Inquisition of the Elf Prince

by RantingRyuu728

Ralinor Lavellan, a Dalish Mage, seeks to continue his mother's work and restore a home for his people. Ancient evils are at work, however, and Ralinor finds himself leading the Inquisition while also trying to make peace with and among the Drow, cousins of the elves who have returned after centuries underground. Crossover/fusion between Dragon Age, LOTR, and Drowtales.

2. A Harsh Society

Author's note: WARNING! There are a lot of complicated names from Drowtales. Don't be surprise if you don't memorize them anytime soon. (Grins) Can you say them out loud?

Disclaimer: I do not own or claim the rights to Dragon Age, Lord of the Rings, or Drowtales. They belong to their respective owners.

Special thanks to my beta reader, Milarqui, for his wonderful help.

Chapter 2: A Harsh Society

Clan Undomiel Camp

One year had passed since the Dalish discovered the hidden forge. Ralinor, now ten years old, was jogging through the camp, and stopped when he saw a stranger pacing around. The man, a shemlen, had a thick black beard, wore silvery armor and carried two swords on his back, one long and the other short. The man turned and smiled when he saw the young elf boy.

"Hello, young one," the old man spoke. "What is your name?"

"I'm Ralinor. Who are you? I don't meet too many shemlens," Ralinor answered.

"I am Duncan, of the Grey Wardens."

"The Grey Wardens?" Ralinor exclaimed amazement. "My mother told me about them. She said they were great warriors of recognition. It's an honor to meet you."

"Why, thank you, young one," Duncan replied with a nod in thanks. "May I ask who your mother is?"

"His mother is an old friend of yours, Duncan," Altariel spoke as she walked up to them.

"My lady," Duncan greeted with a respectful bow.

"Hello, mother," Ralinor said with a small wave.

"Hello, da'len," Altariel greeted with a small smile. "Ralinor, may I have a word with my old friend, please?"

"Alright, mom," Ralinor replied and left to find his sister. Altariel motioned for Duncan to walk with her.

"I'm surprised to learn that you have a son, my lady," Duncan remarked. "Then again, it has been many years... and you haven't aged a day."

"You are too kind, Duncan. It's part of being elven... and discovering secrets," Altariel replied before her smile faded. "You're here because of the Blight that we've been hearing about."

"No Archdemon has yet been spotted, therefore, many think that this is not a true Blight..." Duncan slowly responded.

"But you think otherwise," Altariel stated.

"I do," Duncan replied. "We've won a few victories against the Darkspawn horde, but their numbers continue to grow."

"You wish for the Dalish to help?" Altariel half-stated, half-asked.

"Yes. You are the most influential Keeper of the Dalish. If any elf can speak for all of the Dalish clans, it's you." Duncan then formally bowed to his friend. "Keeper Altariel, on behalf of the Grey Wardens, I ask for the Dalish's aid in the fight against the Blight."

"Walk with me," Altariel gestured, and the two of them started to take a stroll together. "How many of the Shemlen kingdoms will help?"

"The Blight has appeared in Ferelden, their armies are gathering at the ruins of Ostagar and, as I mentioned, they have won a couple of battles. Orlais is currently in talks with Ferelden about sending aid, but there are problems due to Orlais occupying Ferelden for years. It has left some bad blood between the two nations." Duncan explained. "The kingdoms north of the Waking Sea aren't interested in joining unless there is either more proof that this is a true Blight, or the Darkspawn appear on their doorstep."

"How many Grey Wardens are in Ferelden?"

"Too few. There are only a handful of us. I will try to find potential recruits as I travel to Ostagar." Duncan answered. He then gave Altariel a patient look as he waited.

"There are a handful of Dalish clans in Ferelden that could aid your cause," Altariel stated. "However, they will need more than a simple request for help. Many Dalish aren't interested in helping shemlens."

"I have received word that there is a Grey Warden cache that contains Grey Warden treaties with men, mages, dwarves, and elves," Duncan revealed. "Will that help convince your fellow Dalish?"

"Yes, if you can retrieve these treaties, it will be enough to convince the clans to help," Altariel confirmed. "I will send word to all the clans to prepare for war with the Blight, but I doubt that any outside of Ferelden will be able to arrive in time to aid."

"Even if only a single clan can help, it will be appreciated," Duncan bowed in gratitude. His face then looked weary and depressed. "Altariel, my friend... I... I am starting to hear the Call."

Altariel's face fell at hearing this. She knew what the Call meant to Grey Wardens: it signified that they were reaching the end of their lifespan.

"If I don't die at Ostagar... I will enter the Deep Roads for the last time," Duncan continued. "I have no regrets, and only wish I had a little more hope for the coming days."

"One way, or another, we will not meet again, ma falon," Altariel stated before affectionately placing a hand on the side of Duncan's face. "May the Valar and Eru Iluvatar watch over you, Grey Warden."

Duncan smiled back before slowly turning to leave.

"Duncan," Altariel called out, catching his attention. "On your way to Ostagar, travel to the western edge of the Brecilian Forest. There you will find Clan Sabrae and... you may find the hope you seek."

"I will, my lady, and thank you," Duncan replied before he turned and left the camp.

Altariel stared sadly after her old friend before sighing. She walked a little ways away from the camp and sat down on a rock to think.

"I suppose you wish to talk about the Blight as well," Altariel spoke out loud before glancing behind her. "Mithrandir."

The wizard clad in white robes and carrying a white staff gave a small bow before sitting next to Altariel.

"That is one of the things I would like to discuss, my lady."

The old wizard lit his pipe and began to puff out a few smoke rings. He then muttered a few words and some of the smoke changed into an eagle that flew through the smoke rings. Altariel gave an amused smile at this.

"I fear that this Blight may be more than it seems," Gandalf stated in a grave tone. "It won't be long before the Enemy reveals himself again."

"This will be the fifth Blight to have plagued our world. Why would he start to stir now instead of during one of the previous Blights?" Altariel questioned.

"Perhaps it concerns the weapon of the enemy."

"The One Ring," Altariel shook her head. "If Sauron found the Ring, he would already be waging war with the world."

"Perhaps someone else found it... or it could be something else entirely." Gandalf shrugged. "The Dalish are regaining their strength and I suspect that it is also making Sauron uneasy."

"Even if we were finished with training and forging arms and armor for the new Dalish Army, we do not possess the strength to defy the Dark Lord a second time," Altariel remarked.

"All nations of Thedas must unite and work together in order to defeat this evil." Gandalf turned and faced Altariel directly. "Reunite the elves, Altariel. Speak with the Drow and bring the elven peoples together again."

"You speak as though it is a simple thing to accomplish, when you know that it is near impossible," Altariel refuted. "The Drow, for all their achievements and advances in technology and sorcery, have perverted what it means to be Elven. They openly segregate men and women, they practice slavery, and many Drow are afflicted by the Taint from Nether Demons. How would you expect the Nine Great Clans to even consider agreeing to support a High King?"

"Is there not an agreement between the Dalish and the Drow?" Gandalf reminded. "There lies your chance."

"You want me to send my son to Chel'el'Sussoloth? To their academy, Orthorbbae?" Altariel asked with narrow eyes.

"He is of age, and I believe he would achieve much. Ralinor has a curious nature and a mind eager to learn," Gandalf answered. "He could have a strong effect on the Drow of his age."

"I was sent to Orthorbbae when I was a little girl. Always the same: I would spend two years with them, return to my clan and a few months later I would be back again there," Altariel reminded him. "I spent two decades in total in Chel... and I only enjoyed a small part of it.

"I made many friends, but I also had to endure the Drow mocking me behind my back. They treated me as though I was beneath them because of what the Dalish lost over the years. Ralinor would have it even worse because he is a boy. The Drow are a matriarchal society. They would have far less respect for my son than they did with me. Ralinor could die in Chel'el'Sussoloth!"

"I imagine that you would be there to keep an eye on him as he would need someone to also teach him the ways of the Dalish." Gandalf pointed out. "You would help him and keep him safe. I understand that there would be dangers, but Ralinor would be able to meet with the future generations that may one day lead the Drow and forge new bonds with them."

"The males and females are separated into different sections of Orthorbbae. They're not allowed to enter each other's sections."

"I highly doubt that would stop you, my lady." Gandalf chuckled. He then turned serious. "Despite how you feel about this, Lady Altariel, you know that you must at least try."

"You really think that Ralinor could change the Drow to a better path?"

"I am willing to give him some faith," Gandalf encouraged. "Sooner or later, change will come whether we wish it or not. Sometimes, change is required and it needs a little push to get it going. I believe that Ralinor could be that push."

"I will speak with Ralinor about it," Altariel finally answered with a heavy sigh. "It will be a life changing event for him and he has the right to make the choice himself."

"Of course, my lady."

"Mithrandir!"

Altariel and Gandalf turned to see the subject of their discussion running towards them.

"I didn't know you were here!" Ralinor exclaimed and gave the old wizard a hug. "Are you going to stay for a while?"

Ralinor always loved it when the White Wizard visited the clan. He would always tell Ralinor stories about the ancient days, stories about the heroes of the First Age, such as Fingolfin, who dueled the first dark lord, Morgoth.

"If your mother allows it, I would like to stay for the night," Gandalf answered with a smile.

"You're more than welcome to stay, Mithrandir," Altariel replied, using Gandalf's Sindarin name.

"Are you going to shoot off some of your fireworks?" Ralinor asked in excitement.

"Well... maybe one," Gandalf shrugged in amusement.

That evening

The Dalish let out cheers as fireworks fired into the night sky. Gandalf lit a firework that burst into dozens of sparkling butterflies, which the elvish children chased in delight. It was good to know that, even with a Blight threating countless lives, there was still some time to enjoy happy moments.

Altariel clapped in happiness with Ralinor sitting next to her. She glanced over at her son and her smile faded a little.

"Ralinor... I need to talk with you," Altariel spoke up. Ralinor looked up at his mother in curiosity.

"About what, mother?"

"I have been talking with Gandalf and... well, are you aware of the agreement that was made between our people and the Drow Empire?" Altariel questioned.

"I know a little. Something about sending one of our clan members to live and learn with the Drow?" Ralinor answered.

"That is the most well-known part of the agreement, yes," Altariel nodded. "I am considering invoking the arrangement, but it requires someone from our bloodline, the Undomiel bloodline, to fulfill it. You are the only one of our family who would fill the requirements as your sister cannot use magic."

"Am I going to be sent to Chel'el'Sussoloth then, mother?"

"I am letting you decide, Ralinor. If you decide to go and learn at Orthorbbae, it will change your life forever. You will receive some of the best training available in combat, politics, economics, and magical arts that you have never even dreamed of. Also, Gandalf believes that you could maybe help the Drow in some way by being there. Perhaps you will do something that will help all elven kind at Chel'el'Sussoloth." Altariel explained.

"You went to study at Orthorbbae before, right mom? Do you think I should go?" Ralinor asked.

"... In all honesty... I would never let you set foot in Chel'el'Sussoloth if I had a choice," Altariel confessed as she glanced to the side in memory. "The Drow are a matriarchal society, and they will judge you harshly for being both Dalish and a male. If you were to go, you would face many challenges, some of them life threatening, such as the Taint. You will also see things you won't like, such as slavery. Remember this about the Drow above all things: The Drow are a harsh society."

Ralinor stared up to the night sky as he thought over what his mother told him. Another firework shot into the sky, but Ralinor did not even notice.

"If I were to go... could I make a difference, mother?" Ralinor asked.

"That would depend entirely on you, Ralinor." Altariel replied.

"I remember you telling stories about the time you spent among the Drow, mother. How some Drow could be cruel while others had more honor than anyone on the surface. You have always tried to do what is best for our people." Ralinor then looked directly at his mother. "I want to be like you, mother. I want to help our people... but I want to do more than what you've done."

Altariel tilted her head in curiosity at what her son meant.

"You have always helped our fellow Dalish and our City Elf cousins," Ralinor explained. "But, aren't the Drow our cousins as well? I want to help all of elven kind. Dalish, city elves, and the Drow. I want to go to Chel'el'Sussoloth and try to make a difference."

Altariel stared at her son, amazed at the resolve she saw in his eyes.

"Is that your final decision, Ralinor?"

"Yes, mother. I want to go to the City of Lights in the Darkness."

"You make me so proud, Ralinor." Altariel smiled and pulled Ralinor into a hug while more fireworks blazed above them. "We will leave in the morning."

The next day

The whole clan was gathered as Altariel, Ralinor, and about a dozen bodyguards clad in newly forged Noldor armor were preparing to leave.

"You know what needs to be done, Talinor," Altariel was saying to her husband. "It's tough for a clan without its Keeper, especially when that Keeper will be gone for several years."

"I know, ma vhenan. I will lead the clan to meet up with clan Lavellan and travel with them until you return." Talinor replied before he lifted up a sword and handed it to his wife. "Take Urfael with you. I would feel more at ease if you carried it."

Altariel hesitated for a moment before she took the blade and strapped it onto her back.

"I hope I do not have to use it... Farewell, ma vhenan."

The two embraced and kissed while holding each other for a moment. Nearby, Idriel was saying goodbye to her little brother.

"You be careful, you silly squirt." Idriel grinned as she ruffled Ralinor's hail. "Maybe you'll find yourself a Drow girlfriend."

"What! Don't say weird things like that, sis!" Ralinor shouted back. Idriel just laughed before pulling him into a hug.

"And you, Mithrandir?" Altariel turned to Gandalf. "Will you offer your aid against the Blight or try to convince the kingdoms of men to help?"

"A little of both, if possible," Gandalf replied. "It is a little difficult when you are branded as an apostate. Such a foolish term with an equally foolish idea behind it. How this 'Chant of Light' came to be, I'll never understand, especially when you consider Andraste's own heritage."

"Well, people would say you were mad if you suddenly told them the truth about Andraste," Altariel replied with a small chuckle at seeing Gandalf's annoyed look. She then smiled fondly at the wizard. "Namarie, Mithrandir."

"Namarie, melda heri," Gandalf replied with a small bow before smiling at Ralinor. "And good luck to you, young one."

"Thank you, Gandalf, and namarie," Ralinor replied before giving the wizard a hug.

With their goodbyes said, Altariel, Ralinor, and their guards mounted onto the halla and gave one last wave before riding southwards. Gandalf smiled after them with a twinkle in his eye and hope in his heart.

"Farewell, descendants of Gil-galad," Gandalf muttered to himself, "... until our next meeting."

Several days later

"Now then, Ralinor," Altariel spoke to her child as they road on, "Tell me what you remember from our lessons about the Drow."

"Chel'el'Sussoloth has numerous clans that live in the city, but there are only nine that are considered Great Clans," Ralinor started. "The leader of a clan is named Ill'haress, which forms part of the Clan Council that oversees the affairs of the empire. The current Empress comes from Clan Sharen, which is the ruling clan right now. The Empress, who is called Diva'ratrika, is also commonly referred to by the title Val'Sharess, in honor of Sharess Val'Sharen."

"The word 'Val' is the title of nobility among the Drow, along with the title 'Vel'. The noble title is traditionally used with one's clan name. Examples would be Vel'Sharen and Val'Sarghress for clans Sharen and Sarghress respectively."

"Correct, Ralinor. Do you remember the difference between Val and Vel?"

"Val is the more common and traditional title used, while Vel is a more recent title, which is only used by Clan Sharen and Clan Vloz'ress out of the Great Clans," Ralinor answered. "The title Vel is used because they embrace the Taint and Nether arts... though I'm not sure why they would do that."

Altariel frowned at her son's unasked question. She sighed, knowing that her son needed to know this information.

"The Vloz'ress started out as a band of outcasts who were affected by the Taint. They grew in size, and they were eventually recognized as one of the Great Clans. The Sharens embraced the Taint after the Nidraa'chal War."

"What was that, mother?"

"Before I answer that, you must have a better understanding of the Taint. The Tainted are those who have been infected by a Nether Demon seed."

"Then, they are abominations?" Ralinor asked in confusion. "Like a mage that has been possessed by a demon from the Fade and turned into a monster?"

"Yes... and no," Altariel replied. "Nether demons and Fade demons are very different from each other in many ways. Demons from the Fade seek to enter our world by possessing mages or corpses and the like, with malicious intent."

"Nether demons, on the other hand, are strange because they actually feed on mana. Mana, or magic, is actually a food source for them. Nether Demons will completely ignore a warrior or a rogue and go for magical sources in order to feed on the energy. Since almost all Drow can use magic, they are perfect targets for Nether demons.

"A Drow who is possessed by a Nether demon will indeed turn into an abomination, but often times a Nether demon will also bond with a Drow. It's like... a parasite. They bond with the host so that they may continuously feed on the mana. Drow who have one of these 'Nether seeds' in them have their eyes changed. The eyes become glowing red, so they are referred to as the Tainted. It is more accurate to say that a Drow with the Taint is infected rather than possessed... like a sickness or a plague."

Ralinor mulled over this information for a moment.

"Is there a cure for the Taint? Some way to get the Nether demon seed out of you?"

"No," Altariel replied in sadness. "Since Nether demons feed on mana, they are near impossible to kill. Once you're Tainted, it is permanent. There is no known cure."

"But if they feed on mana, how would you fight them?" Ralinor questioned.

"Thankfully, there are sealing arts that can be used to counter a Nether Demon. You can use these abilities to seal a demon into a crystal or seal a Nether Gate," Altariel explained. "Most Nether demons are also simple-minded, like an animal, but there are exceptions. You could distract them by sending a bolt of mana away from you and the demon will chase after it to feed on the magic. It's the same when covering yourself with a magical shield. The shield won't actually stop the demon, but they will try to feed on the shield, leaving you alone for a short time."

"Why would the Drow allow Nether summoning or other dangerous abilities go unchecked? Why would the Sharens, the royal clan, embrace this darker power?" Ralinor asked.

"Being one of the Tainted does not mean you are evil, Ralinor. Many people are Tainted by misfortune or from being caught in crossfire between rival clans," Altariel began to explain. "Nether summoning was forbidden until after the Nidraa'chal war. As you know, soon after the Drow-Orlesian War ended, I was sent to Chel'el'Sussoloth because of the new agreement between our people. Several years after I arrived, a new war occurred between the Drow. A small clan called the Nidraa'chal began to attack using Nether summoning. I tried to urge Empress Diva'ratrika to deal with the Nidraa'chal immediately because of the dangers of Nether Summoning. However, Diva'ratrika instead listened to her eldest daughter, Snadhya'rune, and dismissed the Nidraa'chal as a minor problems due to how small of a clan they were. What Diva'ratrika didn't know was that the Nidraa'chal were summoning the nether demons to possess common folk and turning them into an army of abominations. Countless of innocents were possessed and things began to quickly deteriorate in the empire. Finally, Diva'ratrika could no longer ignore the threat and sent the full might of the Sharen military against the Nidraa'chal. By then, it was almost too late as thousands of the Sharen military perished. The ones who changed the tide of the war were not the Sharens, but two other clans. They were the Sarghress, a former mercenary group that employed unorthodox tactics and the Kyorl'solenurm, often nicknamed the Kyorls, were a deeply religious clan that hated anything Nether-related with a fanatical passion, so they mastered the sealing arts and similar abilities to counter the Nether Arts."

"How did the war end, mother?" Ralinor asked.

"Well," Altariel thought for a moment. "It ended with a coup. At least, it was an attempt at a coup. The official record is that Sil'lice Val'Sharen, the third daughter of Diva'ratrika, attempted to overthrow her mother and become Empress. However, it failed and Sil'lice went into hiding."

"The Nidraa'chal were eventually defeated, but the Sharen military suffered heavy loss. That, combined with the attempted coup, caused Diva'ratrika to seclude herself and completely neglect her duties as Empress. The Sharens then embraced the Nether arts, claiming that it would solve all problems by fighting fire with fire. It was a foolish idea, as it caused many clans to question them. The Sharen's power was already waning and had taken a heavy blow. The other Great Clans are starting to challenge the authority of the royal clan."

Altariel then turned and looked directly at Ralinor.

"I want you to avoid becoming Tainted at all cost, Ralinor, but don't judge a person just because they may be Tainted, understand?"

"Yes, mother," Ralinor replied.

"Because the Great Clans are staring to challenge the Sharens, things will be tense in Chel'el'Sussoloth. A civil war may even break out," Altariel sighed with a weary look on her face. "Like I said, the Drow are a harsh society."

Sarghress Fortress, Chel'el'Sussoloth

Deep underground, a massive fortress stood near the edge of the great city of Chel'el'Sussoloth. A massive tower with two smaller connecting towers to either side stood behind the large wall. On the main tower, there was a symbol, a red colored sword with two diamonds along the blade: the symbol of Clan Sarghress.

The Sarghress was originally a mercenary band that gained prominence during the Drow-Orlesian war and grew in strength after claiming city districts that were lost by the Sharens after the Nidraa'chal war. The Sarghress were considered by many to be the Great Clan that represented the common class and they were very popular with the people.

The Ill'haress of the Sarghress was Quain'tana, the Mercenary Queen. She was considered by many of the commoners as a hero who travelled throughout the underworld and for being a fierce leader during the Drow-Orlesian war. Quain'tana's adventures became popular for storybooks.

In a small room within the Sarghress Fortress, a young Drow girl by the name of Ariel Val'Sarghress was reading one of these stories.

"Ill'haress Quain'tana Val'Sarghress... my mother," Ariel spoke out loud as she closed the storybook. "In less than a month, I'll be ten and then I'll finally get to meet you."

Ariel had never even seen Quain'tana since she was a newborn baby. She would often read stories in order to imagine herself travelling throughout the underworld and the surface world with Quain'tana. Ariel dreamed of sharing her mother's adventures with her.

Soon, we'll be together... although it sometimes feels like it will never happen, Ariel thought before the door to her room opened and a Drow woman with an annoyed look entered Ariel's room.

"Ariel Val'Sarghress! Have you been studying those books I gave you?" The woman, whose name was Syphile Val'Sarghress, demanded. Her red eyes marked her as Tainted.

It was tradition among the Drow that the Val born would be taught and watched over by one of their close siblings. In Ariel's case, it was her sister Syphile. However, they were not related by blood, as Syphile had been adopted by Quain'tana. Syphile was once considered as a potential heiress to Quain'tana, but disgraced herself to the clan and was therefore assigned to be Ariel's teacher and caretaker.

Syphile hated it and made sure that Ariel felt the same.

"You're not answering me... I should have guessed," Syphile growled. "Reading those foolish fairytales again?"

Ariel chose to remain silent, knowing that anything she said would only anger Syphile even more. Her daily misery began as Syphile berated her about failing to study the work she was given. They then moved onto sword practice and Ariel was knocked to the ground with a bleeding lip in seconds.

"Pathetic. Reading those fairytales and dreaming isn't going to help you get anywhere in life!" Syphile remarked. She then noticed a tears forming in Ariel's eyes and jabbed the practice sword down, catching Ariel's hand between it and the floor. "Don't cry! Girls don't cry, for we are stronger than men, and Val girls are stronger still!"

"M-my hand... " Ariel whispered to herself in pain as a purple bruise appeared. Syphile then pulled Ariel to the table and sat Ariel down before slamming a book in front of her.

"Study it all, this time," Syphile ordered, "or I'll feed you to Mel and her giant pet spider! But... then again you may prefer that, being locked up with her!"

Syphile then turned and left the room, slamming the door behind her. Ariel let out a sigh before opening the book before her, as she did not want to make Syphile angry again. After a few moments however, Ariel began to scratch her head in confusion.

"I don't understand this book and Syphile won't stay to help me with it... what should I do?" Ariel mused to herself in despair. After a moment, her head then shot up with hope in her eyes. "I know! Kel'noz is coming back today. He can help me!"

With that thought in mind, Ariel lifted the book up and ran out the room. In another part of the fortress, a Drow man strode towards his own room. As was tradition for most male and female Drow, he had long hair and chose to have it white with red highlights. As he entered his room and began to close the door, Ariel suddenly skidded in with the book.

"Kel'noz!" Ariel shouted in joy. "I have to read this evil book before Syphile gets back, but I don't understand it. Please make me smarter!"

"Calm down, Ariel," Kel'noz chided. He was the only son of Quain'tana and Ariel's older brother. He was a teacher who worked at Orthorbbae, but would often travel back to his clan to act as an advisor to his mother. He was perhaps the only one who strived to help Ariel in whatever way possible.

"How did you know I arrived? I don't announce my returns," Kel'noz asked.

"Oh, right! Greetings, big brother. I hope your work at Orthorbbae is going well." Ariel formally spoke.

"Ariel... "

"I, uh, kinda hid and waited for you to return." Ariel answered sheepishly.

Kel'noz sighed, but was used to dealing with children. He sat down and indicated Ariel to take a nearby seat.

"Alright then, tell me what you need help with."

"Syphile wants me to study everything in this book," Ariel explained as she held to book out. "I've tried, but I don't understand it."

"Very well, let me see this... dictionary?" Kel'noz stared dumbfounded before palming his face. "What is Syphile thinking? She knows nothing about teaching anything."

Syphile... you're going to regret taking your anger out on Ariel one of these days, Kel'noz thought.

"Could you tell me a story, then?" Ariel asked in hope.

"I guess I can oblige. How about a story about our Dalish cousins?" Kel'noz inquired. Ariel gave an eager nod, so he began to tell the tale. "As you know, the Dales fell to the Exalted March by the race of men. The end of the war was marked by Lindiranae's fall. Lindiranae was an elven champion, the last of the famed Emerald Knights who fought to the death against the invasion. At the end of the war, she was challenged by Ser Brandis to single combat. When the duel was to take place, Ser Brandis urged Lindiranae to yield. She refused, for she was willing to die for her people. Treachery then occurred as she was shot down by arrows from archers instead of dying in honorable combat. A tragic tale, as are many of those told about the elves, both ancient and recent."

After finishing his tale, Kel'noz let out a sigh as he remembered a friend of his. He pitied their Dalish cousins who had suffered much over the centuries. He glanced over and let out a soft chuckle at seeing that Ariel had fallen asleep. He stood and left her there to go fetch a gift he had got for her.

After napping for a while, Ariel started to wake when she felt something licking her face. She jerked up in shock at seeing the small creature in front of her.

"Mew!"

Ariel let out a squee at seeing the cute thing, lifting it up and hugging it. "It's so cute, what is it?"

"It's a cat. A small cousin of the Feral race that our allies, Clan Sullisin'rune, use as servants. Think of it as an early tenth birthday present." Kel'noz explained. "I have leave to fulfill my duties, so why don't you go and play with your new pet?"

"Thank you, Kel'noz!" Ariel answered as she ran out. She had never felt so happy in her entire life. She didn't have any siblings her age and had almost no friends besides Kel'noz.

Ariel took her new cat, calling him Fuzzy, to the kitchens and got him a snack. Afterwards, she ran down the hallways while using her magic to create a spark of light for Fuzzy to chase. Ariel then paused as she realized that she had ran into a section of the fortress that she'd never been to before.

The forbidden level? This is where Mel'arnach is kept, Ariel thought. She looked down the hallway in front of her to see a few guards standing in a small entryway. In the entryway was a dark door that looked to be filled with spider webs, causing Ariel to shiver at seeing it.

Ariel did not really know anything about Mel'arnach, or Mel as she was often called. Ariel knew that Mel was another of Quain'tana's daughters, but was always told to stay away from her. Syphile would always threaten to feed Ariel to Mel, who she called a monster. All Ariel knew at the moment was that she was afraid of seeing the spider web filled hallway and quickly scooped Fuzzy into her arms and ran back to her room.

Calming down as she neared her room, Ariel petted her kitten as she found herself thinking about Quain'tana again. Ariel had always pictured Quain'tana as a beautiful woman with shining armor, like how the tales portrayed her to be. Ariel reminded herself that it would be less than a month and she would finally meet her mother face to face.

Opening the door to her room, Ariel froze at seeing Syphile sitting on the bed while staring at one of Ariel's dolls with a depressed look. Ariel hid Fuzzy behind her back just before Syphile noticed her.

"Where have you been? I had to wait a long time for you to return," Syphile demanded.

"I... I needed help with the book," Ariel softly replied.

"I don't want excuses," Syphile snapped. "Where's the book? I want to see what you've learned."

Ariel froze, remembering that the book was still in Kel'noz's room. "I-I forgot the book in big brother's room... "

"Great, just great! You waste my entire day by running off without my permission to visit Kel'noz. You don't realize... you don't understand anything!" Syphile ranted in exasperation.

"I'm sorry."

"I'll make you understand. If you run off again without my permission, I swear I'll cut off one of your toes and feed it to Mel the monster," Syphile stated as she started towards the door. "I'll let her deal with your insolence. Are you... listening?"

Ariel's luck had run out just before Syphile left the room. Fuzzy had shifted out of Ariel's hold just as Syphile turned her head while talking. Upon seeing the cat, first confusion, and then anger had crossed her face.

"Please, sister Syphile! I beg you to let me keep Fuzzy," Ariel asked in desperation as she cradled her kitten. "Kel'noz gave him to me. Please!"

Syphile stared for a moment before letting out a sigh and turned to leave.

"One moon turn before I'm rid of you. Finish the studies I've given you and let's be done with this."

Syphile slammed the door behind her while Ariel stared after her, dumbfounded that Syphile did not hit or punish her. Ariel then heard a click on the door.

"She locked me in?" Ariel realized.

A week later...

"I'll get you better food, Fuzzy," Ariel said to her kitten in sadness. "I promise I will when Syphile lets us out."

Ariel had been locked in her room for a week. The only ones who came were slaves brining a small amount of food. Ariel's room was a mess and smelled foul due to her cat becoming sick and puking everywhere.

The door suddenly opened and Syphile herself entered the room. She had a black eye and was clearly in a dark mood. The headache she had wasn't helping, either.

"Ugh! What have you done to this room?" Syphile gasped in disgust at the smell and state of the room.

"Fuzzy is sick. I tried to get him to stop but he wouldn't," Ariel tried to explain. "But, I studied like you wanted. It's just that... poor Fuzzy..."

"Give me that pest!" Syphile demanded as she reached down and jerked Fuzzy out of Ariel's arms by the tail. "I've had a wretched day and now you have just made it worse for me."

Fuzzy clearly did not like being lifted up by his tail and bit Syphile's hand. Syphile glared at the feline before swinging it into a wall with a thud.

"One less monster in the world." Syphile cruelly remarked. Ariel stared in shock... before it turned to anger.

"You... heartless... BITCH!" Ariel yelled before she tried to punch and kick Syphile. "Let Fuzzy go! He's my friend!"

Ariel's attempt to attack Syphile did nothing. Syphile simply backhanded Ariel to the ground.

"Don't you dare lay your hands on me! You're lucky I can't do the same to you as the beast!" Syphile yelled as she tossed the cat at Ariel.

"Fuzzy? Please... wake up..." Ariel begged as she touched the lifeless cat with a shaky arm. Tears started to fill her eyes before she hugged the cat and started wailing in despair.

"Shut up... SHUT UP!" Syphile shouted as Ariel's crying did nothing to help her headache. "You will clean up this mess or you will regret it dearly!"

After Syphile left, Ariel remained huddled on the ground as she sobbed for her poor cat. A moment had passed until Ariel finally looked up with hatred in her eyes.

Later that day, Syphile let out a tired moan as she headed towards her room.

What an exhausting day this has been, Syphile thought as she opened her door. But, now I can relax and rest.

Syphile stepped into her room only to freeze in shock at seeing her furniture and items broken and scattered across the room. On the wall, written in shit, were the words 'I hate you'.

Ariel hid herself behind a suit of armor on display. Soon, she heard slaves and guards moving through the halls looking for her. She remained silent, hoping that Kel'noz would return before she was found. Alas, she was soon discovered and thrown into her room by Syphile.

"Fuck the studies and fuck the training," Syphile growled in the doorway. "You will stay in you room. When the day to meet Quain'tana comes, I won't have to deal with the shit you put me through anymore."

After Syphile had left, Ariel pulled herself from the flood and sent a glare at the door. She was past the point of caring about anything that Syphile said or threatened.

The Dales/Drow Territories border

"See that outpost up ahead, Ralinor? It belongs to Clan Sarghress and marks the beginning of the Drow Empire's territories," Altariel pointed for her son to see. Ralinor grinned in excitement.

It was the longest that Ralinor had ever travelled away from his clan, except for a trip to Ferelden once. He was in awe that they were able to travel through the Dales, his people's homeland before it was taken from them by the shemlens.

"The Drow Empire is centered underground, but it still covers the southern tip of the Dales. They also control a large area further south in the uncharted territories," Altariel continued to speak.

"The land looks wide open," Ralinor commented as he gazed into the distance.

"Most of the surface land has been converted into farmland to provide food for the Empire," Altariel explained. "While the Drow do have means to produce some food underground, like the dwarves, the farmlands on the surface are extremely vital and the main food source. The Great Clans carefully patrol their lands, for if even a small portion of the farmlands were razed, thousands of Drow would die of starvation."

"We'll be taking the roads controlled by Clan Sarghress. They are the only one of the Nine Great Clans to not tax the use of their highways into Chel'el'Sussoloth. We will also stop at their main fortress to pay our respects to their Ill'haress before continuing on to Orthorbbae."

Ralinor nodded in understanding. Altariel continued to speak.

"There are a few more things you need to know about the Drow before we meet them. You will see slaves," Altariel explained with a frown on her face.

Ralinor grimaced at being reminded of the cruel practice. "Why would they do such a thing, mother?"

"Slavery developed as a result of a number of clan wars that took place while the Drow were in isolation and hidden from the world before they returned during the last age. You will see a number of elves that were captured during the Drow-Orlesian war, humans from conquered regions in the uncharted lands, and even other Drow as slaves. It is one of the many things that I hope we can help change one day."

"You should also know a little about the Drow's views concerning... intimate relationships," Altariel hesitated to explain. Her son was rather young to know about such things, but he would be exposed to them in Chel'el'Sussoloth, so it would be better to explain beforehand.

"What do you mean mother?"

"Well... I guess there is no easy way to explain this. Most of the Drow population are female, at least seventy percent, and almost all Drow are bisexual."

Ralinor stared at his mother for a moment before he slowly responded. "You mean... say, a Drow woman, would be interested in both guys and girls?"

"Drow are complicated on intimate relations. They are open-minded about relationships between each other, they also have relationships with elven slaves fairly often," Altariel explain. "However... to the Drow, the act of mating with anything other than another Drow or an elf is basically taboo. If Drow were to have a relationship with a human, qunari, or a dwarf, it would be considered bestiality."

"Really?" Ralinor asked in shock.

"If the partner is elf or Drow descended, than almost anything goes. If the partner is human, it would be seen as mating with a dog or a horse," Altariel shrugged. "It's a cultural thing for the Drow. I thought I should warn you since you might end up seeing two girls... or guys... kissing."

Ralinor was silent for a moment, a little disturbed at hearing this. He knew there were same gender romances on the surface world, plenty of them. But, they were usually kept silent. He wasn't sure what to think about his Drow cousins being so open-minded about such things... as long as they were elves and Drow.

"You should also know that Drow don't often get married. They take mates, as the call it, to have children and do sometimes stay together for centuries, but actual marriage is rather uncommon. Having children with different fathers is rather common."

"I think it will be some time before I get used to some Drow customs, mother," Ralinor finally said.

"Oh, yes. It will take you some time," Altariel agreed.

The Elven Company soon approached the outpost and a few warriors strode out of the outpost to meet the elves. Their armor was amber, almost gold or tannish, in color. The lead figure's helmet had a full-faced mask that completely concealed her face. She wore a red cape with the Sarghress symbol adorning it.

"Ahh, the Highland Raiders," Altariel observed with a smile. "They are one of the several legions within Clan Sarghress' army. They have two main tasks. The first is to maintain the Sarghress' presence on the surface. They are survivalists, trained to use unorthodox tactics, and they are known for their fast mobility. Their second task is to seek out relics and treasure from the ancient times."

Altariel stopped her halla and dismounted to greet the Drow. The leader stopped in front of Ralinor's mother for a moment before she lifted her hand to her helmet. Ralinor watched in sudden shock as the face mask of the helmet retracted! The Drow commander then removed the helmet and Ralinor got his first good look at one of his Drow cousins.

The woman had short black hair with a streak of white over her left eye. Her eyes were like emeralds. Ralinor noticed that the Drow woman's right eye seemed to be blind, but on a closer look, he realized in shock that this woman had a green gemstone in place of her right eye.

Over all, the woman was beautiful and Ralinor couldn't help but blush a little.

"Well, well. Look who has returned after all these years," the Drow remarked as she smirked at Ralinor's mother.

"Andaran atish'an, Quill'yate," Altariel greeted warmly.

Quill'yate let out a laugh before she grabbed Altariel in a hug.

"Oh, don't give me that formal talk! Us proud members of Clan Sarghress don't care for such formalities, remember?"

"Indeed, I do," Altariel replied as she returned the hug. "Ralinor, this is Quill'yate Yurun'hiir Sarghress. Her official title is Dev'ess, the head of house Yurun'hiir, one of many subhouses in service to Clan Sarghress' main family. She is also the commander of the Highland Raiders. Quill'yate, this is my son, Ralinor Undomiel Lavellan."

"A son, huh?" Quill'yate repeated as she closely observed Ralinor.

"It's an honor to meet you, Dev'ess Quill'yate," Ralinor greeted respectfully.

"Did you not just hear what I told your mother?" Quill'yate gave Ralinor a stern gaze before suddenly grinning. "We Sarghress don't care too much for formalities, except when absolutely necessary. It's a pleasure to meet you young one."

Quill'yate then stepped forwards and ruffled Ralinor's hair.

"White hair, huh? Not very common among the Dalish. Proof that you are your mother's son, ha ha! It seems to suit you."

"Thank you, dev'ess-I mean Quill'yate," Ralinor replied.

"I take it that you will be taking our highway and meet with Quain'tana, Altariel?" Quill'yate questioned.

"Yes. I suspect that Quain'tana would want to speak with us before we head to Orthorbbae."

"You're in luck, then. I'm returning to the Sarghress fortress and will gladly escort you and your company."

"Wonderful. You can tell me how things have been since I was last in Chel'el'Sussoloth."

"Not much different than when you left, except maybe more tense," Quill'yate replied before turning to her soldiers. "Raiders, mount up! We're returning home!"

The Highland Raiders let out a cheer and moved back into the outpost to get ready for the journey. Ralinor could not help but grin at seeing how high-spirited they all were. As they returned however, Ralinor could not keep his shock hidden at seeing their mounts.

"Wolves?" Ralinor asked.

"Direwolves," Quill'yate corrected as she mounted her own Direwolf. "They are the iconic mounts used by the Sarghress. Fierce, loyal, and the best companion to have when fighting here on the surface."

"Oh, I don't know," Altariel remarked with a challenging smirk. "Halla are much swifter and surefooted than your beasts."

Ralinor did notice that the halla had showed no signs of fear at the presence of the direwolves. Halla were well known for their pride and being ornery. The Dalish were the only ones who were known to ride the massive deer, despite attempts by people from Orlais and other nations to tame the halla. If anything, the halla seemed to stand up straighter when the direwolves appeared. Almost like they were challenging them like they were rivals.

Well, I suppose they are sort of natural enemies, Ralinor though.

"We may have to test your claim someday, Altariel," Quill'yate replied with a challenging smirk of her own. The two groups soon set out together on their way toward the entrance to the underground capital.

"Quill'yate? I noticed that your helmet's facemask can retract from around your face. How did it do that?" Ralinor asked in curiosity.

"With magic. The Drow use magic in nearly everything in our society. Doors, for example, are opened and locked with magic, often by using a keystone. The Drow use crystals and gems as foci for many uses. Similar to a staff you might see on the surface," Quill'yate explained. "My helmet is actually standard equipment for the Highland Raiders. We often seek out relics and treasures and sometimes they are guarded by nasty traps. The helmet's mask protect us from poisons or gases."

"Wow, that sound very useful," Ralinor remarked. "Are the Highland Raiders basically just a big group of adventurers?"

Quill'yate chuckled in amusement.

"That does indeed describe us. I make sure to fill our ranks with Drow who are filled with an adventurous spirit, for we are the ones who boldly go where no one else will!"

The Highland Raiders let out their own roars of agreement with their commander. Ralinor smiled and let out a chuckle. So far, the Drow didn't seem so bad to him.

Sarghress Fortress, Chel'el'Sussoloth

Syphile walked through the halls towards Ariel's room, wearing one of her best formal outfits. Ariel's tenth birthday had finally arrived and Syphile was fetching her to bring her to Quain'tana. As she walked, Syphile couldn't help but feel nervous. If Quain'tana was not satisfied with Ariel's progress towards becoming heir, Syphile would no doubt be punished.

Syphile remembered the day she failed the clan. After becoming Tainted, Quain'tana had given Syphile the baby Ariel and told her to care and raise the child to become heiress. Syphile had promised that Quain'tana would be proud of Ariel once she came of age, although deep down, Syphile wished to return to Orthorbbae.

Then... the nightmares began. Syphile shared her room with the infant when one night, the baby shifted into a monstrous form and crawled out of her crib towards Syphile. For some reason, Syphile could not move her body and was helpless as the demonic looking baby crawled onto Syphile ready to strike. Syphile then woke from the dream sweating and gasping for breath as she looked over to see Ariel still sleeping peacefully in her crib.

Syphile had tried to ignore the dreams, but they continued to plague her and she slowly grew to resent everything about the child. It was a constant reminder of her failures.

After today, things will get better, Syphile told herself as she reached Ariel's room. She opened the door, only to be startled at seeing Ariel standing directly behind it.

"By Sharess, how long have you been waiting in front of the door?" Syphile asked. Ariel simply looked up with a hate-filled glare and Syphile grimaced in response.

"You should have put more care into your appearance. You must be presentable to the Ill'haress," Syphile said before she crouched down to tie Ariel's hair back. She then fetched a formal cloak for Ariel to wear. "Put this on. Now follow me."

Syphile lead Ariel out through the fortress. As they reached the doors leading to the throne room, Ariel's anger faded away to nervousness and excitement.

The day I dreamt for so long, Ariel thought as they entered. She could see a group of figures around the throne. It appeared there were a group of merchants or craftsmen in audience with the Ill'haress.

Ariel was happy to see that Kel'noz was there, standing on the right side of the throne to help advice the Ill'haress. On the left side of the throne was a woman wearing blood red armor, her hair was orange and tied into a braided ponytail. She was Koil'Dorath, the current heiress and a longtime friend who fought by Quain'tana's side. Should Ariel prove herself, she would take Koil'Dorath's place since Koil'Dorath was from one of the subhouses.

Ariel's eyes then landed on the center figure before the throne, seeing her mother for the first time. She was nothing like what Ariel had envisioned.

Quain'tana Val'Sarghress was the tallest person in the room, at least a good seven or more feet in height. She had a warrior's build, with powerful muscles under her crimson armor, though if you look closely you could still see she had a feminine figure hidden under the armor. Her white hair had streaks of red in it with a dark crown. Her stern gazed radiated power and authority.

Quain'tana did not seem to notice Syphile or Ariel as the entered the throne room, her attention focused on the commoners before her. Syphile brought her hand to her mouth and gave a cough to get everyone's attention.

"Ahem, my Ill'haress."

Quain'tana's eyes snapped to Syphile and frowned.

"What do you want, Syphile?"

It was Kel'noz who answered instead. He leaned over to whisper to Quain'tana.

"Your daughter, Ariel. It is her tenth birthday and time for your review."

Quain'tana's gaze glanced over Ariel, who was half hiding behind Syphile, before she addressed the commoners again.

"We will continue our meeting at a later date. You're dismissed. Koil'Dorath, you may resume your duties."

"As you wish, Ill'haress," Koil'Dorath and the commoners spoke before leaving the room.

Syphile presented Ariel as she spoke in a formal tone.

"Ariel is ready for your review and decision regarding her fate... and my own if you could spare your precious time."

Ariel nervously stared at the floor as her supposed mother strode forwards and towered over her. Quain'tana circled around Ariel while carefully observing the young girl before glancing at Syphile.

"Is she normal?" Quain'tana asked.

"Yes, my Ill'haress. She is." Syphile replied.

Good, Quain'tana thought, that's one potential disaster concerning the girl's birth that's been avoided.

Quain'tana then stood facing her throne with her back towards Ariel. "Tell me child, what is your most desired goal? One that you would be willing to risk your life for?"

Think Ariel, think! Ariel thought as she tried to come up with an answer. I know.

Ariel reached up and let her hair flow free as she declared her goal.

"I want to kill Syphile!"

Syphile gaped in surprise and shock. Unseen by everyone, an amused smirk appeared on Quain'tana's face. It faded as she turned back around.

"Then do it," Quain'tana spoke while pointing at Syphile. "She's right there. Fulfill your heart's desire."

Ariel and Syphile glanced at each other with hesitation. To the side, Kel'noz face palmed at the whole situation.

"I... I can't," Ariel finally spoke. "I'm too small. I'm just a child."

"Know this, child. If you cannot face enemies stronger than you, if you do not even try to defy fate, than you are not worthy to bear my name," Quain'tana stated. "You will face enemies and challenges that won't show you mercy because of your size, and neither will I."

Ariel's gaze slowly lowered to the floor again while Quain'tana directed her attention back at a worried Syphile.

"As for you," Quain'tana spoke while glaring at Syphile. "You were ordered to train her to be a proper Sarghress. Instead you bring me a weakling who cannot even hold my gaze? She is shy and she wants to kill you."

Quain'tana turned and sat on her throne as she continued to speak.

"You were given a chance to regain your honor and place among us, Syphile. Instead you squander it by making an enemy of the child under your care. I have no use for what you have made her into. You will not be allowed to return to Orthorbbae. As for the child... I will assign someone else to train and teach her to be a proper Sarghress. Until then, she is not to be recognized as my daughter."

Ariel stared in silent shock at Quain'tana's declaration. The image of a loving mother shattered within her and Ariel couldn't help but break down into tears.

No... I don't want to go back to that cell! I don't want another Syphile! Ariel mentally wailed to herself. To the side, Kel'noz looked with pity at Ariel before stepping forth to address her.

"Ariel, go outside and wait for me in the hall and we'll talk in a short while."

Ariel did not answer, she just turn and ran from the room. Syphile turned to leave as well.

"She may go, but you may not, Syphile." Quain'tana's voice cut out, causing Syphile to freeze in fear.

"When Ariel stopped her visits, I thought it was because you were trying to get some extra training for her in preparation for this day. Now, I see that I was wrong." Kel'noz accused. "Tossing her a few books and expecting her to learn by herself at her age is foolish at best."

"Is that so?" Quain'tana noted before she began to muse out loud. "Then perhaps the fault lies completely in the caretaker... which means the child could still be salvaged. But who to teach her? Koil'Dorath would be a fine teacher, but her many duties prevent her from having the time. Mel is forbidden from approaching Ariel for obvious reasons."

"Ariel is of age for schooling, but the Crescent of Orthorbbae is still in Snadhya'rune Vel'Sharen's control. That Sharen renegade has twice proved herself unreliable. One such case is in front of us. What do you say, Syphile?"

"She's... a demon," Syphile replied, remembering the Headmistress of Orthorbbae.

"So you've told me," Quain'tana then turned to Kel'noz. "I need your advice, my son."

"Perhaps one of the other houses could train Ariel? The Nori'fu, Tions, or the Niz'zre?" Kel'noz proposed.

"The thought has merit... but the temptation of one of the houses turning the perfect heir onto a tool for their purposes is too great," Quain'tana argued. "I need a daughter loyal to me. She is the last of my blood and the last chance I have to making one of my blood into my heir. I cannot let someone else make her see them as a mother figure."

"Then, may I suggest something out of the ordinary?"

Quain'tana gave her son an amused smirk.

"Enough formality, speak."

"A male could train her," Kel'noz suggested. "It is unorthodox, but commoners have been known to do to. We, of all clans, could aspire to do the same. I believe a male could teach Ariel just fine with the right circumstances."

"Are you suggesting yourself, Kel'noz? You forget the duties you have," Quain'tana reminded.

"I could train Ariel into a strong and loyal Sarghress and maintain my position as master in Orthorbbae if Ariel were to accompany me," Kel'noz argued.

"You mean bring her with you to the Towers of Orthorbbae, the male sections?" Quain'tana asked with a raised eye before shaking her head. "The other masters wouldn't allow it."

"I am confident that I can convince the other masters to support me in this. We are united in keeping ourselves independent from Snadhya'rune's control and can keep her from Ariel. Give me this chance, Ill'haress. I won't fail you."

Quain'tana mused over the idea for a moment before a grin slowly worked its way onto her face.

"This timing... is surprisingly fortunate."

"What do you mean, Ill'haress?" Kel'noz asked in confusion.

"You haven't heard, then? The Drow-Dalish agreement has been invoked," Quain'tana revealed.

Surprise appeared on Kel'noz's face upon hearing that.

"Then that means..."

"She is coming back to Chel'el'Sussoloth... and she's bringing a son," Quain'tana explained. "She'll most likely want her son in your tower at Orthorbbae. This means that Ariel and her son will most likely grow up together and perhaps forge a better relation between our clan and the Dalish. Even if nothing truly comes from it, it would be a nice slap to the Sharen's face to see the Dalish Elves closer to our clan than theirs."

"I see... it could prove to be greatly beneficial to our clan," Kel'noz agreed.

In the hall outside the throne room, Ariel sat on the floor with her chin resting on her knees. She stared at the ground in misery at the day she had looked forward to being turned into one of the worst.

Some purple glow flew in front of her and Ariel looked up to see a purple fairy fluttering in front of her with a smile.

"Is it real?" Ariel asked in awe as she reached out to touch it. Standing a few feet in front of her, Kel'noz gave a small smile before he undid his spell and the fairy slowly disappeared.

"It is an illusion. Mana light formed to create an image like that of a fae," Kel'noz explained. He crouched down to Ariel's level.

"Mana powers our civilization. The ancient civilization of Elvhenan was powered by mana as well. I believe that if you were master this power, it would be the key to gaining Quain'tana's favor," Kel'noz explained. "I can bring you with me to teach you about magic and about being a Sarghress, but you must do as I instruct you. Do you want to live and learn from your big brother?"

Ariel slowly smiled before wiping her tears away and nodded.

"Yes... thank you, big brother."

"Then go and get your thing, fuzz-head," Kel'noz encouraged while ruffling Ariel's hair. "I will make preparations so meet me at the front gate."

Ariel immediately ran off with a smile on her face. The day had immediately changed for her once again. It went from anticipation, to misery, to joy in a manner of moments.

No more Syphile, a new home, being taught by my brother, this is too good to be true, Ariel thought in happiness.

She quickly gathered the few items she owned and placed them into a bag. Just before she left, Ariel turned and made a face at the room.

"I won't miss you, stupid cell!" Ariel spoke before leaving.

As she headed toward the front gate, Ariel turned into a hall only to stop in her tracks upon seeing two guards escort a prisoner in the same direction Ariel was heading.

The prisoner was gorgeous. She wore a rather suggestive white dress made from silk. Her long, light purple hair reached all the way to her ankles. She was also tall, nearly a full head taller than her two guards. All in all, her beauty would be enough to make jaws drop and women glare in envy.

It's... its Mel'arnach! Ariel realized. Quain'tana's daughter and twin sister to Kel'noz, Mel'arnach was the one Ariel was always told to avoid. The one called a monster. Hence, Ariel did not want to meet her and stayed put, waiting for them to leave the hall ahead of her.

Then, Mel'arnach turned her head and glanced over her shoulder at Ariel, their eyes meeting. Something flashed through Mel'arnach's eyes...

Without warning, Mel'arnach's elbow slammed into one of her guard's temple, sending her into the wall out cold. Mel'arnach's hand then seemed to turn into a shadow-like substance and shifted out of her cuffs and reaching behind her neck to grab the hidden knife she had. The other guard quickly drew her swords and in a split second, both were pointing their blades at each other's necks.

"Back off!" the guard demanded. Mel'arnach simply gave a very Quain'tana-like grin in return.

"You can't hurt me... but I can hurt you, remember?" Mel'arnach stated in a smooth voice. Her guard started sweating in fear as she knew Mel was right. Prisoner or not, the guard would be punished because of Quain'tana's orders.

"Don't worry, I only wish to talk with the little lady over there," Mel'arnach continued. Ariel blinked in shock as she realized Mel was referring to her. Mel then suddenly pressed her lips against her guards in a kiss before stepping back.

Blushing and dazed, the female guard stumbled away to get help. Mel'arnach shapeshifted her other hand free from the cuffs and tossed it aside as she faced Ariel.

"Hello, cute little girl," Mel'arnach greeted with a smile. "What's your name?"

Ariel nervously stared at Mel, who crouched in front of her as she waited for an answer. Ariel wasn't sure what Mel wanted, but she was afraid.

"A-Ariel," Ariel softly replied.

Mel'arnach suddenly reach out and... pulled Ariel into a hug.

"Ariel," Mel'arnach whispered in a loving tone as she held the surprised Ariel in her arms. "Finally... no one will ever keep us separate any longer."

Ariel was confused at Mel'arnach's actions. One moment she attacked her guards and now she was hugging Ariel. For some reason, Ariel felt comfortable in Mel's embrace... it felt strangely familiar to her. As she glanced up, Ariel let out a frightened squeak at seeing a spider crawl on Mel'arnach's shoulder.

"I'm sorry about my pets," Mel'arnach assured. "Don't worry, they are harmless."

"I-I need to go," Ariel shakily spoke. "Kel'noz is waiting for me."

"He can go without you. Everything will be ok," Mel'arnach replied before she surprised Ariel again by nibbling her ear.

Is she trying to eat me? Ariel thought in panic before yelling. "LET ME GO!"

"Let the child go and spread your hands wide on the floor, Mel'arnach!" yelled a guard as a group of them started to appear in the hall.

"Obey or we'll cut your hands off! We have the okay from Quain'tana to do that!" Another guard yelled.

Mel'arnach glanced at all the guards in amusement before turning back to Ariel with a warm smile.

"Go, little one... We'll meet again."

Mel'arnach then released Ariel, who quickly stood and ran from the hall with Mel'arnach smiling after her.

"Your mother wants to see you. No more playing games with your escorts."

"I would never want to make beloved Quain'tana wait," Mel'arnach replied with a hint of venom in her voice.

Ariel continued through the halls until she finally reached the front gate where Kel'noz was waiting.

"Ariel, is there nothing you want to bring with you?" Kel'noz asked in confusion.

Ariel realized she had left her bag behind with Mel'arnach.

"Mel'arnach has it, big brother. I ran into her on the way here. She's scary," Ariel explained.

Kel'noz grimaced before patting Ariel on the head.

"Mel lost her mind a long time ago. Syphile lost her heart on the same day."

"Is all of our family like this?" Ariel asked.

"I guess so," Kel'noz sighed. "If I was to tell you I was free from it... I would be lying."

Kel'noz began to escort Ariel toward the gate.

"Responsibility brings great burden. You will have to bear it one day as well. I will do everything I can to prepare you for it so that you do not become like your sisters."

Just before they reached the gate, they opened and several figures stepped in. Kel'noz's eyes widened upon seeing them.

A short while before

"I never expected underground to be so... vast!" Ralinor remarked in amazement.

Ralinor had enjoyed traveling with the Highland Raiders. They were a fun group to hang out with. Eventually, they reached the entrance to the underworld and Ralinor did feel a sense of foreboding as they descended. After traveling through the tunnels, they finally entered the cavern where the Sarghress Fortress was and Ralinor gasped upon seeing it.

"I felt the same when I first arrived," Altariel said with a chuckle. "You would think that the earth above us would collapse and bury everything."

Ralinor continued to look around in awe as they entered the fortress. He didn't think such large buildings could exist underground. They were just as large, maybe larger, than structures on the surface. Ralinor glanced up at the rocky celling above them to see countless glowing lights, making the cavern ceiling seem like a starry sky on a clear night.

"So that's why they call it the City of Lights in the Darkness," Ralinor murmured out loud.

As they approached the Sarghress Fortress, Altariel rode a little closer to her son. She pulled the pouch she always wore around her neck off and held it out.

"Ralinor, I want you to keep this safe while we are in Chel'el'Sussoloth."

"W-what?!" Ralinor exclaimed in shock. "But that's... I can't carry it, mother! What if someone discovers that I'm carrying it? How can I protect it?"

"No one will suspect you will have something like this, Ralinor," Altariel insisted. "I'm asking you, for our people, to carry it and keep it safe while we're here."

"I'll... I'll try, mother," Ralinor hesitantly replied. He stared at the pouch for a moment before slipping it around his neck.

Arriving at their destination, Altariel dismounted with Ralinor doing the same. They said a few farewells with the Highland Raiders before heading for the main gate. The opened the doors to see a male Drow with a young girl with him.

"Kel'noz!" Altariel exclaimed. "Andaran atish'an, my friend."

"Altariel," Kel'noz greeted in return. "Welcome back to Chel'el'Sussoloth."

"I must admit, it does bring back a nostalgic feeling," Altariel admitted before gesturing to Ralinor. "This is my son, Ralinor. Ralinor, this is Kel'noz Val'Sarghress. An old friend of mine and, if things go as I hope, he will be one of your teachers in Orthorbbae."

"It is an honor to meet you, master Kel'noz," Ralinor bowed.

"It is an honor to meet the child of a dear friend," Kel'noz replied.

"And this little lady," Altariel began as she looked at Ariel. She paused and observed Ariel for a moment. "Are you the daughter of...?"

"This is Ariel, Quain'tana's daughter and my little sister," Kel'noz suddenly interjected.

Altariel stared at Kel'noz for a second before observing Ariel again and giving Kel'noz a suspicious glare. Kel'noz felt a bead of sweat on his brow at her gaze.

"It is a pleasure to meet you, Ariel," Altariel finally said while giving Ariel a smile. Ariel found herself smiling back and bowing.

"You are Dalish Elves? I never met one before," Ariel asked in curiosity.

"Yes, we are. I hope we can get along well, as our peoples are cousins to each other," Altariel replied before give Ralinor a soft push. "Say hello, Ralinor."

"Andaran Atish'an, Ariel." Ralinor greeted. She's very cute.

"Um, hi," Ariel hesitantly replied. "Sorry, I don't really know what that means."

"It's a traditional Dalish greeting," Ralinor explained. "Along with the Quenya and Sindarin languages, there are several."

Ariel was unsure what to think about the elvish boy her age. She never really met anyone her age and was unsure how to act. She did think that Ralinor was a little cute, though. He seemed like a nice person, at least.

"Perhaps you could help Ariel learn the elvish languages, Ralinor," Kel'noz noted. "She should learn more about the elven aspect of her ancestry."

"Then Ariel is going to Orthorbbae as well?" Altariel asked.

"Yes. She will be going to the Towers of Orthorbbae as well."

Altariel blinked at hiring this before tilting her head.

"The Towers are the male section of the school, unless things have changed since I've last been to Chel."

"No, things haven't changed. It's... it's complicated," Kel'noz replied.

Altariel gave Kel'noz a stern piercing look, causing him to feel nervous.

"You will tell me everything after I meet with Quain'tana."

"I will, I promise."

"Very well. We will meet with Quain'tana and then travel with you to Orthorbbae. See you soon," Altariel stated.

Ralinor and his mother then proceeded further into the fortress to the throne room. Upon entering and seeing Quain'tana, Ralinor was just as intimidated as Ariel was.

She looks like she could snap a man in half! Ralinor thought as he stared at the massive woman.

"Greeting, Ill'haress Quain'tana. You look as much the warrior as ever." Altariel greeted.

"The little elf girl who lived among us for many years has finally returned," Quain'tana replied. "Any improvements concerning your people?"

"Some very good improvements recently, yes," Altariel answered and gesture at her son. "This is my son, Ralinor Undomiel Lavellan. We are here to pay our respects before heading to Orthorbbae."

"Ahh, so this is 'him', is it?" Quain'tana noted while observing Ralinor. She then turned back to Altariel. "As you may know, I am sending my daughter Ariel to Orthorbbae as well. I request that you teach her all there is to know about elven history and culture. She needs to know these things for the future, if she is to become my heir."

"I would be happy to do so, Ill'haress," Altariel agreed. "I must ask you something of great importance. No doubt the Drow have heard about the Blight that has appeared in Ferelden. I humbly request Clan Sarghress' aid in battling the Blight."

"Why should I be concerned about the affairs of the surface kingdoms?"

"I understand why you don't consider the Darkspawn a threat. The Drow have never encountered them before due to you reappearing on the surface after the previous Blight, and due to the Deep Roads not being connected to the Underworld caverns. But I assure you, Quain'tana, that the Darkspawn are a true threat. If they destroy Ferelden, they will next march west towards Orlais and threaten you as well."

"You speak of this Blight as a threat to the entire world, and yet, four Blights have appeared and all of them defeated. Not so great of a threat in my opinion," Quain'tana refuted.

"Quain'tana-"

"If I send my troops to the surface, it will weaken my position here and the Sharens may take advantage of that. I cannot take that risk."

"Then you should make attempts to end the feud between your clans," Altariel argued.

"I'll end it when my clan marches and casts them down from the high and mighty pedestal that they stand upon, treating everyone else as inferior insects," Quain'tana declared. "I will only make peace when the Sharens are removed from their royal throne."

Ralinor flinched and instinctively hid behind his mother. Altariel sighed before shaking her head. "Do what you believe you must do, then... but in the end, it won't solve any problems the Drow face."

"We can handle our own problems well enough without outside interference," Quain'tana responded.

"Oh, I'm sure you can," Altariel replied sarcastically. "Anyways, I hope you will still consider my request for aiding the fight against the Blight. I do have another small request before I leave."

"And that is?"

"May I be permitted to visit Mel?"

"Mel'arnach has almost cost me some irreparable problems not more than an hour ago. Why should I allow this?" Quain'tana demanded.

"Consider it payment for tutoring Ariel about her ancient elven ancestry," Altariel replied.

Quain'tana gave a long stare at Altariel, who replied with an amused look. Quain'tana could count on one hand the number of people who could mock or challenge her and get away with it. Altariel was one of those people.

"Fine. I will allow it," Quain'tana grumbled.

"Thank you, Ill'haress. I will take my leave now. Good day," Altariel bowed before urging her son towards the exit.

"Elf boy," Quain'tana called out. Ralinor turned in confusion. "As the son of Altariel, there will be many in Chel'el'Sussoloth who will set high expectations for you... don't disappoint us."

"I'll try my best to not do so, Ill'haress," Ralinor replied.

Ralinor and his mother then left the throne room and traveled through the fortress until they came to a dark hallway that lead to an iron gate with a few guards. The guards opened the gate and let them pass. They then came to a dark room filled with spider webs with a single torch burning.

Ralinor huddled behind his mother, wondering what kind of person would stay in such a place. Altariel glanced around before a small smile graced her face.

"After all these years, this is how you are going to greet me, Mel?"

There was a gasp before a shadowy figure fell from the celling to her feet before Altariel and Ralinor. The shadows disappeared to reveal a wide-eyed Mel staring at Altariel with disbelief.

"A-Alta?" Mel breathed.

"Hello, Mel," Altariel replied with a smile.

"Alta!" Mel shouted before hugging the elf woman. "Mellon nin!"

The two friends held each other for a moment before separating. Ralinor observed Mel and could not help but think that Mel'arnach was without a doubt the most beautiful drow woman he had seen so far. Mel'arnach then turned her attention to him.

"Well, well," Mel spoke before she crouched and gave Ralinor a smile, causing him to blush a little. "Who's this handsome young man?"

"This is my son, Ralinor," Altariel answered. "Ralinor, this is one of my dearest friends, Mel'arnach."

"It is an honor to meet you, Lady Mel," Ralinor said with a little bow.

"So polite!" Mel'arnach said as she ruffled Ralinor's hair. "Pretty white hair, blue eyes, and pointed ears. He's going to be popular with the girls."

Altariel chuckled at that.

"I hope not too popular... although I wouldn't mind having a lot of grandchildren someday."

"Nana!" Ralinor yelled in Sindarin, embarrassed as both women chuckled at teasing him.

"May I asked what brought you back to the city?" Mel asked after she calmed down.

"Ralinor will be learning in Orthorbbae."

"Ah, I understand. My... sister, Ariel, have you met her? I learned that she is going as well." Mel'arnach asked.

"We did meet her. Quain'tana requested that I teach her of the elven ways," Altariel explained.

"Ariel seems very nice and pretty," Ralinor remarked. A sly smile appeared on Mel'arnach's face at hearing that.

"Oh, so you like her?"

"I-I just think that she seems like a kind person," Ralinor stammered.

"Yes... she is," Mel'arnach slowly replied with a sad look in her eye. Altariel stared at her friend for a moment before turning to Ralinor.

"Ralinor, would you please wait outside for a moment? I wish to speak with Mel in private."

"Alright, mother," Ralinor replied before stepping back out of the room.

When he was gone, Altariel faced Mel'arnach again.

"Mel... Ariel is more than what she seems, isn't she? As soon as I saw her, I couldn't help but notice the resemblance. Tell me, is she... ?"

"Yes," Mel softly replied.

"So, my suspicions are correct," Altariel said with a thoughtful look. "Ariel isn't Quain'tana's daughter. She is really your daughter, making her Quain'tana's granddaughter."

"Yes, she is my little girl... taken from me ten years ago by my own bitch of a mother!" Mel'arnach growled an anger.

"But why would Quain'tana pose Ariel as her own daughter unless..." Altariel mused before glancing towards a side room where a large purple spider was standing, half-hidden in the darkness. "Is he the father?"

"Yes, Zhor is Ariel's father," Mel'arnach admitted as the purple spider walked over to her and nudged her with care in its eight eyes.

"So, Ariel is technically a half-blood, despite that Zhor was not always a spider. This could cause controversy in the clan, which Quain'tana was hoping to avoid. Easy to keep quiet since Ariel has no spider parts that I could see," Altariel summed up.

"I had hoped that she would," Mel'arnach confessed, causing Altariel to raise an eye. "Extra eyes or the lower body of a spider, I wouldn't have cared. She was my daughter and I would love her no matter what."

"... Quain'tana would have nothing to do with a half-breed, but Ariel was born with regular features, so Quain'tana took her from me," Mel'arnach's hands tremble as she teared up. "I saw her today, Alta. As soon as I laid eyed on her, I know it was my precious little girl. For the first time in ten years, I held her in my arms. I was so happy... I wanted to take her and Zhor and run away from this place to the surface. To find your clan and live among the Dalish away from this shit of a city."

"But you didn't," Altariel replied. "You knew that if you did, Quain'tana would hunt you down, regardless of the consequences."

"Quain'tana..." Mel'arnach spoke the name with hatred. "My mother was so determined to secure her fucking legacy! I wanted nothing to do with it all, Syphile disgraced herself, and Laele'aell... she would have been the perfect heir that Quain'tana wanted and was willing to be that heir... until that incident occurred and she..."

"I remember that day. What happened to Laele'aell was tragic. The incident where Laele'aell's mind was destroyed by a demon, leaving her as an empty husk," Altariel sighed at the memory.

"After that, Quain'tana was so desperate to find an heir to her legacy, she was willing to take my daughter and pass her off as her own." Mel'arnach growled again as she thought of Quain'tana before her face fell. "I-I should have told Ariel the truth... she was frightened of me. I should have just told her and..."

"It is probably better that you didn't," Altariel interjected, causing Mel's head to shoot up. "Ariel grew up believing she was the daughter of Quain'tana. If you suddenly told her otherwise, she would be confused and maybe even angry."

"I want my daughter back, Altariel!" Mel'arnach shouted. "Do you have any idea what it's like to be separated from your child for ten years?! Not being able to even see her? I know that Syphile has treated Ariel horribly and she'd better pray that I don't get my hands on her!"

"I know it hurts. It always hurt my heart when I would leave my clan on some diplomatic mission and I wouldn't see my children for weeks or months." Altariel calmly replied before she laid a hand over Mel's "But you can't suddenly force this on Ariel. She must slowly realize it for herself. Be a little more patient, and you can be with your daughter someday."

"Kel'noz told me something similar. I have waited a long time... I can wait a little more," Mel finally agreed. She then grasped Altariel's hand with a pleading look. "Promise me, Alta. Please promise me that you'll watch over Ariel."

"I promise, my friend. I'll do everything I can to help her."

"Thank you."

Outside the room, Ralinor was calmly sitting before his mother and Mel'arnach finally appeared.

"It is time for us to leave, Ralinor."

"Ralinor," Mel'arnach spoke up as she crouched in front of Ralinor. "May I ask a favor from you?"

"What is that?" Ralinor asked.

"My... sister, Ariel, doesn't really have any friends. Could I ask that you be her friend?"

"Of course. I think I would like being friends with Ariel," Ralinor said with a nod.

Mel'arnach smirked a bit before she leaned forward and whispered into Ralinor's ear.

"You know... Ariel is going to be much more beautiful than me someday."

Ralinor's face heated up again and tried looking away. Mel'arnach laughed at this.

"You're so easy to tease," Mel said before she surprised Ralinor by kissing his forehead. "I wish you and Ariel good luck in Orthorbbae."

"I-I, uhh, thank you," Ralinor stammered.

"Oh, cut it out, Mel. You're going to give my son a heart attack," Altariel berated before smiling and hugging her friend. "Farewell, for now."

"Farewell, my friend. And to you too, Ralinor," Mel'arnach replied before they separated and Mel'arnach headed back into her quarters with Altariel and Ralinor heading back to the front gate.

Ostagar, Ferelden

"It would be best to wait for Orlais to send reinforcements to aid the coming battle. There is more at stake here than just the Blight," Gandalf insisted to the gathered war council.

"We don't need any Orlesians help to deal with this Blight. If it is indeed a Blight, that is," Loghain retorted. "We don't need the opinion of an old apostate who spouts about some fantasy dark lord from the past."

"Mithrandir is well respected among my people. If he says this is a Blight, then I believe him," spoke up a young Dalish elf, recently recruited into the Grey Wardens.

"I agree as well, Your Majesty," spoke up Duncan. "We should consider the possibility of the Archdemon appearing."

"Wait, wait!" the young King Cailan interrupted. "I know this is all important, but I must get things straight. You are a wizard, one of these 'Istari'. Considered an apostate by the Chantry."

"Yes, I am a wizard," Gandalf replied.

"You are human and yet you believe in elven gods, two sets of pantheons, in fact. And, you're telling us that there some sort of ancient Dark Lord manipulating the darkspawn to test or weaken us all so that he may return to try and rule over the world?" Cailan asked.

"Yes, Your Majesty, that is true," Gandalf insisted.

"That... is fantastic! When we win the battle, we need to include all that in the songs that will be written!" Cailan insisted in excitement, causing everyone to groan.

"Eru Iluvatar, save me from this." Gandalf spoke as he face palmed.

Chapter End

Elven language: I apologize if I make any mistakes.

Ma falon: (Dalish) My friend.

Namarie, melda heri: (Quenya) Farewell, beloved lady.

Mellon nin: (Sindarin) My friend.

Nana: (Sindarin) Mommy.

Author's note: Had some good and dark moments here. The drow really know how to be tough on their own. Next chapter, we will arrive at Orthorbbae and meet a bunch more entertaining characters from Drowtales! How did you guys do with all the complicated name? Don't worry, there will be a lot more!

Thranduil: You had me killed in the first chapter?

Ranting Ryuu: Hey, you managed to injure Sauron and... ok, I'm sorry, but I have to ask... when you're sitting up there on your throne like that, does anyone else mistaken you as Jareth the Goblin King?

Thranduil: You remind me of the babe.

Ranting Ryuu: huh, what babe?

Thranduil: The babe with the power.

Ranting Ryuu: ... Oh, I see what you did there, smug prick. Hope to see you all in the next chapter!