A/N – Hello. I'm assuming you're here if you read 'Enter the Dragonborn'. If you haven't read that, and you want to understand everything to follow, reading that might help. But you don't have to as I'm sure you'll figure it out rather quickly.

Now, this story was actually a hell of a lot different originally. I'd actually written the entire First Act before changing my mind. Basically, Uhtred was going to continue being a bastard regarding his *ahem* sexual escapades. But I had a change of heart, as even I can admit it was verging on the ridiculous at times, as he was a real man-whore in 'Enter the Dragonborn' until the final third. Not to say I didn't have a blast writing it, and more than enough of you seemed to enjoy it. But, alas, I wanted to keep this T-rated like 'Land of My Fathers' and other stories I've written on this site not M-rated, so that means no sex or swearing, as I think I'm more than capable of writing a story without it.

And for anyone hoping for a real mesh of Dragon Age and Elder Scrolls lore, this story isn't really going to be for you. 'Enter the Dragonborn' was simply 'Dragon Age: Origins', with the Dragonborn tagging along for the ride. This story is simply 'Dragon Age 2' and the same idea. Basically, it's a way of writing Dragon Age stories while keeping a character I grew rather attached to as I wrote 'Land of My Fathers' so, as I said, the previous story, this one, and the next one, are simply Dragon Age based stories with an additional character. However, doing that allows me a certain freedom to fiddle with certain things, though I'll try and remain lore-friendly regarding the Dragon Age setting at least.

Anyway, if you enjoy this, great and I hope I'll pick up another fan or two. If not, well, there are plenty of stories out there you might enjoy instead!

I'll be honest, I still think Aedan was nuts giving me the position. I was a warrior. I had dreamed of battle since I was a young boy. I'd fought my way across Skyrim, killed dragons, saved the world, ended the civil war, and I had thought I'd earned my rest. That was until the day I'd ended up on Thedas. Still can't explain how that happened, particularly as my soul ended up in the body of my doppelganger on Thedas. I wasn't… me, or who I once was. All I can say is that it was the will of the Nine Divines.

But the reason I'd so readily agreed to head to the Kirkwall is that it got me away from Denerim, Ferelden and all the memories of Leliana. She'd left me, you see… No, that's not right. She didn't leave me. Yes, she did return to the Chantry, but she had given her word to an old friend long ago, that she would help her if she needed it. And the favour had been called in. We had spent months together in Orlais after I'd been nothing but a complete bastard during our campaign against the darkspawn. Her choosing to go help her friend was punishment from the Nine Divines AND the Maker for how I had acted. If I had just chosen her, and been loyal to her from the moment I'd met her, she would probably still be by my side.

I'd moped around Denerim for weeks afterwards, finding solace in drink and in the arms of strange women. Not sure how long it had taken before Aedan and Anora pulled me to one side, ordered me to sort myself out, then gave me the new job. They were nuts then, they were still nuts as I was on the verge of leaving, but it got me out of Ferelden and the memories. I guess it might help me in the long run.

I was terribly unfit prior to leaving, so at least spent a couple of weeks working off copious amounts of beer while glad I didn't have any diseases from the women I'd bedded. Not that they were whores, but you just never know with strange women. I guess watching Aedan and Anora fall hopelessly in love with each other didn't help my state of mind, but I was happy, almost proud, to see my brother as king, leader and also husband. And Anora was just as devoted to him in return. The choice we'd made at the Landsmeet certainly proved to be a good one.

The day of departure, I dressed in my finest armour, sheathing the sword against which I'd killed innumerable darkspawn, the same dagger that had probably slit more than a few dozen throats, and my shield, which had kept me alive more times than I'd care to imagine. I had few possessions. I'd lost everything when Rendon Howe had burned the house I'd shared with my long-deceased wife, and saw little point in collecting any mementoes, as I was always on the move.

The King and Queen of Ferelden escorted me all the way to the city gates, an unusual move, but they had no idea when I would return. I embraced Anora gently, but Aedan hugged me rather tightly, causing me to laugh. Seeing him blink rapidly as he let me go did, I'll admit, pull at the heart-strings.

"We've been through a hell of a lot, Uhtred," he said, "It'll be weird not to have you at least close by."

"I'm just across the water. I'm not that far away."

"Far enough. But it will do you some good. You can move on with your life properly."

"Yet I still love her. And I miss her every day."

"But you felt the same way about Serana and your wife. All you can do is lock it away."

"Hmmm. Good advice. I thought that was my job?" We embraced again before I mounted my horse. "Amaranthine, correct?"

Aedan laughed. "Yes, I know exactly what you're going to do when you get there as well."

"Goodbye, Dragonborn," Anora stated. I think she was actually sad I was leaving.

"Majesty," I replied, dipping my head, before looking at Aedan, "Brother."

"Look after yourself, Uhtred. And write often."

"Of course. Good luck to you two as well. Keep me updated on how things are here."

After another round of goodbyes, I dug my heels into the sides of the horse and I took off. The road to Amaranthine was quite busy as trade now flourished between all the major cities and towns of Ferelden. Plenty of merchants selling their wares, but there was also sign that the army was also on manoeuvres. Aedan had passed a law, ensuring there was a large standing army, ready to fight off any further darkspawn incursions, not that there were any, but also any other nation that might have ideas of invasion. He didn't fear Orlais, but knew that some may have looked at a weakened Ferelden after the Blight and licked their lips. He made sure no-one had such ideas now.

Having left Denerim quite early in the morning, I kept the horse near its top speed for most of the journey, so made it to Amaranthine by the time it was growing dark. I didn't head to the city itself but turned off and headed towards Vigil's Keep. I wanted to see some old friends before I left Ferelden.

I was in for a surprise, though. The first thing I noticed upon entering the old fort was the fact most of the soldiers bore the crest of Amaranthine, not the Warden symbol. But many of the soldiers recognised me, and I was soon shaking the hand of everyone once I'd dismounted. Making my way into the keep itself, the lack of Wardens hanging about was almost disconcerting. But there was one Warden I did recognise, who turned and noticed me in return, practically squealed with delight and ran towards me at full pelt, nearly knocking me on my arse when she leapt at me.

"What are you doing? Why are you here? What's going on?" she asked in rapid-fire succession.

"It's a long story. But where is everyone?"

First she dragged me into the fort, heading for the canteen where we could at least enjoy a drink together. There were one or two faces around I didn't recognise, and as for those I'd worked with before, no sign whatsoever. After grabbing a tankard each, I asked the same question of where was everyone.

"Where to begin," Solona replied, "Ohgren and Duran have journeyed to Kal'Hirol to help take the thaig back from the darkspawn. They mentioned the hope that their exile from Orzammar may end with victory. If not, they could at least remain there and simply spend their days killing darkspawn. Neria returned to Denerim and the alienage. She'll try and recruit one or two Wardens. Lyna returned to the Dalish. She's still a Warden in name, but she wanted to go home.

As for those who we met here, Nathaniel is now the Warden-Commander of Amaranthine. He's out on patrol at the moment with a few soldiers. It's not official, but Alistair thought it would help him restore the reputation of the Howe name. Velanna has gone looking for a Dalish clan to join, though she will try and recruit where she can. Anders simply disappeared one evening. No-one has a clue where he's gone. He's the only one we classify as an actual deserter."

"Okay, but what about the important people. Where are Alistair and Brosca? He's the Warden-Commander of Ferelden!"

"Ah, he's been summoned to Weisshaupt, and took Brosca with him. They are still very much in love, after all. I think he was almost tempted to leave her behind, but then figured it wouldn't matter. Their relationship isn't a secret, and if they were not Wardens, I have no doubt they'd already be married."

"Good for them. So you?"

The sigh was one of sadness. "Guess I'm stuck here, to be honest. I will not return to a Circle, that's for sure. Mages are not particularly welcome elsewhere, Warden mages less so. That means I spend most of my days here relatively bored." Then she paused before asking, "Hang on, Uhtred. What are you doing here?" There was a further pause. "And Leliana too?"

"Long story short. Leliana was asked by an old friend to help her in regards to her work within the Chantry. Leliana agreed. She's currently in Val Royeaux."

"Oh…" I think my response actually caught her by surprise. "Did you have any idea?" she wondered.

"None whatsoever. But when it comes to a battle between man and Maker, I guess I was always going to come off second best. I'm not complaining, and the last night we shared was… But I understand her reason why."

"Okay, so why are you here? I thought you'd just stay in Denerim."

"Aedan has given me a job. I'm heading to Kirkwall; the ship is leaving tomorrow. I was actually coming to see you, wondering if you wanted to join me. I know your family is from there, plus it would get you out of here." The smile was instantaneous, so I added, "But we can't… you know… I've done a lot of shit in the past few weeks, and I don't think…"

All she did was hug me. "You thought of me at least, Uhtred. And all I would want is your company."

"It won't be awkward?"

She leaned back, the grin broadening. "Only if you make it awkward. Yes, we have a past. No, we don't have to rekindle what we shared. I hold fond memories of that, and even if Leliana isn't on the scene, I know you're still in love with her. And your heart needs to heal first before you move on."

"Wise beyond your years, Solona."

"Wynne certainly imparted some wisdom during our time together."

We spent the rest of the night catching up, and I didn't even have to explicitly offer her the chance of coming. She would simply be my Warden liaison why I was in the Free Marches. I didn't expect our relationship to restart. That wasn't the reason why I'd thought of her. I remembered her history, plus I did want a familiar face around as I journeyed somewhere foreign.

The boat waiting for us in Amaranthine harbour was a thing of beauty. I had no idea Ferelden even had a navy, but if this boat was an example of what was on offer, then I think Aedan didn't have a thing to worry about. There was a full crew on board, and all of them had obviously been notified of who I was, immediately greeted as 'Lord Uhtred'. I could have spent the entire trip correcting them, but figured it would be a losing battle, so I just accepted it.

I was given the king's quarters, and while Solona did join me, nothing untoward happened during the entire journey. We did sleep in the same bed, but always clothed, and simply chatted away the entire time, like the old friends we were. Perhaps we might have had a yearning to be intimate just one night, but I wasn't really in the right frame of mind, and she never suggested it either, so the entire trip passed without a problem regarding that.

We departed around midday. It was smooth sailing that first day, the sea almost as flat as the Heartlands I'd rode in Orlais. But that almost meant there was little wind, so our progress wasn't as fast as anyone expected. And life on a ship is rather dull. I spent most of my time just pacing the deck, appreciating the sun on my face, listening to the creaks of the ship riding the shallow waves. While I immediately had my sea legs, Solona was well out of her element.

Things got worse the next day, the wind stronger, the sea far rougher. Solona was hanging over the side of the ship, loudly wishing for death, while even the most experienced of sailors was looking ill at times. I thoroughly enjoyed it, the wind and the rain hitting my face, leaving me never feeling more alive. I'm sure the captain and his crew probably thought I was nuts, but considering I'd survived fighting more dragons that I cared to remember, a storm at sea was the least of my worries.

The bad weather only lasted a couple of days before we were greeted with clear skies and a brisk breeze once again. Journey time took around a week, and I think we were all relieved when the crow's nest called out that land had been sighted. Solona and I rushed to the front of the ship, eager to see land once again. You can only take so much water before aching to set foot on dry land once again.

The approach to Kirkwall harbour had us passing enormous statues. I'm sure I wasn't the only one with a sense of foreboding. The one thing I made sure to do before setting out was learn all I could about Kirkwall. Its history was bloody, built on the bodies, bones and blood of Tevinter slaves. It had technically been a free city for over one hundred years, but it seemed to depend on what you called 'free'. I know Solona worried, as although she was a Warden, it was well known that the Templars ran the city.

Our ship docked at the harbour, and I was already fuming. I could see tents as far as the eye could see. I was sure these were the very refugees Aedan had talked about. It had been at least a year and more since the Blight, and these people still hadn't been allowed access. What the hell was going on? Solona recognised I was already pissed off, and though they would be amused at the possible of seeing me shout at whoever was responsible, they reminded me that I was there to get these same people either into the city or back to Ferelden. So I needed co-operation.

A delegation was waiting for us to disembark. I assumed word has been sent previously that I was coming. A bald-headed man, wearing a simple crown, stepped forward to greet me. "Uhtred Dragonborn?"

"Aye."

"I'm Viscount Dumar, ruler of Kirkwall. We are all pleased that Ferelden has chosen to place its embassy to the Free Marches in our city."

"Pleasure. May I introduce Solona Amell. She is a Grey Warden and colleague of mine, here to assist me regarding the repatriation of Ferelden refugees."

"Solona Amell? But that would make you…"

"My mother was Revka Amell. Unfortunately, that's all I really remember as I was taken from my family at a young age."

"So you're a mage?"

"The staff on my back doesn't give that away?"

The Viscount looked at me. "I would urge caution, Ambassador Dragonborn, regarding your mage friend. Warden or not, the templars in Kirkwall are… They keep a close eye on all mages."

"I'm sure we'll be fine. We're here as friends and diplomats. We simply want to help all our Ferelden citizens either return home or make lives for themselves in the Free Marches." I wanted to say a lot more, or ask questions such as 'Why the hell are so many still living in tents on the dock?', left wondering how many others currently lived outside the city walls.

The Viscount was obviously in a hurry to leave the docks, so after thanking the captain and crew for our safe passage, we grabbed our few possessions and were escorted into the city. Aedan had already sent money ahead for the purchase of a building, which would serve as a joint embassy and home for myself. It would be located in an area of the city called Hightown. I know, incredibly imaginative, but Kirkwall was enormous. Far bigger than any city in Ferelden, though nowhere near as large as Val Royeaux. I had a feeling I was going to get lost a number of times before I figured out my way around.

As we walked, the Viscount rambled about the history of the city, which was interesting for a while, but he avoided any recent history, nor did he discuss any current events. That immediately sparked my interest, Solona clearly the thinking the same as myself. But as I wanted to get off on the right foot, I didn't make a big deal of it, simply asking questions about Kirkwall itself.

Ferelden wasn't rich by any means, but it was obvious things were on the up, as the building chosen as our embassy wasn't beautiful nor terribly impressive, particularly compared to many others I could see, but it was certainly a statement of intent. Ferelden was on the rise and a simple building could project its burgeoning power. The Viscount handed me the keys so I was the first to enter. There were already plenty of furnishings available, though one of his aides mentioned there were plenty of markets and stores where we could buy whatever we desired. I just headed straight for the office. It was enormous, and I figured I'd be spending many of my days there. Though I'd been proven wrong before...

The Viscount shook my hand, welcomed me to Kirkwall again, wished me luck then disappeared. One of his aides remained and continued to offer advice. I looked for paper and something to write with, asking Solona to start taking down details.

"Will you be wanting servants?"

"As long as they are just servants, not slaves."

The aide was a little offended by any insinuation of slavery. "Kirkwall hasn't operated slavery for over a hundred years."

"Like Ferelden, but that doesn't stop the practice."

"Fair enough. Servants have all the rights expected. If slavery is assumed, then the matter is dealt with swiftly, the penalties harsh if found to be true."

"Good to know."

"Have you any questions?"

"I've got a few, but they can wait. I think we just want to settle in first."

"Very good. You are obviously here regarding Ferelden refugees. In addition to the camp on the docks, there are further camps outside the city walls. Before you ask, they are protected by city guard, and also mercenaries that the city does pay for, but there are rules and regulations for entrance into the city. We must be careful who we let in."

"Sure, no problem. The first thing I would like to do is visit these camps and start to gather their details. King Aedan is keen to see most of his people return home if possible."

"That won't be a problem. The guard has been notified of who you are. Coming to and from the city will not be a hassle, though if it is, please ask for me."

We shook hands and he disappeared, leaving us to explore the embassy. My office was large, but the function or sitting room was even larger, leaving me to believe that is where I would host events. There was a kitchen to the rear. Upstairs were at least five rooms; I assumed some would be bedrooms, at least.

"You will have the master, Uhtred. I will take one of the other bedrooms."

I gave her a glance. "Organising already, are we?"

The porters dumped our few possessions in the rooms requested before they disappeared as well, leaving us to explore the mansion, though it was empty of life and character, definitely leaving Solona and I that it needed some colour. "What are we doing first?" Solona asked.

"We're doing something I never thought I'd say. We're going shopping. We'll all grab a sheet of paper and jot down what you think we need. Also, we need to find out where we can employ some servants. We also need to make business contacts. Aedan wants coin flowing to Ferelden. Trade is important. That's not really my forte."

"Nor mine, Uhtred. You need someone who had an idea of trade regarding that."

"Okay, here's something you can do. Find out if there's a Warden presence in the city. Would be good having allies like that. Introduce who you are and let them know who I am."

We wandered the embassy for the next hour, writing down things in three lists. What we definitely needed. What we probably needed. And what might make our lives more comfortable, even pleasurable, though not particularly necessary. We didn't have an endless amount of coin, but Aedan had provided enough for us to be comfortable, and would continue to provide assistance when and where he could. But I knew we had to be self-sufficient and start making coin ourselves. Ships would travel between Ferelden and Kirkwall constantly, generally to help any refugees who wanted to return home, but also to help any increase in trade that might happen between the two.

I was a warrior. How the hell did I end up being the possible centre of trade dealing and a diplomatic mission? Whatever the cause, I was definitely going to try and enjoy the experience. This wasn't like Amaranthine, which I begrudgingly accepted. I was going to throw myself into this job whole-heartedly. I think getting away from Ferelden and all the memories definitely helped.

The two of us headed out a little later. It didn't take long for word to pass around about who I was and what I was doing. Offers were soon flooding in, even as we wandered the markets. Solona was under orders to be sensible regarding her purchases, but she was generally free to buy what she thought was necessary. And if she really wanted to treat herself to something, she could as long as it was reasonable.

Of course, I ended up perusing the weapons stores, my eyes running some beautiful blades, shields of intricate pattern and designs, and armour that looked ready to stop even speeding projectiles, travelling faster than time itself. I didn't buy any but I could help browse.

"You're a warrior?" one dwarven merchant asked, "You look like one."

"Thanks. I was. I'm now an ambassador. From Ferelden."

"From Ferelden? So you would know of Orzammar?"

"Know it. Been there."

"Heard the latest news?"

"No, what's happened?"

"King Bhelen is securing trade with the surfacers and is apparently making strides regarding the whole caste system. Orzammar is being turned upside down!"

"You disagree?"

"No, of course not. With the old rules, I could never return. But Bhelen is putting together laws that would allow those who have seen the sun to return home." He paused before adding, "Though the whole Harrowmont deal leaves a bad taste in the mouth."

I knew exactly what he was talking about, remembering his threats of retribution. "I assume it was bloody?"

"From what I've learned, the Harrowmont line barely exists any longer. Bhelen put everyone to the sword."

"Bastard," I muttered.

"A price to pay for his more… liberal ideas, I think. From what I've heard, if Harrowmont had won, it would have become increasingly conservative."

"What's your name?"

He held out his hand. "Naric… and you are?"

"Uhtred Dragonborn." I left Ferelden giving up the Cousland name. I wasn't really one of them. I was from Skyrim. And I was definitely Dragonborn.

"Dragon-what?"

I couldn't help chuckle. "It's a long story, but that's my name."

"Would you like to purchase anything?" he asked, no doubt hoping for a sale.

"Not right now. But you sell goods from Orzammar?"

"I have one or two trading partners. I try to sell only the best."

"I will be in Kirkwall for the foreseeable future, Naric. I tell you what, you let me know whenever you get a shipment, and I'll see what I can do. I'm always interested in purchasing a better weapon or armour."

"Of course, ambassador. I'll send someone to let you know right away."

"Not ambassador. By the Nine, I hope people don't call me that. I'm either Uhtred or Dragonborn."

The dwarf laughed. "As you say, Dragonborn. As you say."

We spent at least a couple of days getting the embassy into shape before beginning any real work. The office was large, and needed decoration. We hung a flag above the door outside. We purchased pictures and hung them on the wall. We bought plenty of used books and filled shelves in both the office and the function room. Most of it was just for show, but we had to think of ways to show Ferelden power and prestige. The pair of us knew the reputation of our country wasn't great, particularly compared to nations such as Orlais or Tevinter.

The Embassy of Ferelden received its first visitor after three days. She was a native of Ferelden though was now living in Kirkwall. We had no servants, in the process of employing some, so it was Solona who answered the door and brought our visitor through. "This is Aveline Vallen, Ambassador Dragonborn."

Sat at the desk, I made sure I walked around the desk to shake her hand. "Pleased to make your acquaintance, Aveline."

"And yours, ambassador."

"Please, take a seat. And call me Uhtred. No need for titles here."

"Would you like a drink?" Solona offered.

"I'll have a little wine, please."

"Uhtred?"

"Nothing for me. Thank you, Solona."

"You're welcome."

Once Aveline had a glass of wine in hand, I simply asked, "How can I help you? In fact, what's your story? As you're probably aware, the embassy has just opened and we haven't even begun to get down to the business of why we're actually here."

"It's a long story, Uhtred. A long story. What do you know of the Blight?"

"Fought in it alongside my brother, the King of Ferelden."

I watched the eyes widen in surprise. "You're a Cousland?"

"No. Well, I am… but I'm not. I have a long story of my own. It will take longer than the rest of the day to explain it."

"But you fought in the Blight?"

"All across Thedas, from Orzammar and Redcliffe, all the way to Fort Drakon and the defeat of the Archdemon. What of yourself?"

"I'm originally from Lothering. I was with King Cailan's army at Ostagar. My husband and I barely escaped with our lives."

My heart immediately went out to her. Lothering had been destroyed, and I knew in the time since the end of the Blight, there was already a realisation that it would never be rebuilt. The land had been completely tainted. In that regard, the darkspawn had won. "I'm sorry."

"I made my way here…"

"I?"

She nodded. "My husband was killed as we escaped Lothering when the darkspawn descended upon the village. It is there that we met Hawke. She too suffered loss during the escape."

"Who's that?"

The smile suggested everything. "Someone you will definitely want to meet, Uhtred. But that is for later. What is the situation in Ferelden? The Blight has been defeated, but what else?"

"Well, there is a new king. Aedan Cousland. His rule has generally been accepted. He's even quite popular in some circles. He married Anora, Cailan's widow. They are a good couple, very much in love, and rule Ferelden with a sense of fairness and justice for all. They generally try to do the right thing for everyone. As for the darkspawn, they've been utterly defeated, and after meeting a new type of darkspawn while I was Arl of Amaranthine, there is a chance there will never be another Blight. Only a chance, but there is hope."

"You were an arl?"

"Only temporarily. It was boring. But I like to think I did a good job."

"So what brought you to Kirkwall?"

"People like yourself. Kirkwall is surrounded by camps, full of refugees. The king would like his people to return home. The darkspawn menace has receded, if not disappeared."

"Many would probably like to return home. People such as myself, not so much. I lost everything and I've made myself a life here. I'm a member of the Kirkwall City Guard. It's a good life."

"Why are the qunari here?" I asked suddenly.

Aveline returned a knowing grin. "Ah, so that's why you're really here."

"A second reason. The first is definitely the refugees. But the king wants to know. Are the qunari getting ideas?"

"Their ship definitely foundered in the rocks surrounding Kirkwall, so that part of their story is true. As to why they are still here, no-one can figure that out. Surely someone would have sent a search party for them?"

"Does anyone think they intend to invade Kirkwall?"

"At the moment, no. But the arishok barely allows visitors. They keep to themselves for the most part."

"Do you think they'll meet me? I have experience dealing with qunari. Well, one anyway."

"They might agree to meet an ambassador. But as they are in Kirkwall and not Ferelden, they'll definitely wonder what you want."

"And what does the Viscount think?"

She chewed on that question silently for a few seconds. "I cannot speak my opinion freely considering he's the man who agrees to pay me coin."

"I understand."

"What do you think of Kirkwall?" she asked in return.

"I haven't really been here long enough to have an opinion."

"You'll certainly find it interesting, Uhtred."

"So no desire to return home?"

"None whatsoever. Kirkwall is home now. You might find it your home soon enough."

I didn't know whether to believe if Kirkwall would ever feel like home. But it would certainly be my home for however many years to come.

A/N – Hawke is only briefly mentioned, and you might have noticed I referred to her as 'she'. About time I wrote about a main female character.

I have numerous projects going at the moment for various sites, so while uploads might be semi-frequent for a short while, things will eventually slow down as I will generally focus on one story at a time, at least up to a certain point.