Anora

"We have been given the gift of freedom by our forbearers. Let us not squander it."

Anora Theirin (née Mac Tir) is the wife of King Cailan Theirin and daughter of Loghain Mac Tir. She is the Queen of Ferelden, a consummate ruler and committed to ensuring economic security for Ferelden.

Background
Anora was born to the Teyrn of Gwaren and his wife, a former cabinetmaker named Celia. After growing up she was eventually being betrothed to the young Prince Cailan. But as a child, Anora began to display many characteristics which did not fade in adulthood: she was imperious and domineering, refusing to play with other children and leading her betrothed around like a puppy on a leash. Yet she also exhibited charm, intelligence and a fierce sense of independence.

Anora eventually married Prince Cailan and though the two were fast friends, the marriage was initially one of convenience rather than true love. Though that friendship eventually blossomed into love, Anora always viewed her husband as a fool, lovable and charming, but a fool nonetheless. Upon Cailan's accession, Anora assumed most of the monarchical duties her husband shirked; though she did not rule in her own name, there was no doubt who really ruled Ferelden. Despite five years of marriage, Anora failed to produce an heir, leading to rumors that she is barren.

Anora's strongest bond is with her father, whom she views as a role model and who knows her better than anybody in the world. Indeed, one reason why Anora finds so many unimpressive is that they inevitably fail to live up the exceptional standard she holds: that of her father.

Involvement
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Dragon Age: Origins
Anora is deeply saddened by the demise of her husband at the Battle of Ostagar, though she stands beside her father as he proclaims himself regent. She continues to perform the duties of a ruler, seeing to the day to day administration of the realm, though for the first time cracks began to emerge between her and her father. Anora eventually confronts Loghain, strongly suspecting that it was in fact he that had been responsible for Cailan's death.

Soon after the Warden and Arl Eamon of Redcliffe's arrival in Denerim, Arl Rendon Howe, Loghain's closest lieutenant, accuses Anora of treason and imprisons her in his estate. Anora dispatches her servant Erlina in secret to meet with Arl Eamon and the Warden. The latter storms Howe's estate, rescuing Anora, who then flees to Arl Eamon's estate. Anora begins to actively work against her father following her rescue, being the first to suggest that the Warden should investigate the Elven Alienage in Denerim, as she has suspicions that Loghain may be behind the unrest there.

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Quotes

 * "I realize that my... actions at Howe's estate may not have painted me in the best light. For that I apologize, and hope that we can start again."
 * "I have ruled this nation on Cailan's behalf for many years. I am a great queen, and as beloved by my people as I love them."

Trivia

 * In Bioware's character file for her, Anora's appearance is described as: "Beautiful. Slim."
 * Writer Sheryl Chee has said that when going out for a drink Anora would "skip the beer and go straight to tequila shots."
 * Writer David Gaider states that, "the most important thing to know about Anora is that she is her father's daughter."
 * When Anora is first seen by the party, she is wearing guard armor. The Warden may say "Aren't you a little short for a guard?" This is similar to what Princess Leia said upon first meeting Luke Skywalker in Star Wars, who was wearing Stormtrooper armor at the time. If a dwarf or elf uses this line, Anora points out the irony.