Dragon AgeGod of War: Of Dragons and Gods Chapter 3, a God of War + Dragon Age Crossover fanfic

Dragon Age/God of War: Of Dragons and Gods

…

Chapter 3: The Raiders of Sundermount and A Story For the Ages

As Hawke, Kratos, Bethany, and Varric made their way through the city streets to the Viscount's Keep, they couldn't help but notice the whispers and stares directed at Kratos. People leaned in towards one another, sharing hushed conversations as they pointed at him.

"Is that him?" one person muttered.

"Yeah, I think that is," another responded, eyes wide with awe. "The one they say has enough strength to rip an ogre in half."

Kratos simply ignored the whispers and continued on, his stoic expression never changing. He had grown used to the rumors and legends that seemed to follow him wherever he went. It mattered little to him; his focus was on protecting those he had come to care for and finding a way back to his own world.

Arriving at the Viscount's Keep, the group found Aveline preoccupied with a troublesome issue: a group of raiders had established a base at the foot of Sundermount, and their activities were causing chaos and instability in the region.

Seeing the concern etched on Aveline's face, Hawke didn't hesitate to offer their assistance. Kratos, Bethany, and Varric quickly agreed, knowing that lending their skills to Aveline's cause would not only help the city, but also further solidify their bond as a team.

With a grateful nod, Aveline explained the details of their mission: they were to infiltrate the raiders' base, gather intel on their activities, and put an end to their operations, ensuring the safety of the city and its people.

The group made their way to Sundermount, prepared for the challenges ahead. As they ventured closer to the raiders' base, they began to see signs of the destruction and turmoil the raiders had caused. The determination in their eyes grew, fueled by a desire to bring justice to those who had suffered at the hands of these criminals.

Stealthily, they approached the base, careful not to alert any of the raiders to their presence. Each member of the group relied on their unique skills and experiences to navigate the treacherous terrain and overcome the obstacles in their path.

Together, they faced the raiders with unwavering courage and a steadfast determination to bring an end to the chaos that had plagued the region. With each victory, their bond as a team grew stronger, as did their resolve to protect the city and the people they had come to care for.

Hawke suddenly raised his hand, signaling the group to halt. He crouched down and carefully brushed away some sand, revealing another set of well-hidden traps. With skilled precision, he disarmed them one by one, ensuring the safety of his companions. However, as he did so, Kratos began to feel a growing sense of unease.

The atmosphere around them was too quiet... too still. Before Kratos could voice his concerns, Hawke realized the same thing and yelled out a warning.

"It's a trap!"

Raiders burst from their hiding spots, ambushing the group from all sides. The quiet had been a deliberate ploy to lure them in and catch them off-guard. Despite the surprise attack, Hawke, Kratos, Bethany, Varric, and Aveline sprang into action, their reflexes honed from countless battles.

Aveline raised her shield to block a raider's strike, countering with a swift blow of her sword. Varric's crossbow, Bianca, sang through the air as he took aim and fired bolt after bolt with deadly precision. Bethany wielded her magic, hurling bolts of energy and conjuring protective barriers for her allies.

Kratos unleashed his Leviathan Axe and Blades of Chaos, cutting down enemies with his unmatched strength and skill. The raiders, initially confident in their surprise attack, soon realized the grave mistake they had made in underestimating their opponents.

Together, the group fought off the raiders' ambush, their teamwork and trust in one another only growing stronger. Despite the unexpected challenge, they continued to press forward, resolute in their determination to put an end to the raiders' reign of terror.

As another group of raiders charged towards them, Kratos stepped forward, gripping his Leviathan Axe tightly. With a powerful, battle cry-like movement, he swung the axe and released a wave of cold and ice that surged forward, accompanied by a blindingly bright light.

Hawke, Bethany, Varric, and Aveline shielded their faces from the intensity of the light, unsure of what to expect. When the brightness subsided, they lowered their arms and were met with a sight that left them in awe.

The charging raiders had been stopped in their tracks, their bodies frozen solid with ice shards protruding from their forms. The trail of ice shards led backward, tracing the path of Kratos' powerful attack. Even the sand beneath them was coated in a thin layer of frost.

The sight of their comrades frozen and defeated sent a chill down the spines of the remaining raiders, and they began to falter, realizing the overwhelming power they faced. Kratos' display of might had struck fear into their hearts and demonstrated the formidable skills of the group as they continued their mission to put an end to the raiders.

For a moment, nobody moved as Kratos stood there, taking in the results of his attack. Then, in a flash, he spun to the side and hurled his axe like a boomerang. It sliced through the air, aimed at a line of archers who had been preparing to fire at the group.

The axe cut through the first two archers with ease, the sharp edge of the weapon leaving no chance for them. The third archer was hit with such force that he was sent crashing to the ground, his bow flying out of his hand. The axe then whirled back through the air, returning to Kratos' outstretched hand with a satisfying thud.

The remaining raiders, witnessing Kratos' brutal efficiency and the sheer power of his weapon, began to waver in their resolve. Fearful whispers spread among their ranks as they realized that they were facing a foe unlike any they had encountered before.

Hawk spoke up, his voice firm and authoritative, "Surrender to the law. You don't need to die today. If you cooperate, you will receive a fair trial."

Aveline stepped forward, her tone resolute and unwavering, "I am an officer of the guard. You will be treated justly if you lay down your weapons and surrender now."

The raiders hesitated, exchanging uncertain glances with one another. Their previous confidence had all but evaporated in the face of Kratos' display of strength and the stern warning from Hawk and Aveline. It seemed that, for once, the possibility of a non-violent resolution was within reach.

After a few tense moments, the raiders began to drop their weapons, one by one, surrendering to the group. Relief washed over Aveline, Hawk, Bethany, and Varric as they realized that the conflict had come to an end without further bloodshed. The raiders were now in their custody, and they could return to Kirkwall with a sense of accomplishment, knowing that they had made the city and the surrounding area a safer place for all.

…

Aveline stormed out of the office, clearly frustrated after the scolding she had received from her superior. Hawk, Bethany, Kratos, and Varric looked on with concern as she approached a notice board, trying to distract herself from the situation.

Hawk spoke up, his tone thoughtful, "It's suspicious why he's so angry with you for that, Aveline."

Aveline sighed, nodding in agreement as she scanned the notices. "You're right, Hawk. I don't understand why the Captain of the Guard would be so angry about us successfully dealing with the raiders."

Varric chimed in, "Maybe there's something more going on here, something he doesn't want us to know."

Bethany added, "It might be worth looking into. If there's corruption within the guard, it could put everyone at risk."

Aveline considered their words and finally said, "You all make good points. I'll keep my eyes and ears open, and if I find anything that indicates corruption or wrongdoing within the guard, I'll let you know. We need to keep the people of Kirkwall safe, and that includes addressing any issues within our own ranks."

With a renewed sense of determination, Aveline and the group set out to uncover the truth behind the Captain's unusual behavior, knowing that the safety and well-being of the city depended on their efforts.

Aveline's eyes landed on the roster displayed on the wall, and her concern deepened. She noticed that Guardsman Donnic was assigned a solo patrol in Darktown that night, a dangerous and potentially deadly task.

"I don't like this," Aveline said, pointing at the roster. "Donnic's a good man, but sending him alone into Darktown for a patrol is practically a death sentence. It doesn't make sense."

Hawk glanced at the roster, his expression turning serious. "You're right, Aveline. Something's off. We should look into it."

Bethany nodded, worry etched on her face. "If there's a chance Donnic is in danger, we can't just sit idly by."

Kratos agreed, his voice firm. "We will help you, Aveline. We must ensure the safety of your comrade."

Varric smirked, "Well, it looks like we've got ourselves another investigation. Count me in."

With their minds made up, Aveline and the group decided to investigate the situation further. They were determined to discover the truth behind the strange patrol assignment and, if necessary, protect Donnic from any potential harm. As they left the Viscount's Keep, they prepared themselves for whatever dangers awaited them in Darktown, intent on uncovering any secrets hidden within the guard.

As night fell, the group made their way through the dimly lit streets of Darktown. They immediately sensed that something was off. Thugs loitered in the shadows, casting wary glances their way, and a tense atmosphere hung in the air.

"We need to find Donnic quickly," Aveline said, her voice filled with urgency. "Something's not right here, and we don't have time to waste."

Hawk nodded, his eyes scanning the area for any sign of Donnic. "Stay alert and keep your weapons ready. We don't know what we're dealing with yet."

Kratos and Varric exchanged a glance, both understanding the severity of the situation. As they continued their search, they were extra vigilant, ready for anything that might come their way.

Bethany cast a protective spell around the group, giving them an added layer of defense as they moved through the dangerous streets.

They encountered a few groups of thugs along the way, but the team dispatched them quickly and efficiently, not allowing them to slow their search for Guardsman Donnic.

With each step, the tension in the air grew thicker, and the group knew that they were closing in on whatever sinister plot was unfolding in Darktown. Their resolve to find Donnic and protect him from harm only grew stronger as they continued deeper into the shadows.

The group finally found Donnic lying on the ground, surrounded by a gang of thugs. They sprang into action, quickly dispatching the criminals and freeing Donnic from their clutches.

"What happened here?" Aveline asked, her voice filled with concern as she helped Donnic to his feet.

Donnic, still shaken, explained that Captain Jeven had sent him to make a delivery. He handed the package to the group, and as they opened it, their faces went pale with shock. The contents included detailed information on the Viscount's office, specifically city accounts. It became clear that Jeven had set up Donnic as a sacrificial delivery to provide the thugs with vital information on the keep.

Hawk clenched his fists in anger. "We've come this far, and we won't let Jeven's treachery go unpunished. We need to head back to the keep right now and expose him for what he's done."

The group, filled with determination, made their way back to the Viscount's Keep with Donnic, ready to confront Jeven and reveal his deceit to the Viscount. They knew that their actions would have a significant impact on the future of the city, and they were prepared to face the consequences head-on.

An hour later….

As the group returned to the Viscount's Keep, they found Jeven being arrested by some guards. Jeven, furious and desperate, demanded that they let him go. He turned his gaze to Aveline, venom in his eyes.

"You! You think this is over? This isn't over!" he shouted, as the guards continued to escort him away.

Seneschal Bran, who had been observing the situation, approached Aveline and the rest of the group. He looked Aveline up and down, considering the situation before speaking.

"With Jeven's crimes exposed and his position vacant, it is my honor to appoint you, Aveline Vallen, as the new Captain of the Guard," Bran said, his voice filled with respect and admiration.

Aveline, visibly moved by the trust placed in her, nodded and accepted the position. The group couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment, having helped their friend achieve the recognition she deserved and restoring integrity to the city's guard force.

Aveline took a moment to take in the gravity of the situation and turned to Hawke, Kratos, and the others. Gratitude shone in her eyes as she spoke.

"Thank you, all of you, for believing in me and helping me get here," she said sincerely.

Hawke smiled warmly and placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "You've earned this, Aveline. And remember, if you ever need our help, just call. We'll be there for you."

Aveline nodded, her eyes filled with appreciation and newfound determination. With her friends by her side, she was ready to face whatever challenges awaited her as the new Captain of the Guard.

…

The next day…

Hawke and Kratos were at their desk, going through various notes and updates on the happenings in Kirkwall, when Varric approached them with a proposition.

"Hey, Hawke, Kratos," Varric began, a mischievous glint in his eyes, "I've been thinking. Your stories of heroics are legendary, and they're only growing with each passing day. How about I sit down with both of you for an interview? I could write a tale about your adventures, and it might be a good opportunity to catch up."

Hawke and Kratos exchanged a glance, considering Varric's offer. They knew that their actions had already made an impact in Kirkwall, and having their stories told by Varric could further inspire the people.

Hawke nodded in agreement. "All right, Varric. We're in. We'd be honored to have you tell our stories."

Kratos, still somewhat uncomfortable with the idea of sharing his past, hesitated for a moment before agreeing. "As long as we're careful about what we reveal, I'll participate."

Varric grinned, clearly excited about the prospect of writing about their heroic deeds. "Perfect! This is going to be a story for the ages. Just wait and see."

At the Hanged Man, Varric, Hawke, and Kratos sat down at Varric's usual table, ready for the interview to begin. Varric wasted no time in getting started, turning to Hawke with his first question.

"So, Hawke, what drives you?" Varric asked, his quill poised and ready.

Hawke took a moment to consider the question before responding. "I think what drives me the most is my duty to my family and friends. I want to protect them and make sure they're safe. My worst fear is letting them down. Everything I do, I do with them in mind."

Kratos listened intently to Hawke's answer, admiration for the mortal before him growing stronger. Despite being from different worlds, they both understood the weight of duty and the importance of family.

Varric nodded, jotting down Hawke's answer. "A noble sentiment, Hawke. Family and friends are indeed a powerful driving force." He then turned to Kratos, "What about you, Kratos? What drives the mighty warrior from another land?"

Kratos hesitated for a moment, reflecting on his past and the many lessons he had learned. "Like Hawke, my actions are also driven by the desire to protect those I care about. I've learned the hard way the importance of family, and I strive to not repeat past mistakes. I now seek redemption, and to teach my own son the lessons I've learned."

Varric's eyes lit up, sensing the depth of the stories they both had to share. "This is great, you two. Your stories are bound to inspire the people of Thedas and beyond."

Varric then turned his attention back to Hawke, the questions continuing to flow. "Hawke, what was it like to escape the Blight? I'm sure it was a harrowing experience. Are you willing to share your story? Kratos, here, seems to be intrigued as well, as he wasn't there when it happened. Plus, he seems curious about the darkspawn."

Hawke looked thoughtful for a moment, recalling the events that had transpired. "It was indeed a harrowing experience," he began. "When the Blight came, it tore through everything in its path, leaving nothing but devastation in its wake. My family and I, along with many others, were forced to flee from our homes in order to survive. We encountered countless challenges, including hunger, exhaustion, and the ever-present danger of darkspawn."

He paused for a moment, his eyes glancing over to Kratos, who listened intently. "The darkspawn... they're vile creatures, twisted and corrupted by the Blight. They attacked relentlessly, mindlessly, as though driven by a single, malevolent will. Our escape from the Blight taught me many things, not the least of which was the true value of perseverance and the strength that can be found in standing together with those you care about."

Kratos nodded, taking in the details of Hawke's story. The Blight and the darkspawn were unlike anything he had encountered in his own world, and he couldn't help but admire the resilience of the people of Thedas who had survived such a catastrophe.

Hawke then mentioned the ogres, describing their distinct features. "They were massive, with horns and armor-like plating covering their bodies. They were incredibly strong and ruthless in their attacks."

Kratos, listening intently, asked, "Can they... speak?"

Both Varric and Hawke looked at him, wondering if he was joking. However, when they saw the serious expression on his face, Varric quickly jotted down the information about Kratos' question in bewilderment, while Hawke decided to answer.

"No, they don't speak like we do," Hawke replied. "Ogres are like other darkspawn in that regard – they simply roar and charge at their enemies. They're not known for being intelligent or communicative, just relentless and brutal."

Kratos nodded, processing this new information. He understood that the ogres and darkspawn of Thedas were different from anything he had encountered before, and he was eager to learn more about this strange, new world.

Kratos noted that they said on multiple occasions that the blight was the 5th blight...does that mean they've faced a threat like this four times before...? He asked them with a curious expression on his face….

Hawke nodded, confirming Kratos' question. "Yes, that's correct. The Blight we faced was the fifth in recorded history. There have been four previous Blights, each with its own challenges and devastating consequences. They're marked by the appearance of darkspawn, led by an Archdemon – an Old God corrupted by the taint."

Varric chimed in, adding, "Each time, it's taken the combined efforts of the Grey Wardens and various armies to put an end to the threat. The Blights are one of the greatest dangers our world has faced, and their impact can still be felt in many parts of Thedas."

Kratos listened carefully, realizing the gravity of the situation and the resiliency of the people in this world. It was clear that Thedas had faced many hardships, and the darkspawn were a persistent and formidable enemy. He admired the courage and determination it must have taken for the people to overcome such odds time and time again.

Hawke continued, "The reason a Grey Warden has to deal the finishing blow to the Archdemon is because of the unique bond the Wardens share with the darkspawn due to the Joining ritual. When a Grey Warden kills the Archdemon, the creature's soul is drawn into the Warden, and since the Warden's own soul is tainted, the Archdemon's essence is destroyed, ending the Blight. If anyone else does it, the Archdemon's soul simply moves to the nearest darkspawn, and the cycle continues."

Varric added, "As for the Hero of Ferelden, the one who ended the Fifth Blight, they somehow managed to survive after dealing the killing blow to the Archdemon. It's a rare and extraordinary feat, and many still wonder how it was possible. Some say it's due to the help of powerful magic, while others believe it's a testament to the Hero's unparalleled will and determination."

Kratos found the story of the Grey Wardens and the Archdemon fascinating. It revealed the complexity of the challenges that the people of Thedas faced, and the sacrifices required to ensure the survival of their world. He couldn't help but feel respect for those who had risked everything to save their people from the horrors of the Blight.

.what's the craziest thing you've ever done? and kratos wouldn't know where to begin, and he was feeling generous now that he was comfortable so he let them know two things he's done that were some of his craziest.

Varric raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed and intrigued by Kratos' stories. "Well, those are definitely not your everyday tales, Kratos. Splitting a valley, wrestling with someone called Baldur, and killing a mountain-sized giant... sounds like something straight out of a legend. And that cannibal who ate his own children, what a twisted creature. I can see why they overthrew him."

Kratos simply nodded, "Yes, the world I come from is filled with beings of immense power, and many of them are dangerous, even monstrous. But every challenge, every battle, has taught me something new and made me the warrior I am today."

Hawke and Varric exchanged glances, both awed by Kratos' experiences and the strength he had gained from them. It was clear that their new friend had faced unimaginable challenges and had come out stronger as a result. The stories Kratos shared only increased their respect and admiration for him and his journey.

Kratos looked at them solemnly before gesturing to the massive scar that stretched from the front of his side all the way to his back. Their eyes widened at the sight, both amazed and horrified by the extent of the injury.

"This scar," Kratos began, "is a reminder of one of the greatest battles I've ever fought. It was against a being of immense power and cruelty. We fought for what felt like an eternity, and in the end, I emerged victorious... but not without paying a great price."

Hawke and Varric stared at the scar, their minds racing with questions about what kind of creature could have inflicted such a wound on Kratos, and how he managed to survive it.

"Your resilience is truly astounding, Kratos," Hawke said, admiration evident in his voice. "You've faced unimaginable challenges and still stand strong."

Varric nodded in agreement, adding, "And here you are, still fighting,

Kratos hesitated for a moment, then decided to trust them further, as he had come to know their character. He let out a deep breath and said, "That scar was given to me by my own father. It is a reminder of the betrayal and pain I've endured in my life, and it will stay with me forever."

Hawke and Varric exchanged a look of shock and sympathy. They had never expected such a revelation. It was clear that Kratos carried a heavy burden, and yet he still managed to fight and protect those around him.

"I'm sorry, Kratos," Hawke said, his voice filled with empathy. "No one should have to experience that, especially not from their own family."

"Yeah," Varric chimed in, "It's hard to imagine the pain you've gone through. But know that you have our support, Kratos. You're not alone in this fight."

Kratos nodded, acknowledging their words. "Thank you," he said sincerely. "Your support means more than you know." And in that moment, the bond between them grew stronger, solidifying their friendship and trust in one another.

Hawke's eyes darkened as he continued, "A father who does that to their own child has no right to be a father at all."

Kratos observed Hawke's outrage and nodded in agreement. "You are right, Hawke. A true father should be there to protect and guide their children, not to cause them pain."

Hawke placed a hand on Kratos' shoulder, reassuring him. "Well, you've found a new family here with us. We may not be related by blood, but we're here for you, Kratos. Always."

Kratos looked at Hawke and then at Varric, sensing the sincerity in their words. A small, grateful smile formed on his face. "Thank you, both of you. I am honored to be a part of this family."

Hawke thought for a moment, then looked at Kratos. "How about 'The Light in the Darkness'?"

Kratos nodded, considering the option. "Yes, that reflects our journey together better, and it represents the hope we bring even in the darkest of times."

Varric grinned, jotting down the title. "'The Light in the Darkness' it is, then! Thank you both, again. This is going to be one incredible tale."

Hawke and Kratos shared a smile, knowing that their adventures were far from over and that the bonds they had formed would only grow stronger with time.

Cassandra looked visibly horrified upon hearing about how Kratos' father had treated him. "That's just... unthinkable."

Varric nodded solemnly. "In the other realms of gods, things aren't cut and dry, Seeker. From what I gathered, Kratos' father did far worse than just that scar. It's a cruel and violent world, but it seems like Kratos has tried to leave that behind and forge a new path."

Cassandra shook her head, still processing the information. "I cannot even begin to imagine what he has endured, but it's commendable that he's managed to find a new purpose and allies here in Thedas."

Varric smiled slightly. "That's the beauty of the stories I write, Seeker. They show that even the most broken of heroes can find hope and redemption in the most unlikely places."

Cassandra raised an eyebrow, still intrigued. "So, you mentioned that ogres can talk in his land? That's... quite different from what we know of them here."

Varric shrugged his shoulders. "Different world, different rules, Seeker. It seems like their world is full of strange and fantastic creatures that we can't even begin to fathom. Makes for a great story, though."

Cassandra nodded, still processing everything she had learned. "It certainly does, Varric. It just goes to show that there is still so much we don't know about other worlds and their inhabitants. It's truly fascinating."

Varric grinned. "And that, my friend, is why I write. To capture these moments of wonder and share them with the world."