A/N Hey guys I'm back, sorry it's been 2 days past a month since I've posted a chapter for this story, and to all of you reading this I thank you for not writing me off.
First off let me hash the details for why it has been delayed so long: 1) October was a bitch and I have college/job duties to attend to which totally blows. 2) I moved into a new apartment and it takes a while to get comfortable in a new place as yo all know. And finally 3) I have been replaying Dragon Age Origins and Dragon Age 2 in my free time to get even more psyched than I already am for Inquisition (Which I don't think I could be more psyched). So those are my top 3 reasons.Also with that being said when the game comes out I'll try my best to vary times between enjoying it and writing more chapters for this story. So enjoy this tidbit.
Also while I'm here I'd like to thank craig mills for help with the dream sequence.
On one more note I want 10 comments from people before I post the next chapter please and thank you!
An eerie glow emanating from the lava river and waterfall allowed Aiden to see the ancient crumbling buildings covered in webs that clung to the spaces between them. The new Warden found for all of its uncertainty that the beauty in such things as the light which bounced off various crystals making them glow brilliantly adding to the warmth of the never ending tunnel in which he found himself. Walking over to the enchanting warmth of the glowing hot river Aiden peered into it letting the warmth wash over him. Never had he felt so calm but as his body relaxed so too did his mind.
As he gazed into the glowing river a distorted voice called out to him from the darkest reaches of the thaigs, echoing down each tunnel seeming to be charging from everywhere. It seemed to be a beautiful tune that he didn't know the words to. So enchanting was this song that his feet moved without consent towards the voice, and though he didn't know where to go his feet surely did.
Trekking him farther and farther into darkness the voice swelled in volume seeming to consume the entire void in which captive to himself he tread. Then with one last turn the smell of smoke overwhelmed him as a monstrosity hid in the shadows. Abruptly his feet stopped dead in their tracks as crimson red circled in yellow opened to reveal the beast's eyes. In that moment he felt no fear nor cowardice, for in that moment as the Archdemon's eyes preyed upon him Aiden was more awestruck than anything. Never before had he seen such a ferocious yet mesmerizing creature in all of his travels. Slowly noticing the regaining of control of his own body the young Warden meant to dodge the foreseen attack however before any move could be made the huge beast reared its head revealing bloodstained yellow razors set in gaping maws and roaring a deafening cry.
The roar reverberated through him to his very bone and ran down the many tunnels of the deep roads still echoing as he made to roll away but before he could the brute of a creature bristled spitting purple flames onto his body. Wracked with pain Aiden dropped to his knees gazing up to the old god as he burned, every bit of pain he felt Aiden watched as his skin charred and the stench of his own flesh filled his lungs. Gaging he forced himself to stand in defiance of his attacker. With one last defiant look he allowed the Archdeomon's roar to wash over him as the world went black.
Lurching up drenched in sweat Aiden's heart raced a mile a minute still able to smell his own burning flesh and the pain of the flames as they slithered around him in a vile manner. Bringing his knees up to his chest the man rested his arms on them and his head as well taking in deep calming breaths. Well, that was some dream, well more like a nightmare, he thought with a heavy sigh. Carefully calming himself he sprawled back out onto the dust and hay ridden floor. Its coolness soothed his burning skin and eased his troubled mind. Draping his elbow over his eyes he tried to slip back into sleep but it eluded him like the fox it was. Aggravated that rest was no longer an option he peeled himself from the floor.
Stepping over to the door it creaked as he opened it to find slits of orange rising in the horizon against the dark blue night. Stepping out into the morning the air was chill evident from his breath fogging in the air like smoke. Everything was silent and still, he dared not to move for if time was frozen in this moment he could live with it forever. Crossing his arms he leaned back against the doorway right on the spot Morrigan had healed last night. Shrugging off the slight pain he continued to bask in the calm for all he could, little did he know golden eyes watched from afar.
Morrigan had been up for the past hour going over what information she had thus far and how she would use it to her advantage. It was while she was doing this that muffled cries of agony came from the vacant hut Aiden had occupied. Curious about the commotion she stopped and listened. Little did she learn about what was going on by listening so she opted to stop for a time when his cries stopped. It is a wonder he has not waken the whole village, she mused to herself.
Deciding that making potions would be far more productive than sitting and repeating what is already known to her Morrigan left her own area to the nearby lake to collect wood for a fire. Picking up an armful she was walking back when she noticed movement in the corner of her eye. Stopping dead the witch observed the body looking out at the horizon. Following his direction she too looked back to find the light rays beginning to peek out over the land.
Turning back away she shook her head and moved on deciding to again ignore him, though her curiosity was at a high she needed to be prepared for whatever was to come, and knowing what she did he too would have to prepare himself for the trials ahead. I only hope he can accomplish such a task she commented while laying the sticks in a circle then flicking her wrist igniting the wood before her.
Planting herself down she crossed her legs reaching into her pouch pulling out a small kettle, herbs, and flasks filled with water. Adding the kettle atop the fire she poured in the water then added elfroot to start the process. Once finish she swiped her hands together putting what little flakes of the herb remained into the pot she looked up to see Aiden now leaning back against the doorway. Returning to the task at hand she brewed in silence.
Still looking out at the horizon pondering and imagining his revenge a cold nose nuzzling his leg withdrew him from his thoughts. Looking down a small smile graced the man's lips as he uncrossed his arms and scratched Bax behind the ear, "Morning boy," he whispered not wanting to shatter the silence.
Barking happily Bax jumped in front of his mast head down and ass in the air wanting to play, "Oh alright, go get a stick and we'll play," he chuckled shooing the hound off who went off in the direction of Morrigan. Seeing where his hound was headed his hand met his forehead and grumbled an 'oh no' under his breath as he went after his hound. Shit if he wakes her up I'm done for, and won't even have had the chance to exact my revenge, lovely. He thought dryly still behind his hound by a few good yards.
Coming upon his hound however he couldn't keep a smile from his face, "Why you wretched dog! Those were my herbs you gluttonous flea ridden beast!" Morrigan shouted reprimanding Bax as she pulled on her satchel full of ingredients while Bax held on with a steely grip.
Growling playfully he shook his head thinking it was a game as Morrigan's grip slipped and ended up in the dirt. Glaring at the dog who was licking his chops a quiet slow clap came from the shadows. Snapping her head in the direction the sound came from a relieved sigh escaped her lips as the fire light showed it was only Aiden.
"I see he likes you." he nodded to the dog, "Interesting." Patting Bax on the head he gently moved the satchel away from the war hound and handed it back Morrigan before sitting down himself.
Scoffing at the man she ignored his presence and that of his dogs while he stirred what was already in her pot. Biting his lip Aiden allowed his presence to go unwanted as all that surrounded the three was the crackling fire. In truth he didn't feel like being alone after the dream he had, it's not that he was scared, but rather the enormity of the duty he as having to undertake along with his own personal vendetta. Staring into the fire he didn't even notice that Morrigan had laid down while the potions brewed until her arm slightly grazed his leg. Startled he looked down to her; shadows from the fire dancing along her pale skin.
Feeling his eyes on her Morrigan smirked allowing the fires warmth to wash over her, "Something you like?" she finally acknowledged his presence.
Shyly Aiden removed his eyes, though he didn't mean anything by it he didn't want her to get the wrong idea, "Listen Morrigan I'm not one to talk about my past but it would be wise not to pursue what you're doing."
Rolling her eyes the witch edged up on her elbows, "Very well, then you should be off before you decide otherwise."
"I deserved that," he admitted rising from the dry ground dusting himself off, "Tell you what, I'll leave. In fact I'll go for a walk, I'm sure Bax still wants to play fetch. Right Bax?" he questioned the hound who came bounding up to him happily.
Pursing her lips the glare she gave the Warden could have killed, "Since you'll be exploring pick me up some herbs as well to replace what your fur bag has eaten."
Bowing his head as he left Bax looked back at the witch a happy bark expressing his fullness and thanks or the herbs before bounding off behind his friend. Following along the fence from yesterday the young Warden found a stick worth throwing. Picking it up he gripped it in his hand then launched it through the air sending it skidding halfway to the windmill. Following up behind Bax Aiden skidded to a halt when the low whispers of another nearby could be heard.
"Shok ebasit hissra," the voice grew louder as Aiden silently approached well aware of the man's height and dialect he could only guess it was a Qunari, "Meraad astaarit, meraad itwasit, aban aqun. M-"
In full view of the man praying the young Warden found himself to be correct. In a cage five feet from him was a Quanari, " Maraas shokra. Anaan esaam qun." he voiced finishing the caged man's prayer and gaining notice as well.
"Maraas shokra. Anaan esaam qun." the voice finished for him. Grimly peering to the direction from which it came he was shocked to see a human, but it was a nice change compared to the usual bunch that came around.
"You aren't one of my captors," Gripping the iron bars encasing him Sten tightened his grip, "I have nothing to say that would amuse you human. Leave me in peace."
Pulling out his knife Aiden came closer and pulled an apple he'd confiscated earlier at some point, "And I do not wish to be amused Qunari, but I would like to know what one of your kind is doing in a cage, in a village like this no less." Cutting a slice he handed the piece to Sten who looked at it warily. Understanding the prisoner's reluctance he took the bite for himself audibly swallowing and then offered another piece to the caged Qunari.
Nodding to the human in kind Sten plucked the slice from the Wardens fingers taking a healthy bite from it. Once done he simply stared trying to decide whether or not to speak with the armored man. Is he here to kill me? No otherwise he would have already done so. Then perhaps he is a soldier from the armies that passed looking to recruit capable warriors. That would not explain his understanding of the Qun though. Hmm…
Waiting for the Qunari to make up his mind Aiden simply relaxed against the fence throwing the stick Bax brought back every time he threw it, knowing that eventually the caged prisoner or himself would speak. In this case it was the former.
"I am Sten of the Beresaad- the vanguard- of the qunari peoples."
Nodding his head at the information he was given and knowing that the qunari people respect honor among most anything he wondered why a creature such as he was captive, "And why are you in this?" he motioned to the cage with his knife tilting up and down.
"I have been convicted of murder. Have the villagers not spoken of this?" he followed up his answer with his own question.
Snorting a laugh Aiden shook his head, Great, "I don't have my ear that far to the ground sadly. So who did you murder?"
Releasing his bars Sten stood tall not holding back, "The people of a farmhold. Eight humans, in addition to the children."
Holding in the want to reach out and throttle the man Aiden held back. He knew as well as the qunari no doubt that atonement could be given, if he was truly wanting it, "Are you guilty?" the words were ground out and harsh.
"Are you asking if I feel guilt, or if I am responsible for the deed? However I feel, whatever I've done, my life is forfeit now."
Gazing up at the giant before him Aiden could understand this man. He was harsh on himself and he did feel what he'd done was wrong, so why do it? "If you feel guilty about the murder why'd you do it?"
His answer and reply was simple, "Either you have an enviable memory, or a pitiable life, to know nothing of regret."
"I understand, maybe more than most would, but why not seek atonement for what you have done?" If he can atone then so can I. I left my parents and my family to rot in its halls, but perhaps I can help another seek the atonement they deserve.
"Death will be my atonement-"
"Dammit Sten, no it shall not. You have a chance to atone without the need of your own death. I know you can atone for yourself if you aid me against the Blight." And by helping me you are also furthering my goals, which we won't be discussing anytime soon. He added to himself.
Regarding the human more closely now Sten could see there was something unlike the other soldiers about him. Something darker. Perhaps he is a Warden then? "Are you a Grey Warden then?"
"Not by choice, but yes." Aiden chuckled handing Sten another piece of the apple who happily or as happily as Aiden could tell accepted it.
"Surprising," eating the slice he gestured to Aiden, "My people have heard legends of the Grey Warden's strength and skill… though I suppose not every legend is true."
Giving a guttural laugh Aiden nearly choked on the fruit, "Thanks that was funny." Wiping away the bits that fell onto his chin Aiden just noticed the sun was fully over the horizon and Chantry goers were leaving their homes commuting to the one place Aiden hated more than most. However looking back at his new acquaintance he knew there was only two ways to get him out and one would be more fun than the other. Slyly smiling to Sten Aiden spoke quickly, "I'm going to get the key to your cage, and I'll be right back."
"Doubtful," his low voice replied as Aiden vanished along with his dog.
Leliana was quietly packing her things and putting on the armor she once wore many times long ago when she was a bard. Lacing up the leather gloves she was about to lose herself in concentration when the doors burst open wide to reveal Aiden fully armored and marching towards the Revered Mother with Bax, Morrigan, and a panicky Alistair in tow. Maker, please no… was all she thought as she darted to stop them. Too late however she showed up.
The Revered Mother in her usual spot kindly smiled up at the man who was marching towards her with haste, "Greetings child-"
"Save your Maker laden prayers for someone who needs them," Aiden growled.
Shocked by his manners she was about to call for the Templar's when she spotted Leliana and waved her over. Begrudgingly making her presence known the lay sister joined the group much to her dismay, "Revered Mother," she nodded in respect and then the same with Aiden, smart to keep his organization quiet, "Would you kindly lower your voice and speak with her in a more respectful manner."
Whipping his head to the side she received an icy glare so cold it felt as if the fires weren't even lit, "Respect is earned not given." he declared turning his gaze back to the mother.
"Then I shall kindly ask you to leave," she spoke unfazed by his actions.
Looking from him to his followers then back to the mother Leliana didn't know whether to prepare for a fight or for a close call. Rather than find out later though she threw more oil onto the fire without knowing so, "Aiden please leave. If you're just here to antagonize an old woman you have no business here."
Obviously ignoring her Aiden was still going, "No I need something from you."
Moving to stand in between the Warden and Mother before it came to blows Leliana stared him down, "I think she asked you to leave."
Moving her out of the way he towered over the old woman, "Give me the key to Sten's cage or else…"
Pursing her lips the mother was unamused, "Oh, and what shall you do to an innocent woman?"
"Fine, by order of the Grey Warden's I hereby conscript Sten into the Warden's. Now give me the key or this will get ugly and I'm not above hurting anyone."
Rising from her seat the Revered Mother capitulated, "Very well, but the Maker has no room for the likes of you by his side." Giving him the key he snatched it from her hands and walked away.
"The Maker doesn't exist. The sooner you realize this the sooner you can stop living in delusions." He called from over his shoulder not even looking back.
Sighing in relief the red head hadn't even known she was holding her breath. However upon closer inspection of the Mother she saw how much of a toll the Warden's words had taken on her, "Are you alright?" she asked tentatively helping the woman sit back down.
"I'm fine dear, but it still amazes me how little faith some have in the Maker, especially in these times." Looking to where the man had left the Mother followed her gaze, "Help him if you can. You believe more than most and sometimes that's enough."
"I follow him of my own volition, Revered Mother. Not because he needs the Maker." she voiced returning to her own duties before leaving, "thank you for helping me and should we not meet again may the Maker watch over you."
"And you as well Leliana."
"Was that really necessary?" Alistair questioned astonished at Aiden's actions grabbing him by the shoulder and turning him around violently causing him to hit one of the pews.
Glaring at the senior Warden Aiden cracked his fist inching closer to the blonde, "So help me Alistair if you preach one word of what I did was wrong I will leave you and your witch here to fend off the Darkspawn yourselves. I have more important matters to attend to, understood?" Feeling the weight of Aiden's words heavily on him all Alistair could do was nod and avoid eye contact, "Good, now let's go."
Before they made it to the doors however Alistair ended up running into a knight from Redcliffe, but it wasn't just any knight," Sorry- Ser Donall?"
"Alistair?" the Knight questioned with a happy face embracing the man, "It's been-"
"Years," the other finished for him, "But what are you doing here?"
Turning around before leaving Aiden saw Alistair having idle conversation with another knight, "Alistair, let's go now."
Groaning the Redcliffe native knew they may want to hear what Donall had to say, "He's a knight from Redcliffe with information on the Arl. It couldn't hurt to see what he knows now could it?"
"Fine, but make it quick." he waltzed over, "This chantry will kill me faster than the Darkspawn." Holding out his hand Donall clasped and shook with a powerful force.
"Nice to meet your acquaintance, but I must make this short, for the arl has fallen ill."
"Oh great," Aiden mumbled, "And this wouldn't have happened sometime before the battle at Ostagar now would it?" he asked sensing some connecting dots.
"Yes, but-"
"Loghain, you moron. He left the king to die and made something happen so the Arl would fall 'ill' as you put it so he could take the throne. Politics. Nobles and their righteous fucking politics." Aiden growled in anger kicking the wooden shelf near them and breaking it.
"If the Arl's sick we need to see him first." Alistair added.
"Why not go after your enemy directly?" the witch had a point.
"Like he wouldn't be expecting that right?" Alistair fought back.
"Enough!" the shout echoed through the room silencing all who were within its walls, "If the Arl's sick what are you doing here?"
"The Arlessa sent all of the Knights out to find the urn of sacred ashes. Its legend says the urn holds those of Andraste and can cure any ailment."
Running his hands through his hair Aiden paced before them deciding what to do, "Thank you for the information but we should really be on our way." Making for the door no one would stop them this time.
Once in the light of the open area he spotted a merchants wagon advertising some bows, arrows, and faceplate helmets right across from the Chantry. Well I will be needing some ranged weapon sooner or later right? Never looking back he marched off to the merchant wagon closely followed by his company which now included a sister decked out in leather armor of her own. Inspecting the helmets the merchant had he spied one that seemed durable enough while also able to cover his face, as well as a bow and arrows that would come in handy later on.
"Won't that obstruct your vision?" Leliana question in regards of the helmet.
Grunting in reply Aiden tossed out a few coins to pay for the helm before putting it on. In truth it would hinder his sight some, but when he saw the faceplate helmets the words from yesterday's fight seeped into him mind 'Your face is known boy! Everywhere you go your face is known and will be hunted until you're dead or worse. You are a failure, a deserter, and you have no one left!' No matter where they went they would know his face, and to ensure optimal outcome he would hide from the world until like the Archdemon during a blight he was ready to reveal himself. Happy with his purchases the Warden strode towards the outskirts of town to Sten's cage.
"I must admit I didn't expect her to give up the key so willingly."
Shrugging Aiden deftly slid the key into the lock and freed Sten from his cage. As he stepped down it appeared that both Aiden and Sten were almost equal in height with the former being at least three inches shorter. Nodding to Sten's thanks he handed him a pack and a sack filled with heavy armor he confiscated off a dead bandit.
"Alright everyone we have to unite this god forsaken country and do it before the Blight catches up with us. And because I am leader by experience I say we recruit the elves first since the Brecilian forest is closer."
"But what about the arl?" Alistair pointed out with a little more desperation in his words than he meant to reveal.
Turning his map so the other Warden could study it he pointed to two locations, "The forest is here, and Redcliffe is here. Which is closer?"
"The forest but-"
"The Arl will have to wait. This war is won by sacrifice and if that means we lose one noble then so be it," his words cut like ice in the winter as he rolled up his map, "Also one more thing I must mention: my past is my own and none of you shall ask of it. Any questions?" Silence was the groups answer as the ex-lord folded up the map, storing it in his pack, "Good, now let's get a move on, we haven't any time to waste." Turning on his heel Aiden took the lead at an acceptable pace followed by five others on separate missions.
Looking back over his shoulder Aiden knew part of the real reason he didn't want to go to Redcliffe first. Yes it was a more tactical decision to gain the forces of allies that were closer to their current location, but also seeing Eamon again would not set well with him. Last time the two saw each other he was competing in the annual tourney held in the arling, which he won. Time however and certain events change people though. I just hope he can hang on until we get there.
The village of Lothering was small, but passing by the old windmill the bard had come accustomed to was rather displeasing. She felt as if it would be the last time she set foot on the land that gave her a home, a refuge, and a place she could be someone else. Stopping to pay the town the respects she thought it deserved she turned back around to see the group still steadily marching on Jogging to catch back up she silently took place by Alistair who was by all means pouting about their leaders decision to gather the elves first.
"Oh, cheer up," she smiled sweetly, "you look like the Darkspawn have already won."
Frowning at her comment he just sighed before allowing himself to speak, "It's just that he doesn't seem to know too much about why Eamon would be the better choice to save first."
Piqued by his observations she glanced up front to see Aiden and Sten in deep conversation making sure they wouldn't be eavesdropped, "Oh, and you do? And what makes you think he doesn't?"
Shifting his pack Alistair considered her questions carefully, "Well before I was a Warden I was to become a Templar, and they teach us things besides how to defend against mages, so that's how I know about politics. In regards to him though I say it only because he seems to want to avoid any topic of the Arl at all costs, and I am to associate that with not understanding how politics works."
"So, let me get this straight," she smiled cunningly, "He avoids talking about the Arl so he must be inept in the ways of politics?"
"Yep, that about sums it up." He smiled proudly lifting his head a little higher.
Lightly Laughing at his new bolstered confidence she felt bad that she was about to bring him back down from his new perch, "Or maybe he used to be a killer. Wardens are not frivolous in who they recruit. I mean think about it; one, he didn't want anyone talking about his past. Two, he avoids conversation of politics because he was an assassin, and three, well I haven't come up with a third yet."
Glancing at her sideways the Templars jaw slightly dropped the closed pondering what Leliana had theorized, "Well, maybe but…"
"If you two would so kindly stop talking about me and trying to guess where I came from or what I was in the past that would be much appreciated, or at least keep your voices down." Aiden called from the head of the group as they were just making their way past the Imperial Highway instead opting to go northwest towards the forest.
Giving each other looks of 'didn't see that coming' both Leliana and Alistair kept their mouths shut and instead focused on other things around them. When their focus turned into boredom however Aiden's life would quickly became hell.
A/N
So was it as good for you as it was for me? I mean it was kinda slow but hey very story has it's ups and downs. How'd you like it though? What could I change and did I capture the characters well or no?
Well this chapter is done and the next is already ready to go, all I need is those 10 comments about my story that are more than 'keep up the good work or 'nice job'. I want to know exactly what y'all think of this story please the good, bad, or the awesome and if you are so compelled to either follow or favorite as well that'd be super tubular.