really scare me sometimes, you know that cos?" he sighed, and I grinned.

"I'm kidding," I assured him, but he looked a bit doubtful.

"Let's just…get him out of here," he replied. "Peacefully this time," he added, giving me a pointed look, and we walked cautiously towards the man.

"S'not my fault things got out of hand. You'd think the nobles wouldn't want to dirty their boots coming down here and associating with us 'lesser beings'. Sodding shems," I replied, making air-quotes. Soris elbowed me slightly as we approached the stranger, and I lowered my hands – he had probably caught the tail end of our conversation, and was watching our approach curiously.

I glanced around quickly, taking in the surroundings; there were some loose bits of wood nearby that I could maybe knock over as a distraction, and if I was quick enough, I could snatch one of his blades to defend myself with, should trouble arise. The human was a half-head taller than Soris, and as I stood before him, I fought not to make a face – I barely reached his shoulder.

"Good day. I understand congratulations are in order for your impending wedding," he greeted in a deep, rich voice, and I raised an eyebrow at his genial tone.

"Is…he okay?" I whispered to Soris, who shrugged.

"I don't know. He seems…polite," he whispered back, equally puzzled. I looked warily up at the man, who was watching the two of us with interest.

"Do you have business here, she-… -ahem- ser?" I asked, covering myself quickly with a cough; I didn't really want to make him mad by calling him a shem. Not to his face, at least.

"I do. I believe, however, that I may have already found what I was seeking," the man replied, glossing over my stumble, and I nodded amicably, trying to smile.

"And what might that be?" I asked, curious despite myself.

"That is my business," the man replied, though his tone was not unkind.

"Fair enough. I suppose you will be leaving presently, yes?" I asked, almost insistent.

"I'm sorry, but I have no intention of leaving," the man replied. The corner of his mouth twitched slightly, as if he were biting back a smile at the flash of impatience in my eyes. I knitted my fingers together by my waist, trying to remain civil.

"Please ser, we would rather avoid any…unpleasantness," I cautioned, glancing quickly around to make sure there weren't any other humans hanging about.

"What manner of unpleasantness would you be referring to?" the man asked as he glanced between the two of us, almost chuckling.

"The…the Alienage just isn't a good place for she-…humans," I replied carefully, and he crossed his arms, slightly amused by my attempts to reason with him. Soris was looking between us warily, seeming very tense in the presence of this armed stranger. "I will ask once more, politely; please leave," I pressed.

"And I refuse, yet again. Now what?" the man challenged, though his voice was still calm. Soris looked at me nervously, sensing my fraying temper.

"Please, ser, I am trying to be…polite. This is no place for humans – I will eject you myself if I must," I argued, my tone hardening slightly.

"Surely it has not escaped your notice that I am both armed and armored. Any fight between us would be…rather one-sided," he observed. I let out a quiet sigh, pinching the bridge of my nose and muttering 'stubborn old man' under my breath.

"All the more reason for you to go!" I urged, my body tensing. I glanced around; there was a broom nearby that I might be able to defend myself with, but I would have to move quickly if he insisted on causing trouble.

"I have no intention of leaving. Unless you intend to force me to do so?" the man asked – he was almost challenging me.

"You're not staying, armed or not," I said firmly, nodding towards the Alienage gate. "I would very much prefer not to have to resort to violent means, but if you force my hand, I assure you that a fight between us would not be as one-sided as you believe," I added pointedly, and Soris looked down at me with big eyes, as if he couldn't believe what I was saying.

"Adeline, is this really a good idea?" he hissed under his breath, and I glanced quickly at him.

"No, but I seem to be all out of those today," I muttered back, and he scowled at my glibness.

"Try not to die; I'll run for help!" Soris said suddenly, his eyes darting around for anyone who could help us.

"What? Soris!" I exclaimed, throwing my hands in the air as he turned to run, exasperated at my nervous cousin.

"No need, I am not here to fight you," the man said calmly, holding his hands up to show he meant us no harm. "Still, I find such bravery most impressive…do you not agree, Valendrian?" he remarked, and Soris and I looked over in surprise as the Elder walked over, joining us.

"I would say the world has far more use of those who know how to stay their blades," Valendrian replied, glancing between Soris and myself as we stood, looking up at him in confusion.

"It is good to see you again, my old friend. It has been far too long," the human said, and Valendrian smiled at him, nodding. My face turned bright red as I realized what was going on, and I bowed my head in apology.

"I-I'm sorry, I had no idea…" I apologized nervously, and the man smiled at my flustered expression.

"I was hardly forthcoming, and for that I apologize," the man replied gently.

"May I present Duncan, head of the Grey Wardens in Ferelden," Valendrian introduced, and my eyes widened.

"Grey Warden? Like the one that Mother told me about?" I asked, suddenly excited, and Duncan smiled faintly at my expression.

"Just so," Valendrian replied, glancing back towards Duncan. "But my question remains unanswered. Why are you here, Duncan?" the Elder asked.

"The worst has happened; a Blight has begun. King Cailan summons the Grey Wardens to Ostagar to fight the darkspawn horde alongside his armies," Duncan explained, and Valendrian's face fell.

"Yes…I had heard the news. Still, this is an awkward time. There is to be a wedding – two, in fact," the Elder replied, indicating Soris and me.

"So I see. By all means, attend to your ceremonies. My concerns can wait, for now," Duncan said, glancing back at me.

"Very well. Children, treat Duncan as my guest. And for the Maker's sake, take your places!" Valendrian said, pointing sternly towards the wedding party. We nodded, watching as he went to meet with the priest, the bridesmaids assembling on the platform.

I looked curiously at Duncan, and he smiled when he saw the look in my eye. "Was there something else?" he asked.

"I was wondering how you know the Elder," I replied.

"Valendrian and I have known each other for almost twenty years…since the time I tried to recruit your mother, in fact," he explained, and my eyes widened.

"You were the one she told me about?" I gasped. Mom had told me that before I had been born, a Grey Warden had come to the Alienage, looking to find recruits for the order among the Elves.

"Indeed. Adaia was a fiery woman. She would have made an excellent Grey Warden," Duncan replied, and I bit my lip.

"But…she never said anything about being recruited," I recalled, and Duncan nodded.

"I never made the offer. Valendrian convinced me that it was better for her to remain here with her family. As there was no Blight and thus no immediate need for recruits, I deferred to his wishes," Duncan explained. "But it seems she passed her training on to you, am I right?" he added, and I looked at him with surprise.

"I-I have no idea what you're talking about," I denied quickly, and he smiled faintly.

"Worry not, dear girl. You do not have to trust me, in fact," he replied. "I have already heard a great deal about you, if you must know. But we can speak more of this later. You have a wedding to attend," he added, nodding towards the platform.

"True…" I murmured, looking up as I saw Nelaros and Valora making their way over to the priest. "I look forward to speaking to you later, Duncan," I said, nodding politely.

"As do I," he replied, watching as Soris and I walked towards the rest of the wedding party.

"Ooh! Soris! There you are. I was afraid you'd run off," Valora teased as we took our places. Shianni came over and placed a wedding crown woven from small, white flowers on my brow, grinning at me and winking.

"No, I'm here, with Nelaros's blushing bride in tow!" Soris replied, standing next to Valora and taking her hand.

"You look radiant," Nelaros complimented, and I looked up at him, twining my fingers in his and giving him a reassuring smile.

"You're quite dashing yourself," I replied with a small wink, and he chuckled.

"It looks like everyone's ready," Soris breathed, still a bit nervous.

"Good luck, Soris," I teased quietly, and he rolled his eyes at me.

"You too, Cousin. Maybe it won't be so bad, after all," he replied, and Valora shook her head at him, sighing at his reluctance. Valendrian walked to the center of the platform, looking around at us for a moment before addressing the gathered crowd of Elves.

"Friends and family, today we celebrate not only this joining, but also our bonds of kin and kind," he began, holding his hands out. "We are a free people, but that was not always so. Andraste, the Maker's prophet, freed us from the bonds of slavery," his voice rose over the crowd of gathered Elves, and I spotted my father standing nearby, giving me a small, reassuring smile. "As our community grows, remember that our strength lies in commitment to tradition and to each other," Valendrian finished, glancing over at Mother Boann, who nodded and glanced towards the four of us with a smile.

"Thank you, Valendrian. Now, let us begin," she said, her voice echoing off the nearby buildings, clear and bright. "In the name of the Maker, who brought us this world, and in whose name we say the Chant of Light, I–" the young Mother paused as she saw the look of fear and surprise on our faces, turning around quickly as someone screamed.

The crowd was murmuring and gasping, and children shrieked and ran out of the way as Vaughan, his two lackeys, and a group of armed and armored guards marched through the Alienage, coming right towards us. "Andraste's mercy…" I mumbled, my fingers tightening on Nelaros's as he glared at Vaughan, taking a defensive step in front of me.

"Milord? This is an…unexpected surprise," Mother Boann greeted nervously, confused by the presence of the Arl's son – she probably sensed that this wasn't a friendly visit.

"Sorry to interrupt, Mother, but I'm having a party and we're dreadfully short of female guests," Vaughan said, chuckling darkly as his eyes darted hungrily over the wedding party, lingering on each of the bridesmaids, and on Valora and me.

"Milord, this is a wedding!" Mother Boann asserted indignantly, putting her hands on her hips, and Vaughan marched over to the woman, looming over her threateningly as he shoved nearby Elves roughly aside.

"Ha! If you want to dress up your pets and have tea parties, that's your business. But don't pretend this is a proper wedding," he sneered, glowering at the assembled Elves. "Now, we're here for a good time, aren't we boys?" he asked, and his two lackeys laughed, moving among the wedding party like foxes in a chicken coop.

"Just a good time with the ladies, that's all," one of them grinned crookedly, standing near Nola and Tialla. The girls were staring up at him in fear, clutching tightly to their bouquets of white flowers, loose petals falling off as they shivered.

"Let's take those two, the one in the tight dress, and…where's the bitch that bottled me?" Vaughan asked, looking around for Shianni.

"Over here, Lord Vaughan!" one of his hench-lords called, grabbing Shianni's arms as the girl struggled to get away.

"Let me go, you stuffed-shirt son of a–" she gasped, glaring at the man as he restrained her.

"Oh, I'll enjoy taming her," Vaughan grinned cruelly, glancing over towards me. "And see the pretty bride…" he added, and I glared at him.

"Don't worry. I won't let them take you!" Nelaros said, stepping in front of me.

"But I can't just let them take the others!" I cried, gripping his arm as he glanced back at me.

"Ah, yes…such a well-formed little thing," Vaughan said, his eyes moving lustfully over my body, flashing with cruelty.

"You villains!" Nelaros growled, glaring at the man.

"That's quite enough. I'm sure we all want to avoid further…um, unpleasantness," Vaughan chuckled wickedly.

"If you lay a hand on them, I'll slit your throat!" I hissed, and Vaughan laughed.

"Ha! This one has spirit!" he grinned, slapping me hard across the face and knocking me backwards. "Oh, we're going to have some fun," I heard him say as I stumbled backwards off the pedestal and fell, blacking out as my head hit the dirt.

ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Notes:

* I know that in game, his name is Vaughan Urien, but his wiki entry says that Urien is actually his father's name

Neria is the default name for Surana, I know - I was using it for my Dalish Warden without realizing why it seemed so familiar, and it just sort of stuck.