A/N: Fair warning - I included some dialogue from the game because I wanted to remain as true to the story as I could. Hope you enjoy!
Disclaimer: I do not own Dragon Age Origins or any of its characters - They are the property of Bioware.
Chapter 2 – Ostagar
Traveling with Duncan was the first of what was to be many new experiences for Ashlyn. In this particular case, it was riding together behind him on his horse. It seemed wrong to use the animal in this way, as the Dalish elves would never treat the halla in such a manner. But as Duncan reminded her, they were in a hurry. Forces were gathering in Ostagar under King Cailan's banner to take a stand against a building darkspawn horde that had gathered in the Korcari Wilds. Duncan was sure this was the beginning of a Blight, and he needed to seek out another recruit in Highever before the battle commenced. He planned on dropping Ashlyn off in Ostagar on his way to Highever so that the mages there could help her keep the taint under control until the Joining ritual was performed.
At least he is kind to his horse, Ashlyn thought as they traveled along. Duncan stopped often to let the horse drink from streams and rest. It was at one of these stops that she sensed a wounded animal nearby. In addition to having strong survival skills, Ashlyn was also specialized as a ranger. Rangers could easily commune with beings in nature, and she had the impression that a wolf was in pain just a little further down the stream.
"I'll be right back," Ashlyn said to Duncan as she went to investigate what was causing the wolf such distress. She walked into a small clearing, and quickly perceived several hidden spring traps. Close to the stream, she located the animal and the reason for its suffering. A beautiful grey forest wolf was struggling to free her back right leg from the clutches of one of those cruel traps. What sort of horrid person would leave so many traps strewn about? Well, there is no way that I am going to leave such a remarkable creature to this merciless fate.
The female wolf growled low as Ashlyn approached. While looking into the animal's eyes, Ashlyn gently spoke, "Shhh, it is all right my friend. I want to help you." The wolf thoroughly assessed Ashlyn, as if trying to determine whether the elf could be trusted. She finally quieted down, and Ashlyn knew it was safe to advance. She knelt next to the wolf and set to work on disabling the trap. Once the wolf's leg was free, she gave a quick lick to Ashlyn's cheek in thanks. "You are most welcome," Ashlyn said with a small smile.
"That is the first smile I have seen from you," Duncan stated from several yards away. The forest wolf snarled and instantly placed herself between Ashlyn and Duncan.
"It's okay. Hush now, he is a friend as well," Ashlyn told her growling protector while she soothingly stroked the soft hair along the animal's back. The wolf calmed down but remained by the water as Ashlyn stood to go meet Duncan.
"I am sorry Duncan. I know I have not been an easy companion to travel with," Ashlyn said.
"I understand, no need to apologize. The past several days have been extremely difficult for you. Are you ready to move on?"
"Umm, give me just a second." Ashlyn picked up a fallen branch and used it to disable the rest of the traps in clearing. All the while, the wolf's sharp eyes followed Ashlyn's movements. When the last trap was rendered useless, Ashlyn walked back to the wolf.
"There now, you won't have to worry about getting caught in any of those traps again," she told the wolf. She brought her travel bag down from her shoulder and searched inside it for a moment. After retrieving a health poultice and some bandages, she sat next to the wolf and quickly dressed its back leg wounds. "That should do it. You ought to be healed up in no time. Farewell my friend, take care of yourself," she said giving one last caress to the animal's head. The wolf gave another small lick to Ashlyn's hand to say goodbye and raced off through the trees.
Duncan smiled at Ashlyn as they returned to where the horse was waiting. "I have met very few true rangers in all of my travels, but I am most impressed by the kindness and compassion you showed to that forest wolf. You have an amazing gift," Duncan complemented.
"Thank you Duncan. Not just for saying that, but for everything you have done. I know I wouldn't be alive if you hadn't found me and taken me back to Keeper Marethari. I am also grateful that you asked me to join the Grey Wardens. You have given me something to fight for again… I will do my best not to let you down."
"I have complete faith in you, Ashlyn. You will be a welcome addition to our ranks. Now, let's get back on the road. We should reach Ostagar before sundown if we hurry."
- - - - - Passage of Time - - - - -
Ostagar was a massive fortress built up on the cliffs overseeing the Korcari Wilds. But even though the size was remarkable, it was all of the people there that drew Ashlyn's attention. Duncan is a human, and all things considered, traveling with him was not bad at all. He is genuinely a good person. Perhaps my people have outcast themselves for so long that we really do not know the true character of the humans.
As they dismounted, Ashlyn asked, "When are you leaving for Castle Cousland?"
"First thing tomorrow morn---"
"Duncan, you're back!" An excited voice interrupted. "And you brought a friend? Well, she looks to be a Dalish elf so I hope she is friendly," a strawberry-blond human male said with a wide smile.
"She is our new sister, Alistair. This is Ashlyn Mahariel of the Dalish elves, and yes, she is very friendly… once you give her the chance to actually speak," Duncan said laughing at Alistair.
Alistair walked right over to Ashlyn and said, "Pleasure to meet you, Ashlyn of the Dalish elves. I am Alistair, junior member of the Grey Wardens, and from now on your never ending source of jokes and comic relief."
Alistair's attitude was infectious and Ashlyn could not help but teasingly ask Duncan, "Is he always like this?"
Duncan laughed and said, "Oh he is just getting warmed up. Don't worry, you get used to him in time. Alistair, would you mind finding a tent for Ashlyn and getting her settled in for the night?"
"Of course not. It would be my honor, my lady," Alistair said while bowing to Ashlyn.
"Thank you, Alistair. I must seek out the mages, but I wish to speak to you before you go to sleep," Duncan said.
"Sure thing Duncan. Right this way," Alistair said leading Ashlyn towards the Grey Warden camp while Duncan headed off towards where the mages were gathered.
Along the way, Alistair kept pointing out different areas of the fortress. "The King's army camp is just to the north, and the Circle Mages are currently making their home to the east. You can reach the quartermaster and the Chantry priests if you continue up that path. And here we are… home sweet home," Alistair motioned with his hands towards an area of the camp full of tents and large bonfires. Now why don't you just have a seat right here by the fire, and I will return shortly with some food-like substance we call dinner around here."
Ashlyn placed her travel pack on the ground and gratefully sat down. The trip to Ostagar had been rough. She was looking forward to a good night's sleep. Alistair returned quickly with two steaming bowls. "You got lucky on your first night, this rabbit stew is actually edible." He handed her one of the bowls and took a seat next to her.
Ashlyn hesitantly took a bite. This isn't so bad. It just needs some seasoning. Ashlyn reached into her pack to find the bundle of herbs she brought. All elves were taught at a young age about herbs… which ones could heal, poison, or be used in food preparation. Finding what she was looking for, she asked Alistair for his bowl.
"If you think you can improve it, be my guest." Alistair gave his partially eaten bowl to her. She sprinkled a few of the herbs over both bowls of stew and gave his back.
He accepted the bowl but then just stared at her.
"What?" she asked.
"Just was going to watch you eat it first... Make sure you didn't poison it or anything," Alistair replied with a grin.
"Ha, ha." Ashlyn rolled her eyes then took a bite of her stew. Oh yes, this is much better. When Alistair saw the contentment spread over Ashlyn's face, he cautiously tried the stew.
"Wow, that's what stew is supposed to taste like. Now, if you happen to have some cheese in that sack, you would become my new favorite person," Alistair said before really digging in to his bowl.
Ashlyn smiled. "Sorry, no cheese, but I am glad you like it."
They remained quiet as they finished eating. Ashlyn would get lost in her thoughts and stare off into the fire every once in a while before getting back to her bowl. A few men passed by and called out greetings to Alistair, who nodded his head but continued to eat his stew as if he hadn't eaten in days. She overheard the men say they were on their way to go have a drink with the King. The King drinks with his soldiers? At least he is a man of his people. After she was done, he helped her up and said, "All right, time to find a tent and some basic supplies for you. Let's go visit the supply wagon."
At the wagon, they were able to find a tent, some bedding, and a few extra items Ashlyn thought might come in handy later.
"There is some room between mine and Jayden's tents, if you would like to settle there."
"Sure, but who is Jayden?" Ashlyn inquired.
"Oh, sorry. I forgot you hadn't met the other new recruits yet. Jayden, Daveth, and Ser Jory will all be going through the Joining with you," Alistair replied.
"This is it," Alistair said when they reached the camp site. As they worked together to get her tent set up, an auburn haired human male came out the tent on her left and offered to help. "Sure Jayden," Alistair said smiling. "But let me introduce you first. This is our new neighbor and sister, Ashlyn Mahariel of the Dalish Elves."
"Good to meet you. I am Jayden Amell of the Circle of Magi."
"Aneth ara Jayden, and thank you for helping us."
Jayden was nearly as tall as Alistair, but where Alistair had a muscular warrior's build, Jayden had more of lean frame. Ashlyn studied Jayden for a second. Definitely a mage, and a strong one at that judging by his aura. From my understanding, mages are outcasts, too. Forced to spend most of their lives confined to the Circle Tower. Perhaps I will find a kindred spirit in this man.
Ashlyn let out a long yawn right when they had finished setting up her tent.
"Looks like we got it up just in time," Jayden told Alistair.
"Yeah, I guess you won't have to cast a sleeping spell on her tonight, Jayden," Alistair joked.
"Well, I think I am going to call it a night as well. See you in the morning," Jayden said as he returned to his tent.
"And I need to find Duncan," Alistair stated. "Do you need anything else before I take my leave?"
"No, but thank you again for helping me this evening. And for being so kind... I was not sure how well I would be accepted out in the human world," Ashlyn responded.
"Doesn't matter what your race is in this camp. Here, we are all one big happy family. Goodnight." Alistair smiled one last time, then turned to go search for Duncan.
Ashlyn's expression fell as she realized what this meant. Alone at last. I haven't been alone since I woke up from the taint. Ashlyn gathered up her pack and new belongings and took them inside her tent. She changed into a long men's shirt that she would use as a sleeping gown and placed herself under her new blanket. I haven't fallen apart yet... I guess it is time, Ashlyn thought as the first of her tears began to fall.
- - - - - With Alistair - - - - -
While searching for Duncan, Alistair thought to himself, a little shy, but Ashlyn is very nice. She may even make a good bantering partner when she warms up to me. But there were moments this evening when she seemed so sad, as if her mind was taking her to another place and time. I wonder what happened to her. Alistair finally saw Duncan, who was returning from the direction of the mages' camp.
"Alistair, good. I am glad you waited up on me. I have much to discuss with you, but we must speak in private. Please follow me to my tent."
"Of course, Duncan," Alistair replied and walked with him back across camp. He realized Duncan had something serious to talk with him about and now was not the time for joking around.
Once inside the tent, Duncan said, "I need you to watch over Ashlyn for me while I am gone the next few days. She has been through quite the ordeal."
"But I thought you told me not to get too attached to the new recruits until after their initiation," Alistair responded.
"I don't think we will have to worry about Ashlyn not surviving the Joining. She has already been living with taint for the past several days."
"What? How is that even possible?" Alistair asked.
Duncan then explained about the Tevinter mirror, and how he had found Ashlyn outside the ancient ruins. He said he was even more surprised to see her there a few days later. "She has already battled several Genlocks, all while fighting the taint on her own. I knew she would make an excellent addition to the Grey Wardens and that the Joining ritual could lengthen her life, so I asked her to join us. Her clan's leader agreed to let her go and explained that she had been able to use some of her magic to help Ashlyn hold off the taint. That is why I had to speak to the mages tonight, to see if they could produce an elixir to keep her going until the Joining."
"I sensed a great sadness from her. I had no idea she had been through so much, though."
"Yes, she has lost much too. Her companion was never found. From my understanding, he was her best friend and future life mate. Anyway, a spritely older mage named Wynne agreed to make some potions for her to take every day until the Joining," Duncan said while handing over several vials of a dark brown liquid.
"You can count on me, Duncan," Alistair said as he began to head back to his tent. Before he got very far, he turned back to Duncan and asked, "Who are you hoping to recruit in Highever?"
"I am told Bryce Cousland's youngest shows promising talent. The real trick is going to be convincing the Teyrn to part with his only daughter."
- - - - - The Next Morning With Alistair - - - - -
Alistair woke up at dawn, thinking about everything he had learned the night before. After bidding Duncan goodnight and a safe trip, he had returned to his tent. He heard soft sobs coming from Ashlyn's direction and his heart broke. He knew then that he was going to watch over her and protect her as best as he could. So this is what it feels like to have a sister? First thing in the morning, I will start acting like the caring older brother and make sure she gets her medicine.
Alistair dressed for the day before stepping out into the morning sunlight. To his surprise, Ashlyn was already awake and sitting by the fire cooking what looked to be eggs and ham in a large pan. Jayden was sitting next to her, quietly talking about life in the Circle Tower.
"Good, you are up. I am making you and Jayden breakfast to thank you for all of your help yesterday, and I think it is just about done," Ashlyn said with a smile. Although, now he realized her smile did not reach her eyes.
"You didn't have to do that.. but whatever you're cooking smells fantastic!" Alistair said eagerly. "You know, I could get used to this. I believe the food around here is going to drastically improve with you around."
Alistair sat down to eat beside the new recruits. Jayden continued on with his story about how his friend Jowan had betrayed him with blood magic. "I was lucky Duncan was there or First Enchanter Irving may not have been able to keep the templars from arresting me, even though I was working under Irving's orders. Some templars can be such tight-asses… like our boy Alistair here," Jayden jokingly said while nudging Alistair with his elbow.
Alistair laughed and said, "Hey, hey! Remember I never actually became a full templar. I am only trained as one, so you better watch it the next time you dare compare me to those self-important, Chantry-loving, tight-asses."
This outburst caused them all to start laughing. It was apparent that there was no love lost between Alistair and the Chantry's templars. As they quieted down, Alistair decided it was time to speak with Ashlyn about the task Duncan had charged him with. "Ashlyn, do you have a moment? Duncan left some instructions for you while he was away."
"Sure. Do you want to go for a walk?" Ashlyn replied. "We can talk along the way."
"Yeah, that sounds like a good idea. We'll see you later, Jayden," Alistair said as he and Ashlyn took off through the camp.
Alistair decided not to delve right into conversation immediately. Instead, they walked in silence for a while until they reached a cliff that offered a spectacular view of the Korcari Wilds. Now is the best chance I have had to bring this up. Here it goes…
"Duncan told me last night about what happened to you before you left your Dalish clan. I am so sorry, for everything you have been through. I cannot imagine the pain you have suffered. If you ever need to talk to someone, I will be here for you."
"Thank you Alistair," Ashlyn said. "You have no idea how much it means to hear someone say that."
Alistair leaned in and gave her a friendly hug. When he pulled back, he continued, "Duncan asked me to give you these," Alistair reached into a hidden pocket behind his armor and handed the vials of magic elixir to Ashlyn. "He said to take one potion a day, and that it will keep you safe until the Joining ritual is performed… And no, before you ask, I am not allowed to talk to you about the Joining. Duncan will tell you more when the time is right."
Ashlyn nodded and gratefully accepted the potions. She unscrewed the cap off of one, said "Cheers," and downed the contents of the vial with a grimace. It took a moment, but then she sighed and said, "It is getting easier already to fight the taint. I must thank Duncan when he returns. Did he happen to mention how long his journey would be?"
"Yeah, he was figuring about four days. I have to admit I am surprised as to who he is going to try to recruit," Alistair snorted.
"Who is he trying to recruit?" Ashlyn asked.
"Teryn Cousland's daughter. Now you, I can understand why Duncan brought you back. The Dalish are known for being fierce warriors, but a female noble? I am not sure the Grey Warden life is fit for a lady who is used to a life of luxury, if you can understand what I mean."
"Maybe this woman will surprise you, change your opinion of female nobles. From what little I know of Duncan, he wouldn't pick someone he did not believe was worthy of becoming a Grey Warden," Ashlyn reasoned.
"You make a good point. If nothing else, you will potentially have another female to carry on with whenever you get mad at the male sex, as I am told women are apt to do," Alistair said with a hint of humor.
Ashlyn returned to looking out over the Korcari Wilds. She has that sad, distant look in her eyes again, Alistair thought.
Suddenly she turned to him and asked, "Since I am feeling better, I would like to get some exercise. Is there a shooting range in camp somewhere? I would like to practice with my bow, and I could use the distraction from my thoughts."
Alistair nodded and said, "Sounds like an excellent idea. I will take you there right away."
- - - - - Passage of Time, With Ashlyn - - - - -
Alistair had left some time ago, after being amazed by watching Ashlyn shoot. He had said something about how it was true, the legends of the Dalish skill in archery. I am not nearly as good as Tamlen is… was… gods, this is so hard, thinking of him as being gone. She wiped a stray tear away, and sent two arrows flying at a target several yards away.
"Most impressive," a voice from behind her said after both arrows hit where she had intended. Ashlyn turned to see that Jayden had been watching her practice. "But can you hit a moving target?," he asked as he brought his staff from behind his back and cast a telekinesis spell out at the scarecrow she had been shooting at, causing it to hover off the ground and sway slowly back and forth. "Hope you don't mind, but this way we both get some practice in. And I don't have to go ask the other circle mages to spar with me," Jayden shuddered. "Some of them are way too high-strung for me."
"I think it's a great idea!" Ashlyn exclaimed, and readied her bow to shoot at Jayden's moving target.
Alistair had joined in with Ashlyn and Jayden's training later that afternoon. They had spent most of the day laughing, with a little actual practicing mixed in. Alistair worked with Ashlyn on her hand to hand, and Jayden even sportingly allowed Alistair to practice some of his templar skills on him. By the end of the afternoon, the trio had agreed to practice together on a daily basis.
Ashlyn met Daveth when they returned to camp that evening. A little paranoid, but he seems friendly enough. Maybe a little too friendly… Ashlyn thought as she and Alistair watched Daveth once again try to work his womanizing skills on a female soldier from the King's army.
Out of nowhere, they saw the woman slap Daveth and stomp off back to her camp. After a long period of laughing, Alistair wiped tears out of his eyes and said, "You know, we might all be able to go home if Daveth would just come on to every darkspawn that came this way. With the way his charms seem to chase women away, surely the darkspawn would rush back to the deep roads."
Daveth's carefree attitude made him practically the exact opposite of Ser Jory, who more or less seemed to be here only for the glory and fame that came with being a Grey Warden. Ashlyn did not think very highly of Ser Jory and decided to avoid him whenever possible.
After dinner, Jayden walked with Ashlyn back to their tents. "So, are you finding Ostagar as overwhelming as I am?" he asked.
"Oh yes, my clan usually avoided human settlements. I never imagined what it would be like to be surrounded by so many people. It has been a very educational experience."
Jayden chuckled and said, "You can say that again. I hadn't been out of the Circle Tower since I was a small boy. There are so many sights to see and people to talk to. I have always wanted to see the world. And now thanks to Duncan, I can make a difference in it as well."
"Duncan is a good person. I was lucky he found me when he did. I wouldn't be alive if he hadn't," Ashlyn said.
"Now that sounds like an interesting story." At Ashlyn's hesitation, Jayden continued, "You will have to tell me about it someday."
Ashlyn nodded and answered, "Someday."
"Well, I don't know about you, but I am beat. Time to get some sleep," Jayden declared as he headed toward his tent.
"Goodnight," Ashlyn replied. Duncan isn't the only human who has earned my respect, Ashlyn thought as she prepared for bed. Alistair and Jayden already feel like brothers. At least I am not nearly as lonely as I thought I would be.
- - - - - Passage of Time - - - - -
The days had passed like an eerie calm before the storm. Everyone seemed to be more on edge every day as the impending battle drew closer. The day of Duncan's promised return finally arrived. Ashlyn, Alistair, and Jayden had been training early that morning when Alistair was called away do some task for the Revered Mother.
"We'll meet you back at camp," Ashlyn called after Alistair.
Jayden and Ashlyn had just returned to the Grey Warden base when they saw that Duncan had arrived and was talking with Daveth and Ser Jory. Sitting beside Duncan was a brown mabari hound.
"Welcome back," Jayden said to Duncan as he and Ashlyn approached.
"Yes, I am glad we made it back before the battle started," Duncan replied.
"We?" Ashlyn asked. "I am going to assume you recruited a person, and not a dog."
"Oh yes. Duke here is the loyal mabari hound of our new recruit. Her name is Arianna Cousland. She comes to us under difficult circumstances, though. Her father, Teyrn Cousland, was planning on marching here today with his army, but he was betrayed by Arl Howe of Amaranthine. Howe's men attacked the castle two nights ago. The Teyrn was fatally wounded, and his wife would not leave his side when Arianna and I were forced to make our escape," Duncan explained.
"This is awful news!" Ser Jory exclaimed. "I hail from Highever. Bryce Cousland was an honorable man."
"Yes, this is quite a tragedy," Duncan stated.
Piqued at the chance to meet another female, Daveth asked, "But where is this woman?"
"When we first arrived, I heard that the Revered Mother had Alistair off upsetting the mages. I asked Arianna to look for him in the mages' camp while I started to get things prepared for the Joining ritual. You will all be sent on a mission this afternoon before the initiation tonight. I will speak more of this when Arianna and Alistair return."
- - - - - With Alistair - - - - -
"I simply come to deliver a message, ser mage. The Revered Mother desires your presence," Alistair said with as much patience as he could muster.
"What the Reverence 'desires' is of no concern to me. I am busy helping the Grey Wardens, by the King's orders, I might add!" the mage exclaimed.
"Should I have asked her to write a note?" Alistair asked exasperated.
"Tell her I will not be harassed in this manner!"
"Yes, I was harassing you by delivering a message," Alistair told the unreasonable mage. "Here I thought we were getting along so well! I was even going to name one of my children after you… the grumpy one."
"Enough! I will speak to the woman if I must. Get out of my way fool," the upset mage said while brushing past what could have possibly been the most beautiful woman Alistair had ever seen. She had sky blue eyes with braided blond hair that had been pinned back. He realized that she had been quietly observing his fight with the circle mage.
As she approached, Alistair couldn't help but say, "You know, one good thing about the Blight is how it brings people together."
"I know exactly what you mean," she said with a timid smile.
"Wait, you're not a mage are you?"
"No, I am definitely not a mage. Are you Alistair, by any chance?" she asked hesitantly.
"Yep, that's me." It was then that Alistair noticed the shield she carried had the crest of Highever. "Wait, are you a Grey Warden recruit?" Alistair inquired. Could this really be the noble woman Duncan went to enlist?
"Yes, my name is Arianna Cousland. Duncan asked me to come find you and meet him back at the Grey Warden camp."
"Well, let's not keep him waiting," Alistair said suddenly not wanting to be alone with this woman any longer than he needed to be. Must not get attached. Must not get attached. At least not yet, but if she lives through the Joining...
Arianna followed Alistair back to the campsite. She was very friendly and their conversation came easily, but he was having a hard time focusing on anything other than her lovely face. He was so worried that he was going to embarrass himself before they reached camp that he was quite relieved when Duncan and the other new recruits came into view.
"Excellent, we are all here now," Duncan addressed the group. "I assume everyone is ready, unless of course you are not quite finished riling up mages, Alistair."
"What can I say? The Revered Mother ambushed me. With the way she wields guilt, the King should throw her into the army. She could be a powerful weapon," Alistair replied.
"She forced you to sass the mage, did she? We cannot afford to make enemies out of those who would be our allies. We must be united if we are to defeat the darkspawn."
"Of course, Duncan. I apologize," Alistair said sincerely.
"Now then, I am sending all of you into the Korcari Wilds to perform two tasks. The first is to obtain five vials of darkspawn blood, one vial for each of you new recruits."
"Why do we need those?" Ser Jory asked with disgust.
"They are a necessary part of the Joining ritual. I will explain more when you return," Duncan answered.
"What is the second task?" Arianna asked in a determined voice.
"The Grey Wardens once had an outpost in the Korcari Wilds long ago. It was abandoned when we could no longer afford to maintain such remote locations. It has recently come to our attention that some scrolls were left behind at that outpost. They were magically sealed for protection. These scrolls are treaties promising support. Treaties that may prove useful in the days to come. Your second task is to retrieve these scrolls if you can."
"Understood," Jayden said. "When are we leaving?"
"As soon as you all have gathered weapons and necessary supplies," Duncan answered. "Duke may stay with me, Arianna, if you would like."
Arianna gave her consent, and then the group broke apart to get prepared for their journey into the Korcari Wilds. "Alistair, may I have a word before you leave," Duncan requested.
"Certainly," Alistair said as he returned to Duncan's side.
"I already told the new recruits before you arrived, but I also want you to be aware of the events that led to my arrival." Duncan quickly gave Alistair the same story he had told the others. "Like Ashlyn, she is dealing with recent loss of loved ones, but I do not think it will affect her ability to fight whatever you will face in the Wilds. Even so, watch over your charges Alistair. Return quickly and safely."
"We will Duncan," Alistair said with a nod.
"Very well. Then may the Maker watch over your path. I will see you when you return."