Hello again, everyone! Hey, I actually got this one out pretty fast, considering. Well, this is one of my favorite chapters so far, despite its length, so I hope you all enjoy!
Act VI: The Imperial Highway
They had set a decent pace after fleeing Highever; Duncan estimated that it would be roughly two more days of walking before they reached the Imperial Highway at Lothering, the intersection of the southern routes, and another two or three days to get from Lothering to Ostagar. Rose, meanwhile, had become more withdrawn and morose. Her dog, a pure-blood Mabari, was constantly whining as he worried about his master. Revan, too, had started to worry about her after the few days of traveling with the girl. Duncan had tried to help by telling them the tales of his youth, but Rose had shown only a margin of interest.
That night, after hunting for rabbits with her pitiful magic, Revan returned to camp to find Rose staring into the fire with tears streaming down her face. The young girl tried to wipe them away at her approach, perhaps to look strong, but it was too late. Revan set the rabbits down on a log and took a seat next to Rose, wearing an expression of friendly concern. She took Rose's hand and squeezed it reassuringly as she silently told her that everything was going to be okay.
"It's not your fault, you know," Revan said after a minute of silence.
"I know," Rose whispered quietly, as if trying to choke back tears.
"No, look at me," Revan turned Rose to look her in the face. Revan grasped her shoulders. "It is not your fault. I know you think it is, but this is not your fault."
Eyes red, mouth upturned in a grimace of pain as she bit back the hot tears of grief, Rose tried to nod in understanding, but the tears began to flow unbidden. Rose flung her arms around the Jedi, sobbing heavily into her shoulder. Revan held her comfortingly, soothing her. Revan hadn't known her parents, but she did know grief. After a minute, Revan began singing a tune softly, first to herself, but then to Rose. Her mouth started forming Dalish words, and soon she was singing the Dalish song to the honored dead, the same ballad the clan had sung at Lyna's wake. Rose's sobs grew weaker and farther between, and soon she had stopped sobbing altogether. She took in a few ragged, shaky breaths as she recovered. Finally, she pulled away.
"Sorry," Rose apologized as she wiped the tears away from her eyes.
"Don't apologize," Revan told her, standing up. "That is what friends are for, yes?"
"Friends." Rose repeated the word as if she had never used it before.
"Yes, friends. At least, that was what I was assuming we were," Revan smiled sadly at the girl as she walked to get the rabbits.
Rose smiled sadly back. "Yeah, I think we are friends. I've just…I've never actually had a friend before besides Fuzzywuggins," she patted the Mabari lying at her feet affectionately.
Revan turned back around, studiously ignoring the comment about the ferocious war hound. "You've never had friends before?"
"No," Rose shook her head and wiped her eyes again. "As the Teyrn's daughter, the only friends I was allowed to have were nobles, and I never really liked any of them."
"Not even Ser Gilmore?" Revan asked.
"He was okay," Rose paused. "No, that's not right. Ser Gilmore was a good, kind boy, but he never understood me, and I him. We were never that close."
Revan shot her a smile again, but this smile was brighter.
The next few days were spent in amiable chatter. Revan began pontificating to both Rose and Duncan about life in the Jedi Order, but she left out the key bits, such as the fact that the Jedi temple on Coruscant was a few thousand light-years away from Thedas, and the fact that Revan had visited Thedas before. She didn't think they needed to know all of her unpleasant past; not yet, at least. She would tell them eventually, but not yet. Meanwhile, Duncan shared tales of ancient Blights from a perspective that only a Warden can give. These seemed to intrigue Rose, and she began to be more responsive, asking questions and showing interest.
By the time they reached Ostagar, Rose was in better spirits. She was still crushed by her parents' death, but Revan and Duncan refused to allow her to slip back into depression. After talking with her, Revan found that Rose was much wiser than her years suggested. She had little interest in revenge, and was more distraught by the reasons behind Howe's betrayal than the betrayal itself. Revan admired her for knowing the dangers of seeking revenge.
Revan found that she had become quite close to the girl, much as she and Juhani had been. However, unlike Juhani, Rose didn't blame Revan for the horrible things that had happened to her. In fact, Rose looked up to Revan because of the support the Jedi had shown her. Of course, hilarious stories involving HK-47 helped a lot, too. And Revan realized that she was becoming accustomed to Rose's presence. The girl had a certain attitude that made it seem like she was always interested, even when Revan wasn't speaking. Often times, the two just sat in silence in front of the fire, simply enjoying the company of someone who didn't expect anything but understanding in return. Fuzzywuggins had even stopped looking up menacingly at Revan's approach and had let her give him a belly rub, which was a considerable improvement given the fact that animals didn't particularly like Revan.
Ostagar was a cold place. Not just the weather; the ruins felt old and lifeless, as well as a tad foreboding. There was also a sense of restlessness around the place as they approached the army encampment from the north. Tension prevailed here. It was as if the gray ruins were holding their breath in wait for the big moment, and thus the place had a hushed air to it. Revan immediately got a bad feeling in her chest about this place, much like she had had the first time she visited Malachor V. It felt wrong. She said as much to Rose and Duncan, but they merely shrugged.
As they crossed the bridge into the ruins, a young, tall man with long, blonde locks decked in golden plate armor approached from the camp. A broad smile spread across his handsome face at the sight of Duncan. The guards stood up straighter at his approach and saluted as he passed, but he ignored them as if it were a common occurrence.
"A royal welcome for the glorious Duncan and his new recruits!" the young man declared jovially as he approached. "I was beginning to think you'd miss all the fun, Duncan!"
"Not if I can help it, your Majesty," Duncan bowed respectfully.
The king smiled. "Ah! Then I'll have the mighty Duncan at my side in battle after all! Glorious!
"Ah, but I digress. These two must be the new recruits you found?" the king, Cailan, asked. Revan admitted that the man had certain charm to him, but he was obviously naïve and inexperienced. He had no clue of the horrors of the battlefield.
"Yes. May I introduce Dragonheart, of the Dalish," Duncan gestured to Revan. Revan, bowed, crossing her arms over her chest in respect. "And—"
"Ah, wait, I recognize you!" King Cailan looked closely at Rose. "You're Bryce's youngest, right? I don't believe we've actually met. Your brother is here already, but is unfortunately out scouting in the Korcari Wilds. How are your parents? We haven't received word yet from your father and his troops."
Rose looked down uncomfortably, but forced herself to meet the king's gaze. "It is an honor to meet you, your majesty, but I fear it is not under the most pleasant of circumstances."
"What do you mean?" Cailan asked, obviously puzzled.
"My…Our castle was attacked by Arl Rendon Howe's men about a week ago. My parents were killed by his men, and they continue to hold the castle."
Cailan grew furious, but contained his rage with the skill that only those with years of practice can. "I can…scarcely believe this treachery! How could he think he could get away with something like that? Well, when we are done here, I will make sure to deploy my forces to Highever and bring Howe to justice! You have my word! Though, I am sorry you cannot tell your brother of these…events."
"I am not eager to tell him, your Majesty," Rose replied wearily.
"No, I can imagine not," he agreed. "I apologize, but I can do no more at the time being. Meanwhile, I suggest venting your anger on the darkspawn.
"Well, I'm sorry to cut this short, but I should return to my tent. Loghain waits eagerly to bore me with his strategies," Cailan rolled his eyes.
"Your uncle sends his greetings," Duncan interjected before the king left, "and reminds you that Redcliffe forces could be here in less than a week."
"Oh, Eamon just wants in on the glory," Cailan dismissed the suggestion. "And besides, we've already won three battles against the beasts, and tomorrow should be no different. I'm beginning to doubt this is a real Blight. We've seen plenty of darkspawn on the field, but alas, there has been no sign of an Archdemon."
"Do not be so eager to meet an Archdemon, your Majesty," Revan interjected gravely. "Meeting one is an unpleasant experience that is…difficult to forget."
Cailan seemed taken aback by her answer, but quickly recovered. "Ah, well, I best get back to my tent before Loghain sends out a search party. Farewell, Grey Wardens!"
The three of them bowed as King Cailan turned and left with a smug expression on his face. Duncan gestured for them to follow him into the ruins.
"I didn't realize things were going so well," Rose said skeptically as they walked.
"The king…exaggerates our success," Duncan commented. "I have suggested that we request more troops, but Teyrn Loghain is adamant that this is not a serious enough threat."
"The king seems to regard Grey Wardens highly. Why not recommend it more strongly?" Rose continued.
Duncan paused, thinking. "Though he may regard us highly, he regards the Teyrn more so. He will not order more troops until Loghain tells him to. And I fear by then it may be too late."
"So you think there is an Archdemon behind this?" Rose inquired.
"There is an Archdemon behind this. That is a fact," Revan answered. "The question is when he will reveal himself."
Duncan looked at her curiously, but he said nothing. Rose stared critically. "How do you know that?"
"Just take my word for it," Revan responded. "So, I am assuming there are other Wardens here?"
Duncan looked across the ruins. "Yes…they are here, as are the other two recruits I found, Daveth and Ser Jory. They should be waiting in the encampment."
They came to a large, old stone bridge that connected part of the extensive ruins to the other. Across the bridge, Revan could make out the colorful fabric of tents and banners of the various troops and leaders that composed the army. The view of the surrounding area, including the gorge below, was breathtaking.
Duncan stopped here to address them. "I have some…business to attend to. When you are ready, find Alistair. He will serve as your guide. Then you can meet me at the Grey Warden's tents, where I will tell you what you need to do to prepare for the ritual. And, if you don't mind, you're Mabari can accompany me."
"Ritual? To become a Grey Warden?" Revan complained. "Great. And here I thought I was done with all the 'secret ritual' crap."
Duncan smiled. "Unfortunately, you will have to go through one more ritual."
"So what is this ritual?" Rose asked innocently.
"We call it the Joining, but more I cannot say," Duncan said cautiously.
Rose looked displeased by this, but she didn't protest. Duncan dipped his head and left, Fuzzywuggins padding after him, leaving the two girls alone.
She turned to Revan. "So…"
"Shall we?" Revan gestured to the bridge with an open palm.
With a sigh, Rose assented. At the other end, Revan left the girl to her own devices and began exploring the camps. Somehow, she meandered into the Grey Warden's camp. A few men were gathered around a fire, talking amongst themselves like an exclusive club. One was sharpening his blade on a whetstone, while another was polishing his plate armor. The other was oiling a bow. They all looked up at her approach, pausing in their tasks at the interruption.
"Yes, princess? Is there something we can help you with?" the one polishing the armor asked. "Do you need directions to the kitchens?"
Revan smiled as broadly and as sweetly as she could. "No, I just need to know where the real warriors are. I was told they were here, but it seems I was misled."
"And why would a pretty lady like yourself be looking for the warriors' camp, eh?" the one sharpening his blade asked curiously.
"Oh, I'm supposed to show them how to fight civilly, with a sword," Revan swiftly pulled out her dragon bone sword and twirled it around, inviting the men to challenge her. The men whistled in appreciation at her boldness.
"All right," the blade sharpener stood up. "If a fight is what you want…But with fists, not swords. A warrior's true prowess is measured in how well he—or she—can defend himself with any weapon."
Revan sheathed her sword in acknowledgement and, smiling, rolled up her sleeves. As a Jedi, she had been trained in all sorts of combat, including unarmed. And, though she had never been the best with her fists —that honor had gone to Malak—she could still hold her own, especially against someone who hadn't been trained as a Jedi.
The man, a lanky, wiry-muscled warrior with dark brown hair and calculating, hazel eyes, unstrapped his gauntlets and let them fall to the ground. They moved in closer, assuming a defensive posture and began circling each other, looking for any sign of weakness while analyzing the opponent. The man was skilled, that much she could tell by his stance. They continued to circle, each waiting for the other to make a move. Finally, sick of waiting, Revan feinted at his stomach. The man moved his torso away from her blow, allowing Revan to try and kick his legs from under him. However, he recognized her moves and nimbly dodged aside. He was quick for his size. He then tried to get a blow in at her head and torso, but Revan was able to avoid both. This would not be an easy battle. This cycle of feinting and dodging continued for several minutes until the man, realizing that Revan could anticipate his blows, lunged in with an obvious attack. Revan dodged, but he swung quickly at her exposed side. She blocked, but the force of the blow made her stagger backwards. He took the opportunity to land a heavy, hard blow on her jaw, knocking her to the ground with a thump. Revan caught herself on her arms, and, stunned, spit out a clot of blood.
The man, victory glittering in his eyes, offered her a hand as a gesture of respect. With a wary glance, Revan accepted the offer, and he pulled her to her feet. The rest of the men were silent. She then noticed that another man had joined the others and was watching her with interest. He was a bear of a man, with a long, bushy beard and biceps the size of Revan's thighs. His pale eyes shown with keen intelligence. The rest of the men noticed him just after she did, jumping in surprise. He ignored them and, lifting one of his massive arms, gave her a thumbs up and said with a deep, clear voice, "Approval." And then he walked off without another word. The rest of the Wardens exchanged glances.
"The only other person he's done that to," one the men—the one that had been oiling his bow—commented, "was Alistair."
"He must have been surprised that a woman could last a minute against Calum in a fistfight," the armor polisher sneered.
She looked around to Calum, the man she had fought and lost to, to see what his response would be. He smiled and told her in a low voice, "Scorpio's only jealous because he couldn't last a minute, either. You are a good fighter, and you should not be ashamed that you lost to me; even Duncan cannot best me."
She smiled back. If these were to be her companions in the Wardens, she was content. Even Scorpio would be okay, once he accepted the fact that a woman could be fighter.
"So," the archer began, turning to face Revan. "You're the newest recruit?"
"Yeah," Revan answered. "They call me Dragonheart."
Their eyes widened. "You're…Dragonheart?" Scorpio asked in a quivering voice, his bravado fading.
She shot him a triumphant look. "Yes. I am Dragonheart. Hence the scars," she gestured to the five, white scratches running across her face, evidence of her encounter with the high dragon she had slain all those months ago.
Calum and the archer nodded in approval as Scorpio stared in amazement. She stayed and talked with the other Wardens for a while before deciding to take a look at the rest of the camp. It crossed her mind to wonder what Rose was up to, but she was enjoying her conversations with the soldiers and warriors. Revan spent a long time talking with a group of warriors that called themselves the Ash Warriors. They were accompanied by a pack of vicious mabaris, who predictably growled at her approach. The warriors, however, didn't seem to mind her presence as much as their companions. As soon as Revan began inquiring, they began to break their masks of cold indifference and answered her honestly. They, too, didn't like the way the king was handling the situation. But as warriors, they had responded to his summons.
Eventually, she left the Ash Warriors and set out to find the other recruits. Ser Jory was, predictably, sharpening his sword at the armory. He was a well-built man, but something about him wasn't quite right. He seemed too timid for a knight. However, at the moment, he hadn't noticed her arrival. She sat down next to him.
"You're the other recruit? Ser Jory?" Revan greeted him amiably.
"Yeah," he looked up at her awkwardly. "Forgive me, you are…?"
"Dragonheart, the other recruit," Revan extended her hand.
"Blimey, the Dragonheart?" he hesitantly grasped her hand, his eyes widening in shock.
"Well, I mean, if there isn't another person by the same name, yes," Revan smiled and shook his hand. "So, Ser Jory, tell me about yourself. Where do you hail from?"
"Um," he blinked as he tried to gather his thoughts. "I…I'm a knight. From Redcliffe. But Duncan recruited me from Highever."
"Really? We were just there naught but a week or two ago," Revan commented, not mentioning the fact that the castle had been ravaged.
"How…strange," Ser Jory said politely.
"So, do you have any family there? Wife, kids, parents?" Revan inquired, trying to not let the conversation become awkward.
"Yeah, I have a wife and a child on the way," the knight smiled proudly. "I hope this Blight ends soon, so that I can get back to them."
"I hope you can," Revan smiled, then playfully slapped him on the back as she rose. "Well, I suppose I'll see you again when Duncan summons us, yes?"
"Yeah, I suppose," he grinned awkwardly before returning to his sword.
I hope he realizes that there is no going back as a Warden, she thought to herself as she walked away. Revan vowed that, next time she had the chance, she would try to convince the man to return to his family and forget becoming a Grey Warden. Duncan wouldn't be pleased with her, but there was something about the man that gave Revan the impression that he would soon die. Revan couldn't let that happen, not if she could prevent it.
She quickly banished such gloomy thoughts as she found herself in the camp of the Circle of Magi, whose existence she had just recently learned of from Duncan. All the mages seemed cold and controlled, even from a distance. The entire camp was quiet, except for the muffled sound of slippers hitting the packed dirt. Men in shiny, silvery suits of armor stood guard with bright swords strapped to their waists in silent warning. Revan scanned the camp and discovered an older woman in bright robes leaning against a tree on the edge of the camp, her mage's staff slung across her back. Curious, she approached the woman.
"Hello," the woman kindly greeted her, her voice reminiscent of a loving mother, as velvety as a coverlet.
"So, what's the deal with those tanks over there?" Revan gestured to the guards.
"Pardon?" the mage furrowed her brow. "Do you mean the Templars?"
"They are Templars?" Revan turned back to get a better look at them. "Humph. I thought they'd be more impressive. Or at least scarier."
The mage smiled kindly. "They're scary enough to stop most mages from acting up."
Grinning, Revan offered her hand. "I'm Dragonheart, by the way."
The woman took it, saying, "And I am Wynne. It's nice to make your acquaintance."
"Likewise," Revan smiled back. "So, what's it like to be a mage?"
"In the Circle?" Wynne shifted slightly on the tree. "Good enough, I suppose. I have not known anything else except the Circle. It has been my home since I was a little girl, and I have never really wanted to leave it. However, as to your question, we are treated fairly, are fed and cared for, and are able to practice our art freely, so it is all right."
"Except for those who use blood magic," Revan added.
"Yes, except for them. But those who delve in blood magic and demons are rare and swiftly dealt with."
Revan continued asking questions of the mage, gleaning all she could from Wynne. She was fascinated by the fact that the Chantry disliked and distrusted the mages enough to strip them of their humanity and make them what the mages aptly called "Tranquil". As a Jedi, the only force that had controlled her was the influence of other Jedi. There was no other order dedicated to keeping Force-users in check, though Revan knew of many who wished there was. The existence of the Templars baffled her. Why couldn't the mages regulate themselves? Surely the Templars caused as many problems as they solved.
Before long, Revan noticed the light fading to a warm, golden glow. The sun was suspended just above the tree line, giving the ruins a romantic feel of beauty and adventure. As if on cue, a peal of laughter rang from a nearby ruin, and out ran Rose, smiling with delight and dragging along a grinning, strapping young man by the hand. Revan and Wynne exchanged a knowing look. Rose noticed the Jedi and strung her companion after her, her hair slightly disheveled and slightly out-of-breath.
"Dragonheart! There you are!" Rose ran up to the two women with the young man in hand. "Duncan will want to talk to us soon! Apparently, there's some kind of trial we have to go through."
Revan looked from Rose to the awkward, yet handsome youth and back. Rose blushed in embarrassment. "Right; this is Alistair. Alistair, this is Dragonheart, the woman I was telling you about."
"Ah, yes, the dragon-killing darkspawn-slaying Dalish mage," Alistair smoothed back his light brown hair. "You aren't going to turn me into a toad, are you?"
Revan broke out into an amused grin. "No, toads are too easy to kill. Perhaps I'll turn you into a mouse. Or perhaps a stag. That way, I'll still have the thrill of the chase and I can mount your head on a wall when I've caught you."
The young Warden's eyes widened as he gulped nervously. Revan tried unsuccessfully to stifle her amusement, but at Alistair's expression she burst into a fit of raucous laughter. Rose began giggling hysterically at the same time. Even old Wynne chuckled. Alistair's terror turned to hot embarrassment as he realized Revan had been joking. He laughed sternly at himself for being a fool. Rose leaned on his shoulder as she tried to control herself, but to no avail. Revan was no better. Every time she even looked at him, she burst into another round of laughter. It hadn't even been that funny. Finally, after a few minutes of hysterical cackling, they managed to get a hold of themselves.
Rose clutched her side. "I haven't laughed like that…in ages," she gasped, still leaning on Alistair.
"Glad to be of assistance, m'lady," Alistair said happily, bearing the situation with a dignity that only someone used to taunts and insults can have.
"Well," Revan began, breathing hard. "Let's go find Duncan, shall we?"
She bowed to Wynne before heading back in the direction of the Grey Warden's tent. Rose took Alistair's hand and followed her as she exchanged low whispers with him. Duncan was waiting for them by a huge bonfire, along with Ser Jory, the other recruit Daveth, and Fuzzywuggins. The Mabari perked up when he caught the scent of his master, and bounded, barking, to meet her. Alistair seemed a little surprised as the big hound jumped on Rose like a puppy, his paws resting on her shoulders, but with a shrug from Revan, accepted the Mabari's presence. Duncan looked up at their approach.
"Ah, so you two found Alistair, did you?" Duncan greeted them. "Good. I'll assume you all are ready to begin preparations. Assuming, of course, that you're quite finished riling up mages, Alistair."
Alistair grinned guiltily. "What can I say? The revered Mother ambushed me. The way she wields guilt, they should stick her in the army."
Duncan was not amused. "She forced you to sass the mage, did she?" Alistair looked away in shame. "We cannot afford to antagonize anyone, Alistair. We don't need to give anyone more ammunition against us."
"You're right, Duncan," the young Warden acceded. "I apologize."
Duncan turned back to the recruits. Revan's gaze lingered a while on Alistair, trying to figure out why a Chantry priestess, the revered Mother, would be using Alistair against the mages. "Now then, since you are all here, we can begin. You four—" Duncan looked at Rose, Alistair, Ser Jory, and the dark-haired Daveth, but not at Revan"—will be heading into the Korcari Wilds to perform two tasks. The first is to obtain three vials of darkspawn blood, one for each recruit."
"And what exactly do we need darkspawn blood for?" Rose questioned.
Duncan smiled and answered, "For the Joining itself. I'll explain more once you've returned."
"And the second task?" Rose crossed her arms, clearly not satisfied with the previous answer but knowing that she would get nothing more from the stubborn Warden.
"There was once a Grey Warden archive in the Wilds, abandoned long ago when we could no longer afford to maintain such remote outposts. It has recently come to our attention that some scrolls have been left behind, magically sealed to protect them. Alistair, I want you to retrieve those scrolls, if you can."
"What kind of scrolls?" Revan interjected.
"Old treaties, if you're curious. Promises of support made to the Grey Wardens long ago. They were once considered only as formalities, but with so many having forgotten their commitments to us, I suspect it may be a good idea to have something to remind them with," Duncan gave her a meaningful look. Revan understood his meaning immediately.
"And if they're no longer there?" Daveth shrewdly inquired.
"It's possible the scrolls may have been destroyed or even stolen, though the seals' magic should have protected them. Only a Grey Warden can break such a seal," Duncan answered.
"I don't understand," Alistair scratched his head. "Why leave such things in a ruin if they're so valuable?"
Duncan sighed. "It was assumed that we would someday return. A great many things were assumed that have not held true."
"All right. So, find the vials of darkspawn blood and retrieve the scrolls. Got it," Rose said authoritatively.
Duncan turned to Alistair. "Watch over your charges, Alistair. Return quickly, and safely."
"Don't worry; we will," Alistair said cheerfully.
"Then may the Maker watch over your path. I will see you four when you return. Dragonheart, I need to talk with you," Duncan looked at her, then bowed to the four that were leaving. The three recruits and Alistair bowed in return, and headed toward the gate that led to the Korcari Wilds.
"Oh Mythal, what's happening now?" Revan invoked the elven goddess's name for protection.
The older man ran his hand through his bound hair. "I have a…different task in mind for you. You have already proven yourself reliable and capable in battle. However, this is a task of a different nature. We normally only have older Wardens do this but…" Duncan looked toward the gate, "our only mage is too busy preparing for the upcoming battle to assist us. So, I am going to teach you how to prepare the Joining."
Revan tilted her head to the side in confusion. "But I though recruits weren't allowed to know the details of the Joining?"
"Under normal circumstances, yes. But I do not think you will flee in terror. Your reasons for staying are stronger than that," he stated. "So, I will need you to fetch two vials of darkspawn blood and then return. Quickly."
Revan crossed her chest with her arms in a gesture of silent assent, and then dashed to the gate. The guard there did not blink when she shoved open the gate and ran out. Within five minutes of leaving the camp, Revan was surrounded on all sides by yellowing grass, dark trees, and a constant, eerie mist that blanketed the ground. The Korcari Wilds were a cold, evil place, and Revan could feel the power of the Dark Side embodied in the mist. This was a place of death and tragedy. She was eager to leave the place.
She closed her eye, using her second sight to scan the area for life. Sure enough, there were darkspawn in the area. Revan sprinted toward them and, whipping out her swords, cut the small band of hurlocks and genlocks down in seconds. She took out the two vials, filled them up, and dashed back to Ostagar as fast as she could, even using the Force to propel her faster. There was something in the Wilds, an ominous presence that Revan didn't want to meet.
Duncan was waiting in his tent for her, pouring over maps and documents. Fuzzywuggins waited patiently at his feet, and upon seeing Revan, looked up and barked happily. The aging Warden looked up as well and asked, "Did you retrieve the vials?"
"Of course," Revan smiled, showing him the two vials full of dark, sluggish blood.
"Excellent," Duncan said, straightening his back. "Follow me, please."
Duncan, followed by Revan and Fuzzywuggins, walked through the ruins to a secluded section of rubble. A wooden table covered in magical items was evidence of recent activity. A large, silver chalice stood proudly in the center of the table.
"That," Duncan started, noticing that Revan was looking at the out-of-place object, "is the Joining Chalice."
"Right…" Revan nodded. "So why did I collect two vials?"
Duncan stood silent for a moment before responding. "A few nights ago, when you were out hunting, I got Rose's permission to put her Mabari through the Joining. Without the benefits of being a Warden, he will surely ingest too much of the taint and—"
"—and die," Revan finished. "A wise choice, on her part. So, what's the catch?"
Duncan looked down. "Maker, you're almost too smart. But, I suppose you'll find out soon enough." Duncan paused a moment before continuing, "The Joining is…dangerous. We take the taint within ourselves. Some cannot handle it, and they die. The others who survive become Grey Wardens. However, there is a significant chance that those that go through the Joining will die."
Revan grunted in response. It didn't surprise her in the least.
"You aren't worried?" he asked, curious at her reaction.
"No," she answered honestly. "I'm not going to die."
Duncan furrowed his brows. "And how could you know that?"
"Just trust me; I won't die," Revan repeated. "Now, you were going to tell me how to prepare for the ritual…?"
"Right," he responded. "The Joining requires three things: darkspawn blood, lyrium, and the blood of an Archdemon."
Now Revan was surprised. "Really? Blood? Why is it that every ritual here seems to involve blood?"
Duncan ignored her comment and proceeded to tell her how they were mixed together. The preparation for the ritual involved a lot of magic, but Revan didn't complain about her slight exhaustion. Revan almost recoiled at the Archdemon's blood, but she restrained herself and silently scolded herself. Soon, the concoction was complete. The black liquid sloshed inside the Joining Chalice as Duncan held it to Fuzzywuggins' mouth, and together, they managed to get the Mabari to drink it. Immediately, the Mabari's eyes rolled and turned white before he toppled over to the ground. Duncan checked Fuzzywuggins pulse, but Revan could already tell with her second sight. The Mabari had lived. They both breathed a sigh of relief. If he had died…Revan could only imagine Rose's fury.
Duncan then left with Fuzzywuggins, leaving Revan to prepare the next batch of the mixture, minus the darkspawn blood. The process wasn't terribly difficult, but it did drain Revan of her strength. About an hour later, when the sun had disappeared and the sky was a brilliant azure and Revan had finished preparing, the party returned. Duncan, Revan, and Fuzzywuggins met them at the roaring bonfire.
"So, you return from the Wilds. Have you been successful?" Duncan asked seriously.
"We have," Rose handed him the three vials of the thick, black blood, which Duncan passed to Revan.
"Good. I've had Dragonheart preparing. With the blood you've retrieved, we can begin the Joining immediately. I will not lie to you; we Grey Wardens pay a heavy price to become what we are. The Joining is dangerous. You must all gather your courage for what is about to come."
"Is that why the Joining is so secret?" Rose wondered.
Duncan gave her a tired smile. "If only such secrecy were unnecessary and all understood the necessity of such sacrifice. Sadly, that will never be so."
"Let's go, then. I'm anxious to see this Joining now," Daveth said.
"I agree. Let's have it done," Ser Jory put on a brave face.
"Then let us begin. Alistair, take them to the old temple. Dragonheart, if you could finish the Joining?" Duncan subtly commanded.
He turned and left, expecting Revan to prepare the blood mixture by herself. But Revan had noticed that Ser Jory looked discomfited, as if he had just seen his own, untimely death. She remembered her earlier thoughts about sending the man home so, stuffing the blood vials in her pocket, went over to the knight.
"Are you okay, Ser Jory?" Revan asked politely, taking his arm and leading him towards the middle of the encampment, away from Alistair and the others.
The knight stiffened at the question. "Yeah, I'm just…a little shaken, I guess."
Revan could see that it was more than that, even without the Force aiding her. This man didn't belong in the Wardens. He would die during the Joining, Revan was certain of it. The old Sith part of her, the seed of darkness in her heart, said, He is weak. The Jedi inside of her compelled her to do something to try and save him.
"Go home," Revan stared deeply into his eyes, his soul, using the Force to overwhelm his feeble will. "Go back to your wife and unborn son. You do not want to be a Grey Warden. You want to forget about this entire experience."
"I…do not want to be a Grey Warden," he repeated. "I want to forget this. I want to go home."
And, with that, Ser Jory began walking out of Ostagar, back to Highever. Revan watched him go until he faded from sight before returning to the little alchemical corner in the ruins. The mixture was ready, sitting in the bottom of the Joining Chalice. Revan added the darkspawn blood, finishing the ritual as Duncan had instructed her, and carried the goblet to the old temple on the outskirts of the ruins, away from the prying eyes of others. Daveth and Rose were already there, but they paid her no mind, instead wondering where Jory was. Duncan entered the temple with Alistair trailing behind him and voiced these concerns.
"I sent him home," Revan blatantly told the senior Warden.
Duncan seemed bewildered. "Why would you do that? The need for Wardens is too great!"
Revan gave him one of her cold looks that once gave Malak shivers. "Ser Jory was weak. He would have died during the Joining. He can do more good in Highever, protecting his wife and his neighbors from the threat of the Blight, than he can ever do here, as a Warden."
"That was not your decision to make," Duncan said, equally as cold.
"I cannot stand by and watch an insignificant, innocent man needlessly give his life when he obviously would not have done anyone any good by it," Revan argued. "I'd rather his child have a father than a faceless hero. No disrespect, sir."
Duncan simmered angrily, but backed down. Although he didn't like his authority being usurped, he could see her point. "I hope you were right," Duncan acceded.
"So, at last we come to the Joining. Not all those who drink the blood—" he gestured to the chalice, "—will survive, and those who do are forever changed. This is why the Joining is so secret, and why we usually don't let anyone leave. This is the price we pay. We speak only a few words prior to the Joining, but these words have been said since the first. Alistair, if you would?"
They all moved in closer to form something that resembled a circle. Alistair bowed his head, as if in prayer, and repeated solemnly, "Join us, brothers and sisters. Join us in the shadows where we stand vigilant. Join us as we carry the duty that cannot be forsworn. And should you perish, know that your sacrifice will not be forgotten. And that one day, we shall join you."
Duncan fetched the Joining Chalice and handed it to Daveth, saying, "Rise, Daveth."
The young lad took the chalice and, with a scrutinizing look at the contents, drank some and handed it back to Duncan. Immediately, he began choking and sputtering as his eyes turned white and the taint destroyed his body. Duncan could already tell Daveth was doomed.
"I am sorry, Daveth," he said, standing over the youth as he spasmed and then collapsed, dead.
Duncan then approached Rose. "And now, we come to you. Rise, and become one of us."
Rose took the chalice hesitantly, glancing uncomfortably at Daveth's corpse, and drank. She bent over in pain, clutching her head as her mind was opened to the secret whispers of the Archdemons. Then, she collapsed. But she was still alive.
Alistair went to her as Duncan approached Revan, the last. "Rise, Dragonheart. I hope you were right about this."
Revan took the chalice, her heart beating incredibly fast, but her hands steady. She knew she would survive, but she was still nervous. What if she was wrong? What if, all this time, she had been too cocky? Revan raised it to her lips and drank the ebony blood before handing the Joining Chalice back to Duncan.
"Why must it taste like cherries!" she shouted as her eyes went white and she fell to the floor, overcome with pain, for the fourth time in her short existence.
Revan floated above a chasm, deep underground, filled with the dark, bustling bodies of thousands of darkspawn as they assembled their army. None of them looked up, none saw her flying overhead. Or, at least, that's what she assumed she was doing. The army was huge, mindless, and completely devoted to its leader. He perched precariously on a ledge higher in the giant cavern, observing his work. His black scales glittered red in the light of the forges' fires, and his black eyes glinted evilly. Urthemiel, Archdemon, corrupted Old God of Tevinter. He noticed her, and roared viciously.
HA! WE MEET AGAIN, SMALL ONE! Urthemiel spoke in her head. BUT THIS TIME, IT SEEMS WE ARE ON OPPOSING SIDES.
Revan tried to speak, tried to yell, tried to move, but she was bound by the dream. She desperately wished she could curse at him. Urthemiel curled back his lips, revealing his sharp, silvery, serrated teeth in a kind of mocking smile.
WHAT A WASTE. YOU COULD HAVE BEEN SO MUCH MORE…REVAN. TOGETHER, WE WOULD HAVE BEEN UNSTOPPABLE! SO, INSTEAD, I'LL JUST KILL YOUR INSIGNIFICANT 'FRIENDS' WHO THINK THEY CAN DEFEAT ME AND MAKE YOU MY PRIZED BROODMOTHER! Urthemiel laughed in a reptilian way, from the back of the throat. YOU WILL BE THE PERFECT BROODMOTHER! PERHAPS YOU COULD GIVE ME SOME NEW BREED OF DARKSPAWN THAT NO ONE COULD STOP! AH HA HA! PERHAPS YOU CAN GIVE ME MORE ARCHDEMONS! THAT IS WHAT THE FATE OF THE GREAT REVAN SHALL BE!
Revan was brought closer to him, until her spirit was standing beneath him, looking up at his gigantic head and monstrous teeth. His demonic eyes bored into hers.
JUST REMEMBER WHAT YOU HAVE DONE, REVAN. JUST REMEMBER.
Revan was drawn into his eyes, into the black abyss that awaited her. She screamed…
…and bolted upright, sweating profusely. Poor Alistair, who had been leaning over her face, stumbled backwards as she smacked him with her forehead. Unfazed, she quickly glanced at her hands to make sure that she was real, and not still in the Deep Roads, with the darkspawn. Shakily, she ran a hand through her black hair as she tried to get a grip on reality. Duncan, kneeling next to Rose, noticed her awakening and hurried to her side. Alistair held his head and moved to a safe distance.
"How are you?" Duncan asked, genuinely concerned.
"A-alive," Revan attempted to calm herself. "Though, mentally, I don't think I'll ever recover."
"That tends to be the case," Alistair said as he gently massaged his forehead. "Once a Grey Warden, always a Grey Warden, right?"
Nearby, there was a groan as Rose emerged from her dreams. Alistair rushed over to her as Duncan helped Revan rise. They kneeled next to Rose as she awoke, staring groggily at the sky.
"It is finished," Duncan breathed a sigh of relief. "Welcome."
Alistair offered her a hand up, which Rose gratefully took.
"At least there was only one death this time," the lad said to no one in particular. "That was how it was in my Joining, but it was…horrible. Not something you're likely to ever forget."
"How do you feel?" Duncan asked Rose, ignoring Alistair like usual.
"It's over. I'm fine," she declared bravely, holding one hand against her head to ward against the pain.
"Did you two have dreams? I had terrible dreams after my Joining," Alistair continued, undaunted.
Revan looked away uncomfortably and Rose grimaced. Duncan interjected, saving them from having to speak, by saying, "Such dreams come when you begin to sense the darkspawn, as we all do. That and many other things can be explained in the months to come."
"Before I forget," Alistair, said, reaching into a pocket, "there is one last part to your Joining. We take some of the blood and put it in a pendant. Something to remind us…of those who didn't make it this far."
He handed Revan and Rose a silver necklace with a silver charm crisscrossed with lines of black darkspawn blood. The hint of Archdemon blood within whispered softly to Revan, despite it all. She clasped it around her neck, ignoring her revulsion, as a reminder of why she had agreed to become a Grey Warden. And as a reminder of her past.
"Take some time," Duncan spoke after a moment. "When you are ready, I'd like you both to accompany me to a meeting with the king."
Rose and Revan exchanged a look. "What kind of meeting?" Rose asked, fingering the pendant around her neck.
"The king is discussing strategy for the approaching battle. I am not sure why has requested for both of you," Duncan stated calmly. "The meeting is just down the stairs. Please attend as soon as you both are able."
Duncan and Alistair turned and left, leaving Revan alone with Rose.
"I saw the Archdemon," the young girl stated.
"I did, too," Revan responded gravely.
"So, I guess this is a Blight, after all," Rose continued. "Shall we head to the meeting?"
They walked down the stairs and to the large, stone table on the other side of what once was a grand hall. A large map of Ostagar was spread out on the table, and in front, King Cailan was talking with a shorter man in heavy silverite armor, with black hair and sunken eyes that gleamed with calculating intelligence. A balding mage stood nearby, watching carefully. Revan assumed the black-haired advisor was Teyrn Loghain, but she did not know who the mage might be. Rose and Revan quickly skirted them and moved to the other side of the table to stand next to Duncan.
"Loghain, my decision is final," Cailan firmly stated as they stealthily moved. "I will stand with the Grey Wardens in this assault."
"You risk too much, Cailan," Loghain scolded him. "The darkspawn horde is too dangerous for you to be playing hero on the front lines."
"If that's the case," Cailan argued, "then perhaps we should wait for the Orlesian forces to join us after all."
"I must repeat my protest to your fool notion that we need the Orlesians to defend ourselves," Loghain seethed bitterly. Revan recalled something from her late-night reading at Highever about the kingdom of Orlais ruling Ferelden in the not-too-distant past. She assumed he still bore some resentment towards them.
"It is not a fool notion," Cailan championed. "Our arguments with the Orlesians are a thing of the past. And you will remember who is king."
"How fortunate Maric did not live to see his son ready to hand Ferelden over to those who enslaved us for a century," Loghain said sarcastically.
"Then our current forces will have to suffice, won't they?" Cailan spun and faced the Wardens. "Duncan, are your men ready for battle?"
"They are, your Majesty," he responded.
"And these are the two ladies I met earlier? I understand congratulations are in order."
"Thank you, your Majesty," Rose answered before Revan could grimace in displeasure.
"Every Grey Warden is needed now. You should be honored to join their ranks," Cailan continued.
"Your fascination with glory and legends will be your undoing, Cailan," Loghain accosted him bitterly. "We must attend to reality."
"Fine, speak your strategy," the king relented.
He and Loghain bent over the map and began discussing the general battle plan, assuming everything went according to plan. It was a simple, if well-devised, plan of bait and lure. Cailan and the Wardens, along with most of the army, would serve as bait for the larger darkspawn force. When the darkspawn had fallen for it, Loghain's forces would be alerted by a signal and would move in to flank the darkspawn, thus trapping the horde. It was a good plan, but Revan could see some flaws.
She looked closely at the map as the rest of the party bickered about who would light the signal. Loghain did not trust the Grey Wardens to do it, but Cailan did not want to take any chances. The mage suggested that the Circle magi take care of the signal, but he was shot down by the timely arrival of a Chantry priestess.
"Enough! This plan will suffice. The Grey Wardens will light the beacon," Loghain finally conceded.
"There's only one problem," Revan interjected. "With most of the forces drawn away from the ruins, there will be several spots the darkspawn may try to overrun, and therefore flank both of our armies."
Loghain stopped and looked back at the map. "And where do you see that?"
"Well, the most obvious is at the tower you were speaking of," Revan pointed to it. "There could be old tunnels in and out of it that the darkspawn could use. If we lose the tower, the whole plan fails, and there is a great chance that the horde has enough numbers to attempt something like this."
"Well, that's something you'll have to deal with," Loghain retorted. "We don't have enough forces to spare."
Revan said no more, and soon Cailan dismissed them all. Before leaving, Revan and Loghain exchanged a nod of mutual respect; they both realized the other was a master general. Duncan began walking back to the camp, with Rose, Revan, and the obedient Fuzzywuggins trailing behind.
Revan hurried to catch up to Duncan. "So, you want me to go with them to light the signal?"
"You know that I would rather have you by my side in battle," Duncan said apologetically, "but I need you to protect them both."
"They are quite capable of defending themselves," Revan protested.
Duncan pursed his lips. "Of that I have no doubt. But there is more to it than that. A long time ago, I made a promise to Alistair's mother that I would protect him. I can't do that tonight, so I'm putting my faith in you."
"That is…unwise," she responded bitterly.
"Look, Dragonheart," he stopped and spun to face her, "I don't care what horrible things you might have done in the past. I, too, have done horrible things, but that doesn't make me a terrible person. And you are definitely not a terrible person. I trust you, Dragonheart. You need to trust yourself."
Revan bowed her head, and Duncan continued walking towards the roaring bonfire of the Warden's camp. Alistair was there, waiting impatiently.
"You two heard the plan," Duncan said, facing the three of them. "You all will go to the Tower of Ishal and ensure the beacon is lit."
"What? I won't be in the battle?" a distraught Alistair complained.
"This is by the king's personal request, Alistair. If the beacon is not lit, Teyrn Loghain's men won't know when to charge," Duncan explained.
"So he needs three Grey Wardens standing up there holding the torch, just in case, right?"
Rose grimaced. "I don't like this, either. We would be of more use fighting than running errands."
"This is not your choice," the senior Warden quelled their protests. "If King Cailan wishes Grey Wardens to ensure the beacon is lit, then Grey Wardens will be there. We must do whatever it takes to destroy the darkspawn, exciting or no."
"This is why politicians are not allowed to be generals where I come from," Revan grumbled. Duncan eyed her, but said nothing.
"I get it, I get it," Alistair relented. "Just so you know, if the king ever asks me to put on a dress and dance the Remigold, I'm drawing the line. Darkspawn or no."
"I think I'd like to see that," Rose said to him playfully.
"For you, maybe," the youth smiled. "But it has to be a pretty dress."
Duncan sighed audibly, and Revan struggled to stifle her laughter. "The tower is on the other side of the gorge from the king's camp, the way we came when we arrived," Duncan informed them. "You'll need to cross the gorge and head through the gate and up to the tower entrance. From the top, you'll overlook the entire valley, and you can light the signal."
"All right. It sounds easy enough," Rose said.
"We will signal you when the time is right. Alistair will know what to look for."
"Okay. I think we're ready," she stated, stretching her arms.
"Then I must join the others." Duncan met each of their eyes. Lightning flashed overhead, the sign of an approaching storm. "From here, you three are on your own. Remember, you are all Grey Wardens. I expect you to be worthy of that title."
"Duncan…may the Maker watch over you," Alistair said, suddenly serious.
"May He watch over us all," Duncan responded somberly.
Rose and Alistair left to finish preparing, and Duncan walked over to Revan.
"I don't like this," she told him honestly. Thunder cracked overhead, and a raindrop fell on her head.
"I don't either. But, we do not have a choice in this," Duncan told her. He offered her a hand. "It was a pleasure fighting at your side, Dragonheart."
Revan threw her arms around his neck and hugged him. The Warden stiffened, caught off-guard, but did not draw away.
"And a pleasure to be at yours, Lethallin," she whispered, then pulled away. "I guess I shall see you after the battle."
"Yes," Duncan agreed. "After the battle."
Revan left and rejoined Rose and Alistair, who were waiting near the bridge, taking her time. Revan was not eager to fight.
"This is it," Rose said as she approached. Together, they jogged to the bridge.
A roar echoed from beneath the bridge as the armies charged each other. Large, burning boulders flew through the air and struck the ruins, knocking down the ancient structures bit by bit. Rose stopped and stared at the scene. Obviously, the young girl had never actually seen a battle. Revan, on the other hand, had seen too many. She had almost forgotten the charged energy of the air, the smell of sweat and fear, and the constant clamor of battle. And she had almost forgotten how much she hated it. Almost.
"Come on! We need to get to the Tower of Ishal!" Alistair shouted above the din.
Rose was shaken back into reality, and she lunged after him, followed by Revan. The archers on the bridge aimed at the horde, but many were shot down as the Wardens passed. Several flaming boulders struck the bridge, killing the soldiers and knocking the party to the ground. Rose always was first back on her feet as she ran to the other side of the bridge, her mind set on her task. Alistair and Revan followed.
At the other end of the bridge, near the base of the huge tower, a mage and a soldier were speaking in frantic tones. The soldier noticed them first.
"You—you're Grey Wardens, right? The tower…it's been taken!" the man roared, his nerves frayed.
"Taken? Taken how?" Alistair demanded.
"Darkspawn!" the man responded. "They came up through the lower levels and overran us. They're everywhere!"
Revan turned and gave Rose a pointed look. She had been right after all. Rose, in return, scowled at her. "Well then, we better take it back."
The soldier nodded and ran up the ramp towards the tower. The party, plus the mage, ran after him. Darkspawn were pouring into the area, outnumbering the remaining soldiers. Revan saw them fighting bravely, but they all were overwhelmed and cut down by the merciless darkspawn. She plunged into the fray, her blades whirling frenetically as darkspawn blood pooled on the ground. Soon, with the advances of Rose and Alistair, the darkspawn were driven from the area around the tower. They charged into the tower, unabated.
The soldier had been right. The darkspawn had already taken control of the tower, their corruption evident within. Alistair froze, shocked by this realization.
"Maker's breath!" he exclaimed nervously. "What are all these darkspawn doing ahead of the rest of the horde? There wasn't supposed to be any resistance here!"
Revan smiled cynically and suggested, "Well, perhaps you should try telling them they're in the wrong place."
"Right. Because clearly this is all just a misunderstanding. We'll laugh about this later. At any rate, we need to hurry! We need to get up to the top and light the signal on time! Teyrn Loghain will be waiting for it!" Alistair declared before rushing off to fight the approaching darkspawn. With a quick glance at Revan, Rose rushed after him, followed closely by Revan. The mage hung back and shot spells from a distance.
They moved through the tower's levels quickly. Her new Grey Warden blood made it easier for her to anticipate their attacks, allowing Revan to quickly dispatch the darkspawn. As Revan had predicted, there was a large, gaping hole on the first floor, surrounded by the bodies of those who had been caught off-guard and slain. Rose grimaced queasily, but did not linger. Soon, they had cleared the first floor and ascended to the next.
The tower had four floors, and as they moved up through it, they searched each room for survivors. There were none. Only darkspawn remained in the Tower of Ishal. Soon, not even darkspawn remained as the party ruthlessly cut them down. At last, they came to the last flight of stairs, leading to the top of the tower and to the signal fire, waiting to be lit. They were all uneasy at this point. The mission seemed to be suicide. Revan kept quiet, but through her second sight she knew that more darkspawn were coming to replace those who had fallen.
They rushed up the stairs, eager to finish this doomed mission. Rose, who was leading, abruptly stopped, almost causing Revan and Alistair to run into her. They peered over her to see why she had frozen. In front of them, in the large, cavernous room that housed the beacon, a monster was feeding on the corpse of some poor, unfortunate soldier unlucky enough to have been stationed in the tower. The monster was huge, twice the height of a man, and was covered with bluish-grey skin and armored lightly with iron pauldrons and armguards. Its hands were the size of dinner plates and easily capable of crushing a man's skull. A rack of thick, black, twisted horns grew out of its massive head. It slowly swiveled around, realizing that something had interrupted its meal. Blood dripped from its mouth, and upon seeing them, roared, spraying blood-flecked saliva everywhere. Revan had seen its kind before: ogres, the brutes of the darkspawn horde.
Revan surreptitiously imbued Rose with courage, using the Force. She could see the young girl's posture shift, and with a retorting roar of her own, raised her sword and sprinted to meet this new foe. Alistair followed suit, though he too, was scared. As they attacked from the front, Revan snuck around from behind. Alistair was using his size to draw the beast away from Rose, parrying its hands as it swiped at his head. Rose tried attacking its legs, but it had not forgotten about her, and often struck the ground in an attempt to knock her off-balance. The mage, meanwhile, used spells to slowly wear down the beast. As soon as she was behind the ogre, Revan augmented her strength with the Force, jumped up, and rammed her swords into the ogre's back. The beast screamed, arching his back in an attempt to reach behind and claw her off. Revan hung on. Rose took the opportunity to attack, hamstringing the ogre while he was distracted. The ogre let out another roar, and it fell to its knees. Rose, now on eye-level with it, stabbed her sword through its forehead. The ogre shook, and as she pulled out her sword, it collapsed to the ground.
Alistair looked at Rose appreciatively, though he didn't comment. Instead, he walked over to the large pile of wood within a chimney-like structure.
"We've probably missed the signal. Let's hope we aren't too late," he said, waiting for them to join him. Rose nodded to Revan, who used her magic to combust the wood. The fire burst into life, lighting the beacon. Now, they would wait.
Suddenly, Revan's mind was torn from her body. Her mind was on the battlefield, looking at the blood-soaked valley littered with the corpses of both darkspawn and men. Her host's body was splattered with gore, as were his swords. Revan recognized the weapons, and realized that she was in Duncan's body, sharing his mind. His thoughts were linked with hers. He pulled his blades out of a hurlock and spun to see Cailan fighting nearby. They exchanged a worried glance. The battle was not going well, and they were in desperate need of Loghain's forces. But they were nowhere to be seen. Seconds later, they heard a roar from behind them. Duncan spun, only to get swept aside by a charging ogre. He landed heavily on his side, the pain of his breaking ribs as fresh in her mind as in his. Clutching his chest, he struggled to rise and looked up just in time to see his king, Cailan, fighting urgently to escape the ogre's clutches. With a triumphant roar, the ogre snapped Cailan's back and tossed him aside like a rag doll, where he smashed into two other soldiers. Shocked into action, Duncan rose and, brandishing his daggers, jumped on the ogre and plunged his daggers in its chest. It hollered in pain, but Duncan's daggers were not long enough to fatally wound it. So Duncan pulled out one and stabbed it higher, even closer to its corrupted heart. Revan lent him strength as he pulled himself up further, until he was able to stare the brute in the eye. He plunged a dagger in, right below the collarbone, and pushed it deeper until it stabbed through the ogre's heart. The beast gave one more, great roar and fell to the ground. Duncan was thrown off, stripped of his weapons. Looking up, he saw that the beacon had been lit, and that no reinforcements had come. Teyrn Loghain had betrayed them. He knew he was going to die, and so did Revan. With the last of his strength, he gave Revan all of his memories. In return, Revan took all of his pain within her own mind and shared with him some of her happiest memories in his last moments. She showed him some of the planets she had been to, showed him the wondrous planet-city of Coruscant, the beaches of Lehon, the azure waters of Manaan, the colorful world of Felucia, and the beautiful planet of Gala. She shared with him some of her happiest memories, imbuing him with joy and serenity. She felt him be at peace. A hurlock alpha approached, and with a cruel, twisted laugh, plunged his corrupted blade into Duncan's heart.
Revan screamed as the pain flooded through her. Her consciousness returned to her body, and the pain ceased. She found herself clutching her head, with Rose and Alistair staring at her, concerned. They were about to say something, but there was a bang as the door leading to the stairs was kicked in. A second later, several genlocks appeared, armed with bows, and fired. Rose took several in the torso and collapsed, but she was still alive. The mage took one to the head and died. Alistair charged, roaring with fury, but he too was shot and knocked unconscious. Summoning her power, Revan unleashed a torrent of the Force in a vain attempt to save her friends. The air around her turned to plasma as bolts of lightning shot from her body and struck the darkspawn. She fell to her knees, drained of all energy, with the bodies of the darkspawn cluttering the stairs. More were filing in, shuffling through the bodies of their comrades. They were going to die.
With a large boom, the rest of the darkspawn were blasted into oblivion from behind. Slowly, a woman ascended the stairs and surveyed the carnage. She was an old, ancient woman, with white hair, deep wrinkles, and bright, cunning eyes, but Revan could see her true form. Upon seeing Revan kneeling prone on the floor, the woman smiled devilishly, ignoring the others. Those familiar eyes locked with Revan's.
The woman flashed her sharp teeth at Revan. "So, we meet at last…Urthemiel."