landsmeet

Landsmeet is a term used to describe a formal political gathering of nobility in certain fantasy settings, most notably within the Dragon Age universe. The assembly brings together the leading lords, ladies, and regents of a realm to discuss state matters, confirm or decide succession, debate laws, and authorize major policies or treaties. The event is typically both ceremonial and practical, granting legitimacy to decisions through a structured, publicly witnessed process.

In Dragon Age: Origins, the Landsmeet is a central late-game event in Ferelden. Following the death of King Cailan, the noble houses convene in the capital city of Denerim to determine Ferelden’s succession and the future direction of the realm. The player character, a Warden, can influence the outcome by gathering support, presenting evidence, and persuading factions. The principal choices usually revolve around which candidate gains the throne—most prominently Alistair, a Grey Warden with a rightful claim, or Loghain Mac Tir, a powerful noble with his own agenda. The decision is presented as a vote or consensus among the nobles and has lasting political consequences for the game’s ending and Ferelden’s stability.

The Landsmeet is portrayed as a showcase of courtly diplomacy and political maneuvering, emphasizing rhetoric, alliances, and loyalties over open combat. While closely associated with Dragon Age, the concept of a landsmeet appears in other fantasy works as a high-level assembly of noble houses convened to decide governance, succession, or major policy.