The Blight is ended and Istabella Cousland deals with the emotional aftermath of Alistair's sacrifice and death. This is Istabella's story after the Blight that including her journal entries. Pat 1 of a Two Part Series.

Sam is the most promising swordsman among this year’s crop of Paladin trainees...and knows it. Brash, cocky, and unbeatable with a sword (well, almost), Sam is the kingdom of Thule’s best hope against the violence wrought by demons. The only problem is that Sam is really Lady Samantha, daughter of the seventeenth Duke of Haywood, and if her father has his way, she’ll be marrying a Paladin, not becoming one. But Sam has never held much interest in playing damsel-in-distress, and so she rescues herself from a lifetime of boredom and matrimonial drudgery. Pity that Tristan Lyons, the Paladin assigned to train her, is none other than the hero of her childhood. He hasn’t recognized her as Lady Samantha--yet-- but if he does, he’ll take away her sword and send her packing. Sam is not the only trainee hiding secrets: Braeden is a half-demon with a dark past that might be unforgivable. Sam, Braeden and Tristan set out for the western coast, charged with rooting out an infestation of demons that has made the West unlivable. As they travel, they uncover a deep-seated corruption of power that threatens to derail everything they stand for. Rebellion stirs, led by a rival faction of warriors who tempt Sam to join them with an irresistible offer. A war between men is coming, and Sam must pick a side. Will saving the kingdom cost her life -- or just her heart? Reminiscent of Mulan, but with a medieval fantasy twist, Paladin is a tale of adventure, action, and romance.

Celia is just a poor peasant girl living on the outer boundaries of the King's castle. Her whole life, she's watched the people of that home move about, especially the young Prince Rupert. One day, the two meet by accident and suddenly, young, poor Celia is thrust into a world that she never could have imagined herself in. As their relationship progresses and becomes public knowledge, Celia finds out that being in the spotlight is hazardous to her safety. She is kidnapped away from the kingdom and the loving protection of her betrothed and his soldiers. Will Celia ever return to the safe embrace of her royal love?

Alistair goes on the run after being exiled by the new king, Aelil Cousland. He expects to get out of Ferelden with no trouble. However a chance encounter with two apostate mages changes that and takes him on another whirlwind journey through Thedas.