Hey guys here's Betrayal part 2!
I had a lot of fun writing this
It's long but not too long like some of the other Chapters
Enjoy...
The Deep Roads
Strange Ruins
Only path left to the group
Garrett Hawke looked around the hallway with the others warily gripping his Longsword. The passage they had followed had led into this strange labyrinth filled with hallways that were slightly encase with odd Red Lyrium.
When they had first exited the passage Garrett had turned to Anders asking "these halls as bad as that room?" Garrett had been relieved that Anders shook his head saying "no not as bad as that room but some parts of this place resist Magic." Garrett realized that the Red Lyrium protected the walls but didn't stop Anders from using his Magic only weakened it and knew Magic would come in handy.
There were a lot of hallways in this strange labyrinth and they had to chose which passages to go down which meant a lot of dangerous guess work. Sometimes this chance was made for them when some paths being caved in but other times they'd stumbled upon the Corpses of long dead Darkspawn along the paths.
Strangely the only constant about the Darkspawn Corpses was that they were pummeled to death and that oddly there was almost always a pile of 'smashed rocks' laying about the bodies.
The smashed rocks aren't from inside these ruins... there from somewhere else so there's an exit somewhere Garrett thought still a bit curious about why the Darkspawn seemed to have died near rocks that were brought in.
Either way it was reassuring to the whole group that there was evidence of an exit and they'd just have to find it amongst all the passages. Garrett had had the idea to mark the walls every now and again with a small cut to make sure they never went in circles and since Garrett was the only one who could bypass the Red Lyrium strange protection.
It drained Garrett so he had to do it sparingly and even Anders admitted he was glad Garrett had learned a few of Templar Talents since it was the only thing that seemed to bypass the Red Lyrium's protection.
Fenris had wanted to try and 'phase' the Red Lyrium out of the walls so Garrett didn't have to waste energy and Anders could use his Magic better. They'd all been surprised by Fenris wanting Anders to use Magic like that but he responded saying "Magic has it's uses and right now we could use all the help we can get." Before Fenris had even tired Anders had stopped him saying "I don't think you should try it. It protected the walls and so must protect itself."
Garrett had nodded saying "Fenris that Red Lyrium is the source of the protection it might kill you if you attack it directly... remember what happened at that door." "Don't remind me, come on Fenris we just have find a way out the old fashioned way" Varric had said putting Fenris at ease for not being able to fight this.
Can't blame Fenris for that... this situation isn't something we fight with brute force Garrett thought understanding Fenris's trouble with being down here potentially trapped.
I'm just glad mother made Bethany stayed in Kirkwall... if she was down here with us, possibly trapped, dangerously low on supplies and amongst Darkspawn... I'd rather not think about that Garrett thought turning around a corner with the others and entering a long hallway... that led to clearing.
"An exit?" Garrett asked glad to see something that didn't appear to be part of these ruins. "Looks like but there's only one way to fine out, come on Hawke" Varric said as Fenris shifted gripping his Fighting Greatsword. Garrett nodded and took point with Fenris walking beside him down the long hallway. When the group was about halfway through Anders suddenly stopped them saying "Hawke wait."
Garrett and Fenris turned around to look at Anders as Varric listened beside the ex-Warden. Anders looked down the long hallway and into the clearing saying "... there's Darkspawn over there. We should be careful." "How many?" Garrett asked tightening his grip on his Longsword as Varric pulled his trusty Crossbow Bianca. "Can't give you an exact number but there's a lot... and something else" Anders said warily as he gripped his Staff.
"Let's check it out carefully" Garrett said in a low voice as he gestured for everyone to be quite then took point leading them down the rest of the long hallway. Upon stepping out of the long hallway and into the large clearing Garrett and the others heard an odd noise... it sounded like fighting.
The clearing was big with boulders everywhere and had a steep slope pretty far down Garrett and the other noticed as they slowly and quietly headed towards the steep slope and perched on a boulder and took a look below where the noise was coming form.
What in Thedas is this? Garrett thought slightly agape with the others at sight below them at the bottom of steep slope where lone passage lay. There right in front of lone passage a small battle was ongoing... that battle didn't surprise any of them for they had all seen battles but rather the occupants of the battle.
There were Darkspawn down there and quiet of a few of them... fighting against living rock. Living rock seemingly to have assembled themselves into twisted shapes... a shifting parody of a humanoid creature with dark red baleful eyes.
A large group of Darkspawn were grouped down there with six Living Rocks fighting them brutally as if they'd been pushed back but wouldn't give up. There were about nine Darkspawn Corpses laying about with five piles of smashed rock mixed in... that explains the Darkspawn Corpses and the rocks in the Labyrinth Garrett thought in suddenly realization.
"In all my time in Tevinter I've never heard of something like this" Fenris said in a low voice gazing at the fight below them. Garrett looked at Anders whom shook his head saying "no idea Hawke, never seen this either."
Maker, Anders was a Warden and even he doesn't know what this is Garrett thought warily as he took another look at the fight below. Then Varric spoke up surprising all of them as he said "... I know what those things are. I thought they were just myths Bartand told to scary me as a kid. Rock Wraiths... Dwarfs so corrupt even the Stone rejects them."
"Well looks like those Legends are true Varric.. only question is who do we root for? The Darkspawn or these Rock Wraiths?" Garrett said in a low voice thinking aloud and looking at the others.
Fenris shrugged saying "they're both evil let them fight it out." Varric shrugged saying "we can't stay hidden here forever. The only way left to go is down there." Anders looked at Garrett thinking intently before saying "... can't believe I'm saying this Hawke but the Darkspawn are actually helping by being unknowing scouts for us."
Garrett looked down again seeing the last surviving Rock Wraith fighting frantically against the Darkspawn. The Rock Wraith bashed Darkspawn left and right with what pasted for 'hands' as the Darkspawn slashed and smashed with everything they had. Garrett watched the spectacle thinking Anders is right the Darkspawn are clearing a path for us...
"Alright so maybe we... lend the Darkspawn a hand?" Varric asked curiously as he looked at the last Rock Wraith warily. "Do we really know if those Rock Wraiths are bad... their not pretty but maybe they could help us... though I doubt it" Garrett said rubbing the back of his neck.
Varric shook his head saying "no their pretty bad Hawke. Those legends about them say they only exist to feed... well on anything living." Looking down once again and seeing the last Rock Wraith fall to the numerous Darkspawn overpowering it Garrett said "let's wait a bit then move on. The Darkspawn are clearing a path for us but they'll attack us all the same if we get too close... gotta keep our distance."
"Agreed" Fenris said nodded as he gripped his Fighting Greatsword. Garrett and the others simply sat perched on the boulder above the steep slope as the Darkspawn regrouped and moved back in the passage they'd apparently been pushed out of.
These Darkspawn came from somewhere inside that passage with the Rock Wraiths so there must be an entrance into the rest of Deep Roads somewhere inside Garrett thought as he waited with the others on the boulder.
Garrett and the others waited for several minutes before leaving the boulder and slowly and quietly stepping down the steep slope and gazing at lone passage down there amongst the corpse of Darkspawn and dead Rock Wraiths.
"There's none of the strange Red Lyrium... why is it only up there" Garrett said looking into the passage seeing it devoid of the Red Lyrium then looking back up the way they came where the Red Lyrium encased every wall. Fenris looked back at they way they came like Garrett and said "perhaps it was meant for Rock Wraiths."
Garrett shook his head 'no' saying "there were Corpses of Darkspawn and Rock Wraiths in that labyrinth so it doesn't stop the Rock Wraiths... either way at least here we don't have worry about it anymore." Anders raised his hand saying "I don't sense any Magic Resistance so I don't think will see anymore of the Red Lyrium... that's relief."
"Still don't understand this place. Blondie are there any Darkspawn left to clear a path for us" Varric asked looking curious. Garrett and the others looked at Anders as he rubbed his chin then raised his hand saying "... some but not as much as before."
Garrett nodded and took point his Longsword and Shield at the ready with the others following closely behind him. They made sure not to go too fast since they'd didn't want to get into any unnecessary fights though it was strange seeing the Corpses of Darkspawn and Rock Wraiths as they moved along the cleared path.
The Darkspawn helping us without realizing it... this is so bizarre Garrett thought as he led the group onward in this passage amongst all these strange things filled with unanswered questions...
Day, Kirkwall
Hightown Estates
Bethany Hawke stood with her mother and uncle alongside Kane in front of the Amell Family Estate with Leandra holding the key and looking amazed. "After all these years... and we finally return to our proper home" Leandra Hawke said as smiled and hugged her daughter holding the key.
"Well hurry on already, I haven't seen the place since I lost it" Gamlen said lightheartedly. "I wish Garrett were here to see this; we spent so long trying to get the Estate back" Bethany said a little somber but glad all the same to have the Estate back. Leandra nodded saying "I know but it'll still be here when he gets back and we can greet him properly as Lord Hawke."
Bethany burst into laughter at that as Gamlen scoffed saying "he better not go around calling himself that like some other Nobles do." "Don't worry Gamlen my brother wouldn't do that" Bethany said.
Leandra turned to her daughter saying "come on then Lady Hawke let's see our new home." "Mom please don't call me thought" Bethany said slightly embarrassed as Leandra smiled and inserted the key into the lock and pushed the front door open.
It was like stepping into another world, another life, vastly different from what Bethany was used to in Lowtown. The Estate was big with two stories. Someone had come and clean the place up but the place still needed some touching up to make it home Bethany thought as she and her family stepped into the Amell Estate.
It feels like a dream. We'll being living here in the Amell... no Hawke Estate and be Nobles. I can be safe here in the higher class and I won't be a burden on my family anymoreBethany thought happily causing her to smile as she followed her mother and rubbed a hand on the polished stair case rail inside.
Looking around the their new home Bethany noticed how much coin it must have cost to build this place as a home, the polished stairs leading to the other floor, the three bedrooms up there, what appeared to be a private study off to the side, and door leading family vault.
I remember back when Garrett and I broke in here from Darktown. Almost everything was gone from the Vault. All our family's things... taken by the Slavers Bethany thought as looked around.
"Maker I didn't think so much we would be missing" Gamlen mumbled looking awkward as he looked around the estate. Bethany walked up to Kane and pat him on the head as she turned to her uncle saying "it's fine at least we have the Estate."
Leandra turned to her brother saying "it enough knowing the Estate's back in the family, everything else can come later. This place doesn't need fancy furniture or antiques... it's simply our home." Bethany nodded smiling honestly at that as Gamlen shifted awkwardly saying "I know I won't live here but... maybe I could visit sometime. For old time's sake Sis."
Leandra walked up to her little brother and put a hand on his shoulder despite being shorter than him and said "Gamlen I forgave you a long time ago. The only thing that hurt me was that you lied but no matter what you're still my brother."
Gamlen stood his mouth open for a moment before closing it and looking awkward as he said "I... thank you Sis. I know I've done some bad things but you deserve this place more than me." Leandra smiled and hugged her brother saying "you don't have to stay in Lowtown you know. You could live here with us I'm sure there's room this a big house."
Gamlen smiled as he broke off their hug saying "no I don't think I'm cut out for that life anymore. I'd just be happy with visits." Bethany looked at her mother and uncle thinking Gamlen's hasn't forgiven himself... but at least he's not bitter anymore I think mother withered all that away.
Leandra nodded saying "if that's what you want. Come by anytime." Gamlen nodded smiling slightly. "I'll leave you two to your new home then," Gamlen said as walked towards the exit with Bethany and Leandra waving him off.
Kane started to explore his new 'Territory' as Bethany laughed at that sight of him smelling everything he could reach. Leandra smiled as turned to her daughter saying "alright then Bethany let's unpack so we can settle in."
The Deep Roads
Path made clear unknowingly by the Darkspawn
Garrett Hawke examined the sight before them... more corpses of Darkspawn lying about the Dwarven built hallway they were following.
That clearing may not have been Dwarven built but it didn't need to be since it apparently was big enough to be a natural bridge between these outpost or whatever they were but the Darkspawn found a way in so we can find a way out Garrett had thought upon first entering the hallway.
"Looks like those Darkspawn aren't doing so well, it was good while it lasted" Varric said in a low voice looking at the Darkspawn Corpses. "They cleared the way for us this far. It couldn't last forever, from here on we'll have a fight on our hands" Garrett said seriously in a low voice as Fenris nodded and gripped his Fighting Greatsword.
"... They're not all gone I can still sense some of them" Anders said in a low voice following Garrett and the others as they tired to be as quiet as possible and moved on.
Magic is our best bet right now. From watching those Darkspawn it's clear it takes a lot of hits to take a Rock Wraith down the old fashioned way. Only way to make it quick is that glowing center where the heart should be but they guard it with everything they got Garrett thought seriously having studied the battle earlier. Just then they came upon intersection with two ways to go left or right.
Stepping quietly Garrett took a look down the left path and saw several Rock Wraiths barricading a broken wall with boulders. There's no Red Lyrium here... something made a hole in that wall. The Rock Wraiths are plugging it up... their might be other broken walls we could use to get it out but not that one. Too many Rock Wraiths and I don't want to fight them unless we have to Garrett thought from where he stood hidden in cover.
Garrett turned to the others and gestured to them the right path. Varric nodded and quietly took a quick look peering into the right path ahead then raised a hand giving a thumbs up all clear let's go.
Moving quietly Garrett rejoined the others and they proceeded to move down the right path stealthy with the Rock Wraiths barricading the left path none the wiser. Garrett and the others moved stealthy through the right path noticing as they went that the Rock Wraiths had taken down several Darkspawn down this path.
Reaching the end of the right path stood a door not like the one that sealed them here but just a simple Dwarven built door. Turning around to look at the others Garrett saw them gazing at the door as well.
"We don't have much choice" Garrett said in a low voice not wanting to attract the Rock Wraiths as Varric shifted lightly and glanced back the way they came to make sure they weren't followed. "Agreed, the left path was filled Rock Wraiths. It's the only option left to us Hawke" Fenris said gripping his Fighting Greatsword.
Garrett turned to Anders saying "this looks like a normal door but I don't want any more surprises. Think you check it out?" "On it Hawke" Anders said as he nodded and took a step towards the door raising his right hand.
"The door's just a door... but there's Darkspawn on the others side" Anders said looking back at the others. Just then they heard heavy thudding footsteps from back the way they came and headed down towards this path.
Rock Wraiths... their coming this way Garrett thought as he exchanged looks with Anders, Fenris, and Varric. We know the Darkspawn, we've fought them before and we know we can take them they all thought deciding to face the enemy they knew and not the one they didn't know.
Garrett slowly and quietly opened the door walking through it and gesturing for the others to follow him. The door led to a large clearing with Dwarven built pillars as a sort of guide leading to naturally formed bridge towards more Dwarven ruins.
But that's not what caught their attention it was the Darkspawn. There in the middle of the clearing was the last few survivors of the group of Darkspawn fighting Rock Wraiths... as Shades fought alongside the Rock Wraiths.
The odd thing was the Darkspawn was using tactics Garrett and never seen them use before... the Darkspawn were distracting the Rock Wraiths and Shades from barricading a hole in the wall.
The Darkspawn had broken a hole in one of the walls of the clearing and were getting reinforcements from the others side... or at least trying to as some of the Rock Wraiths used the cover from the Shades to stop the reinforcements and plug the hole with boulders.
Garrett and the others watched as a Darkspawn was pushed back through the hole by Rock Wraiths and held back as they proceeded to barricaded the opening with boulders. They could still hear the Darkspawn on the other side calling out as it tired to 'dig' it's way into the clearing with others clearly behind it.
Just then a Rock Wraith that had pummeled a Darkspawn to death spotted them and alerted it's brethren just as the last Darkspawn died at the hands of the Rock Wraiths and the Shades.
Garrett and the others already had their weapons out as the surviving Rock Wraiths and Shades headed towards them menacingly. We made it this far without a fight it was good while it lasted Garrett thought as he and Fenris moved forward, Anders cast Chain Lightning and Varric fired a special bolt.
Anders's Chain Lightning hit two Rock Wraiths wounded both of them but not killing them as Varric special bolt hit the floor between three Shades and detonated killing two and wounding the other. The glowing center where the heart should be Garrett thought as he rushed alongside Fenris dodging a rock 'hand' and stabbed a Rock Wraith in it's 'heart' causing it to collapse into a pile of rubble.
Fenris tired to slash a Rock Wraith in it's 'heart' but failed as the Rock Wraith blocked with it's rock 'hands'. It's harder for a Greatsword to be as accurate as my Longsword Garrett thought as he rushed to his friend's aid and slammed his Shield into the Rock Wraith's side.
The Rock Wraith was pushed back slightly giving Garrett the moment he nodded to aim and stab it where it's 'heart' was. "Get the Shades I've got this" Garrett called to Fenris beside him as the Rock Wraith he killed crumpled into a pile of rubble. "On it Hawke" Fenris said as he nodded and proceeded to rush towards the Shades.
Garrett raised his Shield staying on the defensive as three Rock Wraiths headed for him as Fenris decapitated a Shade with a heavy slash of his Fighting Greatsword. Garrett blocked with his Shield just as Anders took careful aim and fired a Spirit Bolt towards the Rock Wraith trying to flank Garrett.
The Spirit Bolt tore through the air and hit the glowing center of the Rock Wraith as it tired to flank Garrett causing it die and collapse into a pile of rubble. Thanks Anders Garrett thought as he blocked with his Shield and moving quickly stabbed a Rock Wraith in it's 'heart'.
The last Rock Wraith fighting Garrett swing heavily with it's 'hand' trying to bat Garrett away but he ducked and manged to dodge just as Varric sniped it in it's 'heart'.
"Hawke!" Fenris shouted as he suddenly appeared beside him and raised his Fighting Greatsword blocking a Rock Wraith slamming a 'fist' towards Garrett's head.
Taking the opportunity Garrett aimed and stabbed his Longsword into the Rock Wraith's 'heart' killing it and leaving behind a pile of rubble. "Thanks" Garrett said quickly as he and Fenris stood beside each other holding their ground as a Rock Wraith that was barricading the hole stepped away and joined two more of it's kind as they headed for them.
Varric fired arrow after arrow as Anders shot Lightning after lightning taking down the last Shades leaving only the three Rock Wraiths heading towards them and the four that were still barricading the hole in the wall. "Hawke we got trouble!" Varric called as they suddenly heard the door from which they had come slam open...
Taking a hurried glance behind them Garrett watched in horror as Rock Wraith reinforcements started pouring in... a lot of them. Garrett and Fenris backed up as Anders and Varric stepped forward and together the four of them stood 'back to back' as the Rock Wraiths closed in with the sound of Darkspawn still trying to brake through the barricade.
Suddenly one of Rock Wraiths barricading the hole from the Darkspawn stepped back as all the Rock Wraiths stopped their advance just as they finished their barricaded.
What's going on? They stopped fighting Garrett thought as he stood with his friends... the frustrated hisses and cries of the Darkspawn trying in vain to brake in becoming the only sound to be heard.
The Rock Wraith that had stepped away after finishing the barricade moved to stand several feet away from the group and faced Garrett looking... calm.
Garrett shifted, his Longsword and Shield raised ready for anything as Fenris, Anders, and Varric did the same.
The Rock Wraith facing Garrett suddenly spoke in harsh deep voice saying "enough! You have proven your mettle. I would not see more of my food destroyed without heed."
Garrett narrowed his eyes saying "you can talk, none of the others did and they always attacked." "They will not assault you further further... not without my permission" the Rock Wraith facing Garrett said after shifting as if to get a better 'look' at them.
"The legends never said they could talk" Varric said from behind Garrett as the Dwarf eyed all the Rock Wraiths warily. Anders standing directly behind Garrett turned his head warily saying "... that's not a Rock Wraith it's a Demon... a Demon possessing a Rock Wraith."
Fenris shifted saying "Demons can possess Rocks... foul Magic." Demons possessing Rock Wraiths... what else is down here Garrett thought warily as he raised an eyebrow saying "how can you possess this things... their rocks."
"They hunger... that is enough. The profane have lingered in these Ruins for Ages beyond memory, feeding on the Magic Stone until the need is all they know" the Demon possessed Rock Wraith said simply.
Garrett glanced around the clearing and noticing something he hadn't seen before... Lyrium Crystal like the ones where they had found Sandal at were embedded in the ground. But these were different as if they'd been chipped and cut until only the 'roots' remained still growing through the ground and trying to spread.
The Lyrium's still trying to grow after all time... didn't see it before since it's barely visible in the ground Garrett thought as he said "... the Lyrium sustains the Rock Wraiths."
"I am not as they are... I am a 'visitor' come to feast." the Demon possessed Rock Wraith said as if... happy. "I came hearing their hunger and the Relic called to me but not matter what form used it was protected from my grasp by Old Magic and so I lingered to feed on what I could" the Demon possessed Rock Wraith said.
That Idol. It said that no matter what form used it couldn't get it... the Red Lyrium resist Magic. It was put there to stop Demons from getting it even if they possessed a body... that room was keeping it safe until someone came for it Garrett thought in realization his eyes widening slightly.
Anders shifted warily as he gripped his staff turning to whisper to Garrett "... Hawke those Darkspawn aren't giving up they're still trying to break in." The Demon possessed Rock Wraith turned to the barricade and gestured with it's 'hand' casing two Rock Wraiths behind Garrett and the others to step forward.
Garrett, Fenris, Anders, and Varric shifted warily as the two Rock Wraith walked around them and to the barricade seemingly to have been commanded to help.
Turning back to face Garrett the Demon possessed Rock Wraith said "I would not see my feast end, I sense your desire you wish to leave this place and I have no quarrel with you... only the 'Dark Ones'. I can aid you."
Dark Ones... does it mean the Darkspawn? Garrett thought as Anders spoke up saying "don't do it Hawke trust me Demons will trip you up every time." "Eh Blondie what are our options? This could be a tough fight and it's willing to help us... though it's a Demon" Varric said still holding his Crossbow and Fenris stood ready for anything.
"You know the way out?" Garrett asked lowering his Weapons slightly but still a bit on edge.
"Yes, I can get you out of these Ruins and show you the path back to the surface... without it you will wander these Tunnels with the Dark Ones after you every step of the way" the Demon possessed Rock Wraith said gesturing to the barricade.
"I don't understand? Why do the Darkspawn attack this place... what do they want?" Garrett asked glancing at Anders then back the Demon possessed Rock Wraith.
The 'air' of the room seemed to change growing colder as the Demon possessed Rock Wraith snarled "the Dark Ones are vile creatures! Corrupting all they touch! They know no hunger but their 'foul song'! To feed on them is bitter and burns us! They despise us here and seek our end! A Plague upon all of us... your kind and mine."
Okay so it really hates the Darkspawn Garrett thought as Anders whispered to him "the Darkspawn don't like sharing their territory... even these Ruins." Garrett glanced at the barricade of boulders holding back Darkspawn thinking can't believe I'm doing this but we're outnumbered.
Lowering his Weapons slowly and gesturing for the others to do the same Garrett reluctantly said "... you said you'd let us go and show us the path back to the surface." "Yes, we will allow you three to leave" the Demon possessed Rock Wraith said calmly.
Garrett narrowed his eyes as got his Weapons ready and coldly asked "what do you mean the 'three' of us?" The Demon possessed Wraith Rock switched it's gaze from Garrett and strangely to what was directly behind him... Anders.
"A Dark One walks among you. We will 'deal' with it then you may go" the Demon possessed Rock Wraith nearly snarled. "My friend isn't a Darkspawn. You're mistaken" Garrett answered sternly as Anders shifted warily gripping his Staff.
The Demon possessed Rock Wraith grunted saying "I feel the Plague dwelling within... he carries their corruption. We will kill him as we did the rest his kind."
Fenris looked at Anders tilting his head at the ex-Warden as Varric just blinked confused but Garrett raised his Shield saying "no you're not killing my friend." "Hawke more Darkspawn are coming... their still trying to break in" Anders whispering to him as the ex-Warden looked around the clearing counting the Rock Wraiths knowing this looked bad.
"Most unwise. Very well then die with your friend he will join the Corpses of the Dark Ones and we will feed on your Corpses." the Demon possessed Rock Wraith said coldly before raising it's 'fist' and gesturing to all of it's brethren.
"Shit this bad" Varric said as Fenris raised his Fighting Greatsword. Thinking quickly and turning to Varric and Anders, Garrett spoke up. Can't believe we're doing this Garrett thought as he said "Varric, Anders... destroy the barricade. Hurry."
The Rock Wraiths drew closer as the group looked at Garrett surprised as Anders said "Hawke... what! You'd let-" but Garrett interrupted saying "it's our only chance use everything you got, both of you."
Anders turned with Garrett covering him and using a lot of Magic fired a burst of raw magic as Varric turned covered by Fenris and fired a special bolt. Anders's burst of raw Magic slammed into the barricade of boulders destroying most of it just as Varric's special bolt hit what was left and exploded... clearing the barricade leaving enough room of something to get in.
"What have you done! The Dark Ones have broken in!" the demon possessed Rock Wraith shouted as Garrett turned to his friends saying "we need to move fast."
Almost instantly a Darkspawn jumped into the clearing followed by another and another... the Darkspawn began flooding in and rushing towards the Rock Wraiths. "Stay together" Garrett said sternly as he and friends started moving with the Darkspawn flooded into the clearing and rushing the Rock Wraiths.
Garrett and the others started towards the far side of the clearing avoiding the clash of monsters. Two Rock Wraiths tired to start towards Garrett and the others only for the Darkspawn to tackle them.
This is insane! How many Darkspawn were trying to brake that barricade Garrett thought as he and the group kept moving trying to stay out of the fight as Darkspawn after Darkspawn flooded in with the Rock Wraiths trying to stop them. "We need the Darkspawn to distract the Rock Wraiths... don't let them barricade the hole again" Garrett said to the group just a Rock Wraith charged at them.
"Hawke this crazy!" Varric said holding his Crossbow as Fenris and Garrett met the Rock Wraith head on and managed to take it down together. "Hawke's right just do it" Anders said as he aimed and fired a Spirit Bolt at the 'heart' of a Rock Wraith trying to stop the flood of Darkspawn entering the clearing.
Just need enough Darkspawn to keep the Rock Wraiths busy then we can escape Garrett thought hurriedly as he and Fenris protected Varric and Anders allowing them to snipe any Rock Wraiths trying to barricade the hole again. Within half a minute the clearing was utter chaos with several Darkspawn having bullied their way into the clearing.
"It's enough let's go" Garrett said as he stabbed a Rock Wraith in it's heart as Fenris heavily slashed a Darkspawn that broken off from the main group and chased them.
Moving quickly Garrett and the others started running not bothering to stand and fight in this insane battle between them, the Rock Wraith and the Darkspawn.
Garrett raised his Shield blocking a slash from a random Darkspawn allowing Fenris to behead it as Varric sniped a Rock Wraith and Anders blasted one away with a burst of Magic.
A blast of Flame Magic slammed into a Rock Wraith ahead of Garrett causing him to stumble slightly since the blast came from in front of them meaning it wasn't Anders. Looking in front of him Garrett saw... a Darkspawn Emissary.
The Darkspawn equivalent of a Mage was busy fired spells at the Rock Wraith before it spotted them and hissed at them before changing it's aim to attack Garrett and the others. Just then an arrow flew through the air embedding itself in the Darkspawn Emissary's eye killing it instantly.
"Thanks Varric" Garrett called as he and the others didn't even slow down and keep running. That's when the Demon possessed Rock Wraith spotted Garrett and charged at him shouting "You! You have ended our feast! You will suffer for this!"
"I've got this don't stop" Garrett shouted as he rushed too meet the Demon possessed Rock Wraith. "This should help" Anders said as his eyes glowed blue and putting a lot of Magic into it fired a Spirit Bolt. Anders's Spirit Bolt soared through the air and hit the Demon possessed Rock Wraith stunning it giving Garrett an opening.
Using the Talents he'd learned from Xenon's Tome Garrett infused the Spirit Force famously used by the Templars into his Longsword as he stabbed the Demon possessed Rock Wraith in it's 'heart'.
The Demon possessed Rock Wraith hissed in agony as it died and crumpled into a pile of rubble. Garrett suddenly felt someone grab him by his right shoulder and pull him along as he noticed the chaos that was now the clearing.
Garrett ran alongside Fenris as Anders took point using a lot of Magic with Justice lending a hand to blast Rock Wraiths and Darkspawn aside clearing a path for them as they made it across the naturally formed bridge and into the Dwarven Ruins on the other side. Once inside the Dwarven Ruins and seeing a flight of stairs Garrett and the others ran taking it two steps at a time to get away from the chaos.
Taking a quick look behind them Garrett saw the horrible scene they'd left... the Rock Wraiths stuck fighting the in-pouring Darkspawn... and being overwhelmed. Maker... in the large groups the Darkspawn just... overwhelm everything... just like Ostagar. Evil vs Evil Garrett thought darkly knowing the Rock Wraiths were losing.
Once up the stairs with the others Garrett and the group saw a door but none of the bothered to question it and just burst through it to get away. Once again not taking the time to question anything Garrett and the others just followed hallway after hallway before finally stopping to rest after nearly twenty minutes.
Panting with the others Garrett leaned on a wall, Fenris stood with his hands on his knees, Varric sat on the floor, and Anders let out a heavy breath taking a seat near a wall.
Never seen Anders this tired before and he's the most powerful Mage I've ever met besides maybe father or Flemeth Garrett thought after a few moments of resting against the wall.
Varric stood up saying "man Hawke, the Darkspawn and Rock Wraith... and I thought we'd seen it all." Garrett chuckled slightly before turning to Anders saying "you alright? Never seen you this tired out before."
Anders slowly got to his feet saying "fine, used a lot Magic. Hehe just haven't been this tired since... well since the Wardens."
Fenris suddenly moved to stand next to Garrett saying "that Abomination said you carried the corruption... why?" Garrett raised an eyebrow wondering the same thing but not liking the tone Fenris had asked the question in. Anders looked at Garrett then at Fenris then at Varric each in turn before getting a serious look on his face and slowly saying "... I can't talk about it."
Fenris tilted his head gripping his Fighting Greatsword warily saying "why not?" Anders just looked at Fenris saying "I just can't... leave it alone." Fenris wanted to continue but Garrett stopped him putting a hand on his friend's shoulder saying "not now Fenris we have more important things to worry about."
"Hawke's right come on guys we should be close to an exit" Varric said wiping a small amount of sweet from his forehead. Fenris nodded somewhat reluctantly but kept a wary look at Anders.
After their brief four minute rest Garrett and the group moved on finding a door leading into a large vault of some kind... with a flight of stairs leading up, an exit! Garrett breathed a sigh of relief saying "finally an exit back up."
"Look at all of this!" Varric said suddenly said speaking up and pointing to a bunch of chest and other artifacts laying against a corner of the vault. "You're still thinking about that Varric... I'm just happy with staying alive" Garrett said raising an eyebrow. Varric shrugged saying "don't get me wrong I still want to find that son of a bitch Bartand and get payback but it would help to get some profit out of all the crap we've been through."
"That's Varric always finding the bright side of things" Anders said chuckling slightly as Fenris just eyed up the 'treasure' knowing they couldn't take it all. Garrett stepped towards the treasure and stood beside Varric saying "we can't take everything... pick out the best of the lot and let's move on."
The group examined the treasure picking the best pieces when suddenly Varric eagerly picked up old carving of some kind saying "we're in luck right here. This carving's made of Icrian Ore... this source has been lost to Dwarfs ever since the third Blight."
Garrett raised an eyebrow saying "I thought you didn't know Dwarven history to well." Varric shrugged saying "I read up on a few things before we launched." Garrett nodded before saying "alright we can't carry any more let's move on." Once taking all they could Garrett took point and led the group up the stairs finally leaving these strange Ruins.
Three Days Later
The Deep Roads
"We're really low on water and those Mushrooms Blondie found for us taste horrible" Varric said as he walked beside Garrett and the others through the tunnel. We've been wondering around for three days... we need to find a way to the surface... Anders says we're close but don't know how close Garrett thought warily as he walked.
"If we don't find a way back to the surface soon the Darkspawn will eventually finish us, we've been lucky so far only meeting small groups" Anders said gripping his staff. Fenris shifted not saying a work but looking frustrated like the others all the same.
Just then Garrett noticed something up ahead near a side passage... a kind of plant. It was blue and not too big but growing none the less in the Deep Roads. It can't be... Xenon's words... worth a shot Garrett thought as he slowly walked to the side passage and knelt down plucking the odd blue plant out of the ground. "Hawke what are you doing?" Fenris asked as Varric and Anders looked at him curiously.
"Trying something out" Garrett answered as he examined the roots of the odd plant. "Hawke it doesn't look good but I think it's edible, either way we still have some mushrooms left" Anders said as Varric just shrugged saying "I'm up for eating something else those mushrooms taste horrible."
Garrett tore a small part of the root out and tasted it... it's sweet... very sweet he thought. Garrett walked a bit further into the side tunnel seeing another odd blue plant.. and another and another... a trail of sorts. Gumgum root is surprisingly sweet and found not too far underneath the surface Garrett thought remembering what Xenon had told him.
"Guys let's follow these plants a... eh a 'friend' told me this plants grow near the surface" Garrett called as he took point following the trail of the odd blue plants. Anders, Varric, and Fenris followed willing to try anything for a way back to the surface.
Nearly an hour later the trail of odd blue plants led the group to an upward slope... where Sunlight was visible. "The Surface finally!" Varric called as the group hurried and made it up the slope and finally back to the surface.
Garrett laughed as he felt the Sunlight on his face after more than two weeks... stung a bit but he'd didn't care. Fenris clapped Garrett on his arm saying "finally." Anders let out of a sigh of relief stretching saying "I hate the blighted Deep Roads glad to be back!"
After taking a moment just to enjoy the Sunlight and breathe fresh clean air Garrett looked around noticing where they were. "This is Sundermount... who'd have thought there'd be a passage to the Deep Roads here" Garrett said thinking aloud as the others took notice of the familiar surroundings.
"Hello there! Merrill's friends right?" an accented voice suddenly called out slightly above from where Garrett, Anders, Fenris, and Varric stood.
Turning around Garrett saw a Dalish Hunter perched on a ridge above them his Bow and Arrow held firmly. He was just about the only friendly person to Merrill when she left her Clan. What was his name again? … Fenarel that was the name Garrett thought remembering first meeting the Dalish Elves here.
Fenarel looked them up and down saying "what happened to you? You look awful and... why do you carry trinkets?" Anders chuckled muttering "you have no idea." "It's a long story... you think you could help us. We could use a bath and a place to rest for a bit" Garrett said dryly just glad to be on the surface. Fenarel straightened saying "sure I'll take you back to our camp, just let me collect the boar I shot; was hunting when I stumbled upon you."
Dalish Camp
Garrett Hawke sat on a wooden bench alongside the others near a small camp fire having taken a fresh bath, cleaned his undershirt, and eating some strange but tasty Dalish food. Fenarel had taken them back here along with the Boar he'd killed and been kind enough to share some food with them all.
"I've never been so happy to clean boots before" Anders said lightly sitting barefoot as Varric chuckled having finished cleaning before all of them being the smallest. "... this is annoying" Fenris muttered as the Elf cleaned his Gauntlets with a lot of Dalish Elves staring at him children, adults, men, and women.
Once again the Dalish seemed fascinated by his Markings and kept staring at them because of it's similarity to what Merrill had called 'blood writing'. "Man was it really that bad?" Feynriel, the half blooded Elven Apostate that Garrett had taken to the Dalish, asked curiously as he sat beside them.
"Pretty bad Feynriel, betrayed, low on supplies, Darkspawn, and living Rocks" Garrett said standing up and redoing his Reinforced Leather Armor. "Anyway how you've been, haven't really seen you since we sent you here?" Garrett asked looking at Feynriel and seeing how living with the Dalish had changed him.
Feynriel looked fitter than before and wore the strange clothing that the Dalish seemed to make themselves Garrett noticed as the lad said "pretty good. I like it here." "But?" Garrett said seeing that look on Feynriel face as Fenris and Varric stood up.
"At first the Dalish treated me a bit cold but I've managed to make friends here and become more a part of them now... Keeper Marethari teaches me everyday" Feynriel said honestly. "Glad to hear it" Garrett said clapping Feynriel on his shoulder as Anders stood up and picked up his Staff.
"Any message you want me to pass to your mom?" Garrett asked seeing everyone was ready to go. "Tempting but I send letters so it's okay, it's was good seeing you again" Feynriel said as Garrett and the others grabbed the rest of their gear along with the treasure ready to leave. "See you around Hawke, sorry that Keep Marethari couldn't see you off but she's busy" Feynriel said waving them off.
Kirkwall
Lowtown Marketplace
It was nightfall by the time Garrett and the others made it back to Kirkwall. "Home sweet home. Bartand must have made it back here before we did so that means he's gone to Ostwick to start selling. Tonight I rest, tomorrow I start looking for that bastard. Either way the treasure we found outstrips that stupid Idol we're going to be rich" Varric said stretching.
Turning to face the group Varric said "I'll store the treasure in the safe at my private suite for now." "Thanks Varric" Garrett said honestly as Anders spoke up saying "appreciate Varric, think I'll head to my Clinic I've been gone awhile."
"I could use a drink, Hawke" Fenris said in goodbye as headed towards the Hanged Man. "I'll see you two tomorrow then about Bartand and where we can sell the treasure" Garrett said to Anders and Varric not wanting to be rude but wanting to see his family again.
Anders and Varric waved him off as Garrett left them and headed for Gamlen's House.
On his way towards Gamlen's house someone called his name and began walking towards him. Turning around Garrett saw Aveline smiling as she stopped to stand in front of him saying "Hawke! I didn't know the Expedition made it back."
Garrett smiled saying "the Expedition made it back before now... it's long story but I had to find my own way back." Aveline got a serious look on her face as the City Guard said "what happened did Bartand leave you behind!" Garrett nodded saying "something like that but he's probably in Ostwick so there's nothing we can do about it now."
Aveline crossed her arms saying "he ever comes back to Kirkwall I'll be sure to pay him a visit." Garrett smirked at that then asked "what are you doing here Aveline? I thought you usually did the Hightown shifts." Aveline nodded saying "usually but I'm working a case and trying to follow some leads here... not doing so well at the moment but have to try."
"If anyone can get it it's you Aveline" Garrett said as he patted his friend on her shoulder. "Anyway sorry Aveline but I'm want to see my family it's been awhile" Garrett said as he waved and started back towards Gamlen's house.
Aveline stopped him saying "wait Garrett their not in Lowtown anymore." Garrett turned around to face Aveline hardly believing his ears as he eagerly said "they got the estate back already?"
Aveline nodded saying "yeah a few days ago. You know the place... go your Bethany and Leandra will be glad to see you." "Thanks Aveline" Garrett said clapping his friend on the arm and heading towards Hightown eager to see his family again.
Hightown
Amell Estate
Garrett Hawke made it to the Amell estate running eager to see everyone again when he noticed something was wrong. A crowd was gathered nearby watching the estate from a distance... what's going on Garrett thought warily as walked to the front door and opened it surprised to find it unlocked.
No Garrett thought dismayed at the sight before him... there in his family's estate stood Leandra, Gamlen, Bethany, Juliana, and Kane... surrounded by about nearly a dozen armed Templars.
"What going on?" Garrett asked sternly as he got ready for a fight. "Garrett you're back. I'm glad I got to see you again" Bethany said sadly as she looked at him her eyes wide as if ready to cry.
Two of the armed Templars made to push Garrett out of the estate but were stopped by a Templars saying "stop he's family." Turning to look at that Templar Garrett realized it was Sir Cullen and standing next to him looking somber was Sir Thrask.
"Hello again Hawke... I had not thought we'd meet again like this" Sir Thrask said looking truly sorry as he gazed at Garrett. Leandra was openly weeping as she held Bethany's hand fiercely just as Sir Cullen turned to Garrett saying "We got a tip about an Apostate and it was right. Mistress Bethany is being taken to the Circle of Magi."
Garrett just felt numb as the words left Sir Cullen's mouth with the other Templars watching ready to step in if needed.
I've studied Templar Tactics and learned their skills I'll take them all down Garrett thought getting over his numbness with Kane growling in the background. Stepped forward filled with rage and reaching for his Longsword Garrett coldly said "over my dead body."
Sir Cullen and Sir Thrask reached for the Weapons just as the other ten Templars did the same when suddenly Bethany spoke up saying "it's done... don't make it worse."
Garrett stopped and turned to look at his little sister seeing her break off from her mother's grasp to stand in front of him. "It just happened brother... we were showing Juliana the estate when they came... all twelve of them. Please don't drag yourself down with me" Bethany said on the verge of tears as she placed a hand on Garrett's arm.
Sir Cullen spoke up saying "consider yourself fortunate, Bethany's cooperation and your prior assistance allows us to spare you the punishment for harboring a dangerous Mage... this once."
Garrett looked at Sir Cullen with hatred noticing that Gamlen had picked up a kitchen knife and held it tightly a clear message... I'm ready to help. Garrett almost reached for his Longsword but felt Bethany grip his arm and stopped instead turning to look at her as she somberly said "don't."
Juliana just looked stunned at the whole thing not saying a word as Leandra walked to her children and grabbed Bethany in a fierce hug somberly saying "oh Bethany! What will happen to you?" Bethany sadly hugged her mother saying "I'll be okay mother..."
"It's getting late we should escort the prisoner to the Gallows soon" one of the armed Templars said causing Garrett's blood to boil. Sir Cullen gestured as he, Sir Thrask, and the other ten Templars got ready with one moving forward to gently push Bethany away from her family.
Tears trailed from Leandra's face as Bethany was pushed away, Gamlen looked away still numbly holding the kitchen knife, Kane howled loudly and Juliana just stood frozen.
Garrett held Bethany's sad gaze as she was pushed out the door and into Hightown escorted by the Templars. As the Templars were leaving with their commanders Sir Cullen and Sir Thrask one of them stopped and turned to Garrett saying "don't try anything foolish the Gallows is guarded and we know who you are and where you live."
The Templar moved on without saying another word. Garrett stood beside his his mother then rushed forward out of the estate after his sister and the dozen Templars.
Bethany turned at the sound of him approaching but more importantly Sir Thrask turned and blocked Garrett's path saying "what's done is done Hawke I-" But Garrett interrupted the man sternly saying "give me a moment."
Sir Thrask blinked about to refuse when suddenly Garrett grabbed the Templar by his shoulders and looked him straight in the eye saying "you owe me." Some of the other Templars made to grab Garrett but Sir Thrask stopped them with a raised hand as Garrett let him ago. Sir Thrask looked back at Garrett and nodded saying "one minute."
"Sir this is nonsense" of the Templars said to Sir Thrask only for Sir Thrask to say "one minute won't do harm, let them be." Sir Cullen crossed his arms and looked at Sir Thrask clearly unhappy about this but not interfering.
Sir Thrask moved to give the Hawke siblings some space as did the other Templars but all of them stayed close by not letting either of them out of their sight.
Garrett moved to stand in front of Bethany seeing the reflection of his sad blue eyes in his sister's eyes.. the same eyes as him. Reaching a hand up and placing it on the side of Bethany's face Garrett sadly said "I'm sorry... I should... should... have been here... should have protected you."
"There's nothing you could have done brother" Bethany said sadly still holding back tears as she put a hand on his shoulder.
"I'll find a way to help you I promise" Garrett said not caring that the Templars could hear him as Bethany smiled and a tear finally broke her vigil as she said "always looking out for me. Being the hero... but not this time."
Bethany stepped forward and embraced her brother sadly as Garrett hugged her back feeling empty inside with his eyes watering sightly. "Take care of mother" Bethany said as she ended their hug and Sir Cullen spoke up saying "we need to move on."
Bethany smiled sadly at Garrett as she was forced to leave with the Templars. Garrett held onto her hand for as long as he could but in the end he was forced to let go with the Templars escorting her towards the Gallows.
Thunder roared and it began to rain as the Templars moved on with Bethany as time seemed to slow. Garrett stood there frowning as the rain hit his face watching his little sister Bethany taken away, the sister who had always healed him when hurt, the sister who worked alongside him everyday for more than a year, the sister who survived the journey to Kirkwall with him, the sister he'd always looked out for.
Images flashed through Garrett's mind, Bethany trying Ale for the first time, refusing to play any more games of chess with him, celebrating her birthday, her using her Magic to warm up his soup for him, her as a child being scared of her own Magic and he replacing father as the one to comfort her, her embracing him after returning to Lothering, and her tagging along with him and Carver during their childhood adventures.
Then it was over with the Templars and Bethany out of sight and long gone, Garrett hung his head walking back to the estate in the rain and feeling like a failure.
Once back inside Garrett found his mother sobbing on the floor with Gamlen comforting her and Juliana watching through the door still looking shocked. Juliana suddenly spoke up sounding fearful as she said "Bethany... was an Apostate... all this time... she was a-" Only for Garrett to reach over and grab her by the shoulders.
"Yes Bethany was a Mage! She was your friend... my sister" Garrett said breathing heavily and barely containing his anger as he let Juliana go. Juliana stared at Garrett not knowing what to say.
Breaking the silence Garrett looked away from her saying "get out." Juliana shifted saying "Garret-" only for Garrett, still looking away, to interrupt coldly saying "get out." Juliana awkwardly nodded and left the estate frowning heavily.
Garrett knelt down next to his sobbing mother as Gamlen hold her with Kane whimpering behind them. "Oh Garrett! She's gone. She's gone" Leandra sobbed as Garrett hugged her warmly.
Holding his mother close Garrett somberly said "don't worry mom I'll fix this... I'll find a way." Leandra just held Garrett tighter as Gamlen sadly hung his head low. Garrett stood up gently hauling his mother up saying "just leave it to me alright."
Leandra nodded still sobbing as Garrett turned to Gamlen saying "I need to see someone. Look after her." Gamlen gaped saying "where are you going?" "To see a friend who can help" Garrett answered as he got his mother to take a seat on the breakfast table.
Gamlen gave him look saying "you're more like your father than I thought... go." Garrett nodded his thanks and moved on allowing Gamlen to look after his mother. Kane ambled up to him looking sad and wanting to join Garrett as he made to leave the estate.
Garrett pat Kane as his head saying "hey boy I need you to stay with mother okay, look out for her." Kane barked and moved to sit next to Leandra and Gamlen as if on guard duty. Getting a determined look on his face Garrett left the estate and closed the door behind him.
Darktown
Anders's Clinic
Anders slowly looked at the vain underneath his right hand then looked back at Garrett shaking his head saying "Hawke... Garrett, no trust me."
"What do you mean no! You were a Warden and were able to leave the Circle. You could talk to them. Get them to recruit Bethany so she'd be free of the Templars" Garrett said narrowing his eyes.
"Look I know how you feel trust me but-" Anders began only for Garrett to interrupt saying "but what? Come on Anders you're the only one who can help me." Anders somberly looked away saying "Garrett... just no. You don't want Bethany becoming a Warden."
Slamming a hand down on the table Garrett said "why!" "Do you love your sister?" Anders asked seriously causing Garrett to stand up in frustration saying "of course she's my little sister!"
Anders stood up saying "then you don't want her as a Warden! You don't want that life for her!" "What! A life away from the Circle!" Garrett said getting angry at Anders's refusal to help.
"It's not that simple Hawke!" Anders said moving to stand in front of him. "Hawke! I... I'm dying damn it!" Anders said somberly looking Garrett straight in the eyes.
Garrett blinked genuinely surprised at that as Anders breathed heavily and continued "I got thirty years before I'm gone... all Wardens do."
"What?" Garrett said frowning at that. "Two out of every three recruits die before even becoming Wardens... it's a hard life and you don't want that for her trust me" Anders said breathing heavily as if getting something off his chest.
"We don't like thinking about it but all Wardens are dying... and if you're Warden you either die coughing up blood on a sick bed or in a dark tunnel miles underneath the surface surrounded by Darkspawn." Anders said panting as Garrett looked at him unsure of what to say
"A hard and violent end to a hard and violent life" Anders finished getting a dark look on his face.
"There has to be something... you've gotten away from the Circle before" Garrett said seeing Anders's point. Anders looked at Garrett unblinking then said "you want to break her out of the Circle... it won't be easy. You'll have to leave Kirkwall and before you go you'll have to destroy her phylactery."
"I'll find a way" Garrett said firmly. Anders nodded saying "look I'll help you but we need to careful. The Templars know you and where you live Hawke." "I have to try" Garrett said honestly as Anders nodded. "Look this is going to take careful planning... take some time to clear your head if we do this we have to do it right" Anders said gripping Garrett's shoulder.
Garrett slowly nodded saying "... yeah I'm not thinking clearly. Too angry" "Thanks Anders" Garrett said leaving Anders's Clinic and heading back home to clear his head.
Have to keep a clear head... can't mess up. I need to careful this won't be easy. Father and Anders did it so it's not impossible Garrett thought as he walked through Darktown. That's when Garrett noticed something odd... no seemed to be milling about the area.
It's pretty late and this is Darktown but it's still odd Garrett thought as he walked ready in case something happened. Just then Garrett heard footsteps behind him and turned around ready to unsheathe his Longsword if need.
There standing behind him and having apparently followed Garrett was a man wearing slightly ragged clothing with a matching hood that lower class citizens in Kirkwall were known for wearing...
"Garrett Hawke" the man said as he raised a hand and lowered his ragged hood revealing the man's face... and a ragged scar running across his lips and past his cheeks. Garrett stood across from this strange man and looked at man's scar realizing something... he'd seen this man before.
The strange man took a step forward saying "we've met before."
"I remember you... is this revenge or something" Garrett asked warily as he got ready to unsheathe his Longsword.
The strange man rubbed a hand lightly across his face tracing the scar across his lips and past his cheeks before saying "... no" Garrett narrowed his eyes not trusting this as the strange man took another step forward saying four words that surprised him.
"I can help you..."
Bethany's part still isn't done yet don't worry I promise
As for the long parts with the Deep Roads I wanted to focus on that since I felt it was underwhelming in-game
I always pictured the Deep Roads as terrifying for normal people and highly dangerous for everyone else(even Wardens)
With Darkspawn and other creatures not being the only threat but starvation and becoming lost being a real danger
A danger you can't just kill or fight with brute force.
The whole Darkspawn vs Rock Wraith thing was just an a fun idea I came up with since those Ruins are in their territory
Plus I think it odd that no Darkspawn were there in-game because they dominate the Deep Roads
That and the fact that the Darkspawn heavily outnumber the Rock Wraiths and Demons
The Darkspawn are the top of the food chain in the Deep Roads due to their numbers and corruption