A/N: That's right. A Needed Asset is gone. Why? Well, there were places I was looking to take the story. Places I thought about since I was originally visualizing A Needed Quest. And then I came to this realization. It was thanks to the setting, where Shepard appears outta nowhere, some things wouldn't make sense. And yeah I get it, nothing makes sense in these stories.
Despite the problem, I'm still making a sequal. Now that I'm not utilizing the Mass Effect games, we're officially connecting to Dragon Age Origins. As a series, I've come to like Dragon Age more. So this works out pretty well.
There are a few things I'm going to mention. One, Morrigan is a lot more powerful than she is in games. I mean... a whole lot more powerful. Maybe she's even strong enough to where she can already turn into a Dragon as soon as she meets the Warden? Is that really possible?! Are such changes even plausible?! Who can tell? Not me ;)
Two, there is a small chance I might try to incorporate the remaining Dragon Age titles. At the very least I will utilize some more Dragon Age companions, as I just love them all so much. But you shouldn't expect someone as important as Hawke to make an appearance. At least not so soon in the story.
Now, everyone, please enjoy Act II. And make sure you all stay safe out there.
Chapter 1: Legend
Do legends launch into life as legends? No, obviously not. Destiny aside, that's not even possible. Beginning stage wise, they're just like everyone else. Which is why, theoretically, there is a legend inside everyone. The only problem... unlocking those legends.
Hero is a specific title given to legends who are strong enough, in strength and soul, to evolve into those who will always find a way to save as much as possible. Of course... Heroes are not the only legends. And in time, you will learn about more a few more legends along the way. But those are legends who receive little praise when compared to the Heroes.
Given enough time, there are even occasions where, even though it seems like an impossible scenario, these legends will find a way to come face to face. And when they are able manage such a feat, in the moments they are one presence, that presence possesses limitless potential.
Now we share with you... Ferelden's most recognizable Grey Warden, Lucius Cousland. It is such a strange name, yes? There was a point in Lucius' life where the others in his lineage were only able to value Lucius as the youngest sibling in the Cousland line, which wasn't necessarily an awful thing, mind you. Today, the Cousland line is still well respected in Ferelden, all thanks to Lucius.
Despite possessing the Cousland line's surname, Lucius was ambitious, craving even more. He was someone whose ambitions were endless, insane, seemingly impossible to achieve to normal people. To some, these ambitions, they were seen as vile. Lucius sought to transform the Cousland name... no, his name, into pure legend.
He would find a way to turn into a famous... possibly infamous legend across Ferelden. And one whose exploits would make it all the way to Orlais. But even with his ambitions out there, there were still some who saw Lucius as nothing more than a young man chasing his unachievable goals.
Bryce Cousland, Lucius' Dad, was the sole exception. He was the Teryn to Highever and was constantly telling the young Lucius stories about lands outside his own Kingdom. Though Bryce Cousland was certain these stories would influence Lucius, the Teryn was unable to see Lucius eventually traveling to these same lands several years in the future.
There was the mysterious Brecilian Forest, where the Dalish Elf tribes, along with talking Werewolves, so the legends say, were living. From the violent fashion Bryce always spoke in when talking about the Brecilian Forest, it made it obvious these two groups, assuming the second faction wasn't just some myth, were constantly engaging in conflict. And this conflict's cause was from something a long time ago.
But... there were Werewolves? Even with everything else going on in Thedas. All the magical entities, all the rich ancient lore, even Darkspawn. It was all more plausible than... Werewolves. It was just not something Lucius was willing to take with a serious face. Still, meeting with, possibly getting the chance to fight a couple Werewolves, that's a once in a lifetime experience.
As soon as the Dalish tales were gone, the more interesting ones anyway, Bryce went on to tell stories about the infamous Circle Of Magi, standing tall next to Lake Calenhad. Although, unlike with the Dalish tales, these passages were more like scary stories than anything else.
Bryce was also sure to mention the Templars. The Templars are essentially the Chantry's own private military force. It continues to watch the Circle carefully, ensuring the Mages are learning to properly and carefully utilize the Maker's gifts.
One important passage Bryce forgot to read was the one about the many Templars who tend to ruin themselves when they indulge too much in Lyrium, the same material that allows them to resist rogue Mages magic. Eventually, should Templars overindulge in Lyrium, the addiction starts to set in. And then things only get worse from there.
And even though it is still an extremely controversial subject, Bryce made sure to explain that sometimes the Mages who prove too savage to contain are, as the Chantry calls it, made Tranquil. Tranquility is a process which takes away a Mage's emotions... all emotions. Essentially Tranquil Mages were just... empty inside. Taking away a person's emotions and leaving them as nothing more than some empty shell? It was a good thing magic chose to stay away from the Cousland's tree.
But more than anything, these stories gave Lucius a new view towards the Circle's Mages, mainly sympathetic views. Were all the Mages truly so menacing? Was allowing no Mages to exist outside the Circle really the necessary solution? Lucius, still young, saw that now was not the time to find answers to those questions.
The last place Bryce would speak about in these tales, which was the same place Lucius would always speak about as though it was the most important place in Thedas, was Orzammar, which is where all the underground Dwarves reside. More importantly, it's where explorers will stumble across the main entrances to the Deep Road. And inside those Deep Roads, the Darkspawn continue to wait as the next Blight approaches.
Stories involving the Darkspawn were always fascinating and intriguing to Lucius. When centuries pass, the Darkspawn will eventually leave the Deep Roads, seeking only to spread chaos, aiming to infect Ferelden and Orlais' people with the taint, leading to even more Darkspawn. When Darkspawn attack, even when it's just a small raid, massive casualties will always arise.
But the Darkspawn are always slain time and time again when the Grey Wardens challenge them, forcing them to return to the Deep Roads. The Grey Wardens, men who are able to instantly sense where the Darkspawn forces are at all times. This makes them the most effective forces to take on the Darkspawn, which is why they're always the ones to charge straight into the Darkspawn's lines.
At a young age, Lucius, like so many young men his age, was looking to join the Wardens. More than anything, joining the Wardens was on his conscious. Unfortunately, his fellow Couslands were not going to allow it. Particularly, Lucius' mom, Eleanor, was the constant overprotective force in Lucius' life. She was always talking about Lucius needing to give the family some more Grandchildren.
Bryce was at least willing to provide his son with some training. Fergus, Bryce's second son, spoke to Lucius about learning to fight like a real Warden He was put in awe when Lucius immediately said no. Apparently, Lucius was looking to fight like a rogue. Rogues are individuals who use manipulation/sabotage to achieve victory. Bryce wasn't exactly okay with someone representing the Cousland line fighting his enemies in such a... style. But even so, Lucius was soon met with teachers sent to train the young Cousland in the various rogue fighting styles.
Years came to pass. During that entire time, Lucius' training would continue to grow more vicious. One morning Lucius awoke to find that Bryce's old companion, Arl to Amaranthine, Rendon Howe was visiting. It was time. The Darkspawn were finally coming out to play. And the two Arls were going to join forces, looking to ensure the Darkspawn were made to return to the Deep Roads. At least, this is what Lucius and his family thought.
As it turns out, even old friendships mean nothing in evil men's plans. But that is not important right now. What is immediate, is that Howe was not the only one paying a visit to the Couslands. Lucius was in awe when finding out that a single Grey Warden, Duncan, was also staying. Duncan spoke to Lucius, Howe, and Bryce, telling them all that it was his mission to recruit new Grey Wardens, requiring as many men as possible in the fight against the Darkspawn. As soon as all words left Duncan's, Lucius was quick to announce his own eagerness to join the Warden's fight.
But once again, Lucius' own family was getting in his way. Bryce spoke as though his words were scripture. Lucius was to remain in the Cousland Estate, making sure his mom was safe from all Darkspawn threats. He was also given permission to temporarily rule Highever's people, at least until Fergus, Bryce, and Howe made sure the Darkspawn threat was gone. Disappointing as the idea was, Lucius was given no choice. Was his chance to join the Wardens was seemingly lost?
Perhaps not. Because as soon as Lucius gave his farewells to Fergus, then taking the opportunity to catch some sleep, Howe's true colors were shown. His men, with no warnings, no chance to run, were slaughtering Highever's people just as the sun was starting to rise. In all the chaos, Fergus's son, his wife, were slain. And even with Lucius' own efforts to attempt to save as many as possible, his parents, the two individuals who put so much effort into the young lad, they were stolen from Lucius. Even his own parents didn't survive the massacre. Now in flames, Highever's remaining population was now Howe's, Lucius too weak to challenge the old man.
As a result, only Duncan and Lucius were able to survive the vicious attack, fleeing all the way to Ostagar, the old fortress in the Korcari Wilds. It was also where a few thousand Grey Wardens, King Cailan, Loghain Mac Tir, and Ferelden's forces were all taking refuge. Apparently, this is where the Wardens were planning on facing the Darkspawn's assault. They were going to attempt to vanquish the Darkspawn in a single night, ensuring the Blight wasn't even going to get a chance.
With Fergus still missing, Lucius saw only one choice remaining. He was going to join the Wardens. And, should the opportunity come, make sure the treacherous filth, Rendon Howe went to the Darkspawn's jaws. While awaiting the moment where the new recruits must endure the Joining, the initiation one must venture through to make it into the Wardens, Lucius found two very interesting individuals. A Grey Warden, Alistair, whose charming personality immediately got to Lucius, along with Morrigan, an illegal Mage, which some would call an Apostate. Despite this woman living out in the Korcari Wilds, which was quite the unforgiving environment, she was stunning to say the least. Lucius didn't meet too many women in his time. Lucius wasn't given much time to speak with Morrigan. There was still the Joining ritual to get through.
The Joining would come to change Lucius in more ways than most common people thought was possible. He was given the ability to sense Darkspawn. Hopefully soon Lucius was going to find the chance to utilize this new skill. And this time, the chance was given
King Cailan, as well as his forces, the valiant Grey Wardens, everyone, they were all ready to face the Darkspawn's all out assault on Ostagar's open walls. Of course, eagerness isn't going to win a fight on its own. Were things to change to where the Wardens might not pull through, Loghain was to send in his own forces to assist the Wardens and the King.
Why was Cailan all too willing to accept a strategy like this? There were just too many flaws, so many things that, assuming the worst, were going to ensure the Darkspawn's victory. Even so, Loghain wasn't going to refuse a King's orders. Not these orders anyway.
Despite no previous military experience, Lucius also thought the strategy was a little too optimistic, seemingly avoiding all realism. It was like all Cailan was looking to achieve was personal glory. Unlike with Loghain, who was clearly the most wise strategist serving in the King's forces, Lucius chose to conceal his opposing views. But Loghain was quite verbal about his own resentments.
Just as Lucius was about to get ready to charge alongside his new Grey Warden allies, Duncan gave the new Warden some unfortunate news. He, as well as Alistair were not going to ride alongside the vanguard to engage the Darkspawn in the initial attack. According to Duncan, lighting a signal was vastly more important. Well... it was, actually. Not that it meant much to Lucius, who was looking to slice some Darkspawn into pieces.
The signal was meant to tell Loghain when it was time to send in his own forces to charge into the Darkspawn wave to assist Cailan and the Wardens, which, according to Cailan's words, "Will vanquish the few remaining Darkspawn." This was the King's way to ensure a glorious victory.
But the approaching outcome was going to allow no victories, no glorious soldiers escaping the fields to tell commoners about the compassionate struggle they went to face alongside the Grey Wardens. Unless one counts all the various Darkspawn, no one was getting anything special on this awful night.
Loghain, certain that sending in his own forces to save the Wardens, to save his own King, would only leave Ferelden without the forces necessary to fight against the Darkspawn, chose to abandon the mission as soon as the opening was made, leaving the few remaining Wardens to fight the Darkspawn alone.
When the fighting eventually came to its conclusion, it was as though all Grey Warden's in Ferelden were now gone. Cailan's own men, what little were still alive, were now fleeing from the victorious Darkspawn, the Darkspawn's own vanguard in pursuit, not wanting anyone to spread the news that the Blight was soon going to spread all the way across Ferelden.
Despite these numerous losses, including Duncan and King Cailan, victory, as seemingly impossible as it was, was still achievable through two Grey Wardens. Lucius, with his fellow Grey Warden Alistair, awoke within the Kocari Wilds.
The same female Apostate the two Wardens spoke to while searching the Wilds, Morrigan, was, as she was constantly reminding the two men, able to rescue them with ease. Morrigan spun this unbelievable tale where she was apparently able to accumulate enough "Demonic Energy", to where she was able to momentarily transform into a literal Dragon, carrying the two men away from the persistent Darkspawn, who, seeing Morrigan's new form, chose to exercise caution, not giving chase.
Several nights came to pass. During that time, Lucius, with his two companions, thought there was still enough time to save Ferelden. Warfare against the Blight, throughout the Grey Warden's existence has always... come with a few complications. But really, comparing this situation to the previous Blights, things were way worse in those times, which, to Lucius, didn't sound possible.
Even with all the negatives surrounding them, the Wardens, Morrigan now joining them unofficially, were starting to formulate a possible counterattack. But there was just one immediate problem to face. With Duncan gone, there was no one to take charge. And it wasn't like there more Grey Wardens in Ferelden, not counting the possible reinforcements in Weisshaupt Fortress, which, given its location, was no option. With Alistair's support, Lucius was the one to take charge.
He was going to stop this Blight? He was going to vanquish the Darkspawn, force them into the Deep Roads? He... was going to slay the Archdemon? Those were just the main requirements to lead the Grey Wardens. And Lucius... was going to meet them all.
With the opening in the leadership position gone, the three Wardens set out to accomplish the first task. Accumulating more forces, as there was no way to challenge the Darkspawn without a force to rival even Orlais. Without those numbers, Ferelden wasn't going to last even a week.
Eventually, with more resources found while scavenging around the Kocari Wilds, the Wardens set out, intent on gathering enough forces to annihilate the all Darkspawn in Ferelden. First thing was first, making it to Redcliffe, which, assuming the Darkspawn were not already razing the village, is where the Wardens were going to find some significant forces to join them.
Lucius, with his new Grey Warden senses, was able to successfully guide his fellow Wardens past the Darkspawn, avoiding open conflict, at least until the time was right to face them. With his small team now in Redcliffe, where the Arl, who, according to Alistair's mumblings, was essentially his own family, was willing to lend the Warden's his own forces to fight against the Darkspawn.
As the Wardens were about to step into the village, some even more important information was, unwillingly, given. Of all people, it was Alistair who was next in line to assume Ferelden's throne. Alistair, with his most private secret now out there, was able to speculate that Lucius was going to mention the topic several times in the future. Right now though, it was time to speak with the Arl. More importantly, ensuring his support.
Of course, given the Maker's cruelty, complications were starting to arise. And these complications, needless to say, were quite serious. As though the Darkspawn weren't enough, there was now some undead force marching towards Redcliffe. And, according to all the panicking citizens running around the town, it was going to massacre every last person in Redcliffe. The town was in luck though, as Lucius wasn't going to just let so many innocents perish.
Lucius spent several minutes invigorating Redcliffe's men with speeches, training more in his own rogue fighting styles, convincing Morrigan to cast amplification spells on even more, not that it was Morrigan's own idea, as she thought the spells were just wasting energy on less important people. As his last act, Lucius was able to convince several mercenaries to join the fight. Though, obtaining this additional support was certainly no inexpensive experience.
Thanks to the Warden's assistance, the evil force was slain in a single night. But it was in no way an easy fight. Many soldiers were not so lucky to survive through the vicious assault. And Lucius, on the inside, took several minutes to mourn them all, feeling it was his own fault. Lucius' thoughts were repeating themselves. That it was foolish not to take more time to prepare Redcliffe to face the attack. If more risks on his own part were taken, more people would've made it through. But through it all, even with these losses, Redcliffe, with a few extra scratches, was still standing.
Once Redcliffe's forces were ready to face the Darkspawn, the Warden's adventure across Ferelden was ready to continue. And it was the greatest experience one was able to live through. Lucius was getting the chance to venture to every single place Bryce always read about in those stories. First thing was first, the Wardens were marching straight to the Circle Of Magi, seeking to recruit the Mages.
Lucius, as much as everyone else in Ferelden and Orlais was, were able to recognize that, even though they weren't all evil, every single Mage maintains access to powers that, should the Circle not lock away, could very well annihilate Thedas as a whole. Despite the possible threats they were, Lucius was going to require every last available Mage when the time came.
Morrigan, who was, as she put, "seeking some alone time", chose to remain in the Redcliffe village, promising to reunite as soon as possible. It wasn't like she was going inside the Circle anyway, seeing as the Templars, who constantly watch the Mages every move were more than likely to notice she was an Apostate. A situation like that, it was something to avoid.
Luckily, Lucius was not going to require Morrigan's presence to recruit the Mages. In fact, the Wardens were able to recruit several more companions as they were venturing towards the Circle. They too were, slowly, constructing visible relationships with Warden Lucius.
The first the Wardens came across was Shale, a Golem who was given to the Wardens when they were successfully able to save Honnleath, a small remote village close to Redcliffe, from a small scale Darkspawn attack. It was quite the strange reward, not that Lucius was going to refuse something so useful. Shale even came with a controlling stick, which was meant to allow the Wardens to completely control Shale.
But the contraption was not working as it was meat to. Which, in turn, essentially gave Shale freedom. But even with the ability to leave, Shale, lacking real purpose, was still willing to accompany Lucius on his mission to save Ferelden. Eventually, Shale and Lucius were able to get along quite well, even with Shale's complications adjusting to... people.
The 2nd new companion was Leliana, the Orlesian Bard who the Wardens came across while making a stop in Lothering, a village which the Blight was already making its way towards. In fact, the situation in Lothering was so awful that as soon as Lucius made it inside the town, there were already 15 individuals attempting to claim the price on all surviving Wardens, obviously including Lucius. Apparently Loghain didn't want anyone spreading factual information concerning King Cailan's true fate. But that wasn't going to stop Lucius, who, with Shale at his side, took out every last criminal in Lothering.
Once they actually found Leliana, she was quick to explain that it was at the Maker's request that she accompany the Wardens to fight the Darkspawn. Lucius, who was a little weary, was willing to accept Leliana's... possibly the Maker's, request. Before they left Lothering, Lucius spent some time aiding the townspeople in all ways possible. But unlike with Redcliffe, there was simply no way to save this village, its fate was unchangeable, already set in stone, the Darkspawn were coming. All the same, there was no good reason not to aid the citizens. Lucius spent time setting explosive traps on Lothering's outskirts, which would provide more time to soldiers to evacuate people. He spoke with a few traders, convincing them to sell supplies at more reasonable prices, allowing more people to gain access to medicine. As his last generous act, Lucius spent roughly thirty minutes eliminating every last possible threat in Lothering. Including wild grizzlies, giant spiders, as well as a few remaining raiders. As the Wardens were leaving, all townspeople gave thanks to the trio. It was unlikely the village was going to make it through the Blight. But at least now more people were going to escape alive.
The last companion Lucius was going to accidentally recruit, at least until obtaining the Mage's support, was Zevran, an Elven Assassin who was actually given quite the impossible targets. The remaining Wardens in Ferelden. It's appropriate to label this as impossible chore, as this includes Lucius.
As soon as Zevran, with his own forces following close, were able to successfully ambush the Wardens, Zevran was almost instantly put asleep from a special Shale punch to the ribs. The assassin was then forcefully awoken, Lucius requiring some answers. Zevran was more than willing to reveal all sensitive information concerning his employers. Just as Lucius thought, it was Loghain who was the one willing to pay Zevran and his team to remove the Wardens from the picture, still not wanting every single truth out there in the open.
Lucius was, obviously, not so sure about placing genuine trust in Zevran. He was willing to ignore his contract, instead opting to join the Wardens, so long as they were in turn willing to show just a little mercy. But to Lucius, Zevran was just some mercenary with little to no responsibilities. He was someone who was okay with massacring an entire town's population so long as the payment was generous enough. Really, Zevran, Lucius, they were exact opposites. But it is a common saying that opposites attract. As the Wardens were closing in on the Circle, Blight Wolves met them on the roads. And this is where Lucius' companionship with Zevran was going to grow surprisingly quickly.
Zevran, one who, according to his own accounts, always shows true courage, was ready to charge straight towards the wolves just to save Lucius, who, with so many wolves attacking his position at once, was in quite the awful situation. With Shale's strength ensuring that no Blight Wolves would escape alive, everyone else was able to take the time to relax, Leliana tending to Alistair's wounds. Lucius, with appreciation in his eyes, gave Zevran some old Dalish Gloves Leliana came across while ransacking a raider's corpse. The gloves meant quite a lot to Zevran. It was at that point Lucius was certain who his greatest companion now was.
Enduring several more Darkspawn encounters, which were relatively easy to negate, even with the Darkspawn's impressive numbers, the Wardens, with time to spare, made it to the Circle. Lucius' thoughts immediately went to the stories concerning the Circle. There was so much ancient lore surrounding the Circle.
He was fearful, a rare occurrence. But there's the thing about legends. Even with the endless obstacles they face, legends will slam straight through these obstacles, running the whole time straight towards the goals they fight to achieve.
And in this case, running was going to take a long time. Once inside the Circle, Lucius came to realize all his extreme weariness towards Mages was now completely justifiable. Blood Mages who were through with the Circle's ways, were using all available magical abilities to cause to chaos flow through the entire Circle, even taking the time to summon Abominations, Desire Demons, along with even more Demonic monstrosities.
Knight Greagoir, who was commanding the Templars within Ferelden's Circle, was quick to inform the Wardens there was little chance they were going to get the Mage's on his side. The Templars were soon going to receive the Annulment Right. The right allows the Templars to purge every Mage within the Circle, no exceptions.
This was obviously not something Lucius was in a position to allow. He was personally going to send every last Abomination plaguing the Circle straight into the Fade so long as the chance to obtain the Mages was still on the table. Thus, Lucius, Alistair, Zevran, and Leliana were all marching into the Circle with a single objective, rescue the Mages while there was still time. But like with Redcliffe, the situation as a whole was about to take a negative turn.
Running into a new Mage, Wynne, who Lucius actually spoke to while investigating Ostagar's training grounds, the Wardens were told that the eldest Mage Irving, who was essentially the Mage in charge, along with even more important leading Mage figures were all currently at the Blood Mage's mercy.
The Wardens, now with Wynne's assistance, were able to easily eradicate all Abominations foolish enough to engage them. Given the Circle's strong attachment to the Fade, Lucius was expecting to find more powerful foes. But so long as they were moving towards the Blood Mages, Lucius wasn't going to complain.
Continuing to traverse the Circle's many rooms, the Wardens eventually came across a Desire Demon, who, with seduction powers, was influencing a single Templar's thoughts, making the man think the Demon was actually his wife.
The Desire Demon was quite forthcoming, telling the Wardens with enough time, the charms she was spreading across the man's conciousness were going to completely eradicate... well, everything. And the Demon made it obvious she wasn't going to cease with the charming. As a Demon, she was eventually going to require a new man to slowly feed on. Healthy relationship? Not really.
But even so, Zevran, Lucius, even Leliana, to them it made sense to allow the Desire Demon to escape. Who were they to ruin this relationship? Well... technically it was a relationship. As they were leaving the Demon to its subject, Lucius thought about the choice some more, slightly regretting his willingness to show mercy to a Demon.
Moving on to the next area, which is where they were able to rescue several more Mages, including a single Tranquil Mage who gave the Wardens access to the various storage rooms across the Circle, the team came across the last Abomination plaguing the Circle.
But this Abomination was... unique, needless to say. With a few menacing words, it sent the small force into the Fade, where Lucius, not one to change, immediately found some trouble to get into. There is little to no lore that contains information concerning the events that went on while the legends were inside the Fade. Perhaps the Warden was unlucky enough to stumble across something truly traumatizing? Perhaps Lucius simply lost his memories concerning his time spent in the Fade, now unable to share them with his people? One thing everyone must accept is this. Some stories, they should remain untold.
Against all odds, the Wardens were able to escape the Fade in record time, considering the situation they were in. It was also surprisingly easy to slay the Sloth Abomination that made them prisoners. Once they were out, it was time to finish the remaining Blood Mages. A few minutes pass, and the Wardens were now able to focus on reaching Irving. But as the Wardens were about to charge into a new fight, they came across the only surviving Templar, not counting the ones outside the Great Halls.
It was a young recruit, his title Cullen. Cullen was quick to give the Wardens some advice. Kill all the Mages, don't risk anyone getting out! While these are not the exact words Cullen spoke, they are enough to set the stage.
Lucius told Cullen the Wardens were going to require the Mage's support should they wish to stand a chance in a fight against the Darkspawn. Cullen immediately took his chance to interject, telling Lucius that the Templars, who, unlike the Mages, were in peak shape, able to provide the Wardens with a generous Lyrium source, as well as twice the numbers the Mages were able to provide. Lucius would receive these forces, so long as one condition was met. Kill the remaining Mages waiting upstairs.
Despite the obvious issues with this idea, Lucius, wanting to give the Warden's as much support as possible, was willing to accept Cullen's exchange. But not everyone else was so willing to watch potentially innocent Mages suffering from other's consequences. There was absolutely no way Wynne was going to allow the remaining mages, as well as Irving, to face unjust executions. Lucius, given the little time they spent in the Fade, sought a peaceful solution with Wynne. He made three separate attempts to get Wynne to simply walk away, continue living. But in the end, the Warden's were given no choice. Wynne, wanting to protect the innocent, fought valiantly until Lucius made the ending connection with his weapon. No one saw the Warden's face. But his companions were certain that there tears covering it in those few moments as reality set in.
Hours came to pass. During that entire time, Lucius personally saw to gathering every remaining Mage to... cleanse the Circle. Alistair, especially given the situation with Wynne, losing a friend like that, was feeling extra shameful today. Not since losing the King, his forces, and Duncan, not since losing everything... it was all just starting to feel so unnaturally awful. To assist in such a unforgiving massacre... maybe it was a good thing Duncan was gone. Unlike his Warden companion, Lucius was able to see that this situation as one that went well with the Grey Warden's most important rule... Cost is not a concern when looking to find victory.
With all possible Blood Mages a concern no more, the Wardens were quick to return to the Knight Commander's side, seeking to leave the Circle as soon as possible. Lucius made sure to speak clearly. Luckily, just as Cullen spoke about, the Templars, with no Mages to watch, were willing to partake in the Warden's fight against the Darkspawn. This was fantastic progress, considering all previous events. But still, this was only a single faction. Lucius took a look at the Grey Warden treaties once more. The Dalish and Dwarven forces were still available. And still necessary to Ferelden's survival.
Many like to assume the only reason Lucius went through with slaughtering every last Mage was his genuine concern that there were Blood Mages still amongst them. Blood Mages who, should they manage to escape the Circle, would take the chance to spread chaos across Ferelden. But eventually, the actual reason made it to the public papers. Lucius, in an interview, would confess that, it was the Templar's promise which was able to sway his thoughts.
The next location the Wardens were aiming towards was the Urn Of Sacred Ashes. Now, one might think to themselves, "What is the Urn Of Sacred Ashes? Why is Lucius wasting precious time attempting to locate it? Well, the explanation is as follows. The Urn is where Andraste's ashes lie. The ashes are able to perform the impossible, reviving anyone, from anything. Taking the ashes grants anyone a new chance.
Why were the Wardens trying to locate these ashes? It's simple. As spoken about previously multiple times, the Warden's were going to require the Arl's support. His military was awaiting orders, ready to leave Redcliffe as soon as the orders were given. But unless the Wardens were able to retrieve the ashes, which would allow them to cure the Arl's worsening illness, there were no political allies to publicly side with the Wardens against Loghain.
Thus, the Wardens were marching towards the mountains where the Urn was supposedly resting. Along the way, Morrigan ran into them, telling them she was ready to continue the mission. Where she actually was in all that time was a complete mystery to all fellow Wardens.
Lucius gave Morrigan Wynne's incredibly versatile weapon, seeing as the old Mage wasn't going to use it anymore. Now the Wardens were ready to march to the mountains. The very, very cold mountains. Luckily Morrigan was able to cast a few fire spells, ensuring no one was getting frostbite.
It certainly wasn't the easy walk like getting to Redcliffe was. Firstly, it was as freezing as freezing gets. To Morrigan, it was nearly unbearable. Two, a village the Wardens were attempting to rest at was actually sheltering multiple cultists. And these cultists were extremely persistent in not allowing Lucius and his Warden companions to reach the mountains. But these villagers clearly were not given professional training.
Taking some supplies from the now empty village, the Wardens were continuing the long walk towards the sanctum. When the Wardens were finally able to reach the sanctum, it was, just like the village, sheltering even more cultists. But unlike the villagers, these cultists were using weapons effectively. Still, all fights were ending the exact same way, cultists simply wasting themselves in what was essentially a suicide attack.
Eventually, the cultists were starting to realize there was quite literally no way to stop the Wardens through force. And so, though it wasn't exactly a steady relationship, a truce was made. In exchange, the man leading the cultist forces, Kolgrim, was willing to tell Lucius why his people were taking refuge within the sanctum. Because... Andraste... was... a Dragon.
Yes... this was actually the reason as to why the cultists were infesting the mountains. Unfortunately, it's also why they were slaughtering anyone who was even a little too close to reaching the sanctum. But yes, in these fanatic's minds, Andraste was reborn as a mighty Dragon.
According to Kolgrim, his people were actually looking to use the Dragon's Blood, preparing to mix it into the Sacred Ashes. This was to ensure who Andraste once was was completely lost. To the cultists, this was the most important step in Ferelden regaining the woman who spoke the Maker's words. But to the Wardens, this was something to question. Tainting the Sacred Ashes? Destroying its magical properties? Lucius wasn't going to allow this. He was now ready to continue the onslaught against the cultists. But then Kolgrim gave the Wardens a few additional promises to ensure the truce.
As long as the Wardens made good on tainting the Sacred Ashes, Andraste, the Dragon one, was going to generously provide Lucius with several new abilities. These abilities were going to allow the Wardens, mainly Lucius, to fight against the Darkspawn more efficiently. Leliana, who, even though Lothering was now long gone, was still technically serving the Chantry, thus Andraste, was absolutely unwilling to tolerate Kolgrim's plans.
Lucius gave everything to convince Leliana the Wardens were going to need to utilize every single advantage possible. With no one to stop them, the Darkspawn were just going to eradicate the sanctum regardless, maybe tainting Andraste's Ashes in the process. But Lucius' words weren't getting through. Leliana simply wasn't going along with tainting the ashes. When the Wardens were attempting to move forward anyway, Leliana was outright threatening them with violence.
Despite all the resistance, Lucius was able to convince Leliana to return to the village with the others. Lucius was going to secure Andraste's Ashes on his own, as, according to Kolgrim, this was a single man operation.
As she was leaving, Leliana told Lucius she wasn't turning on them, not foolish enough to think she was able to match the Wardens. And while she was going to continue to support the Warden's fight against the Darkspawn, she and Lucius, were, starting now, not on peaceful terms.
This wasn't the greatest concern to Lucius, so long as Leliana was continuing to fight the Darkspawn. Upon reaching Andraste's memorial, Lucius was met with the strangest ambush possible, when a Dragon, who, according to Kolgrim, was Andraste in physical form, was seen flying closely above. Kolgrim, who was acting as Lucius' guide, was seen smirking at Lucius' reaction. It was truly a stunning sight, as most Dragons are long gone from Thedas.
One question still floats across Ferelden. Did Lucius genuinely think this same Dragon was actually Andraste? Aside from his time in the Fade, this is one topic Lucius refuses to speak about. Doesn't really change anything, no? As soon as his fellow Wardens made it to the village, Lucius was already contaminating the Sacred Ashes.
Luckily, Lucius wasn't some moron. He was sure to capture some ashes. Ensuring the Arl's survival was still a necessity. Once Kolgrim, who, even though the promise was not mate, was willing to also join the fight against the Darkspawn, gave Lucius his powers, his fellow cultists were ready to return to the village, Lucius following closely. With the new resources to assist the Wardens, Lucius was now certain the correct choice was made. Now it was time to return to Redcliffe.
Redcliffe's people were all smiling upon seeing the Wardens all in one piece. Before long, Arl Eamon was awake. And just like everyone else, Eamon was ready to stop the Blight. But there was still one obvious issue. And unless to issue was given correction, Ferelden wasn't going to survive the approaching Darkspawn waves. Loghain was still out there, still spreading his lies concerning the Warden's loyalty.
Diplomatically, through violence, the Wardens were going to stop Loghain. Approaches aside, there still weren't enough forces on the Warden's side to create the struggle necessary to challenge Loghain, especially not the Darkspawn themselves. So, with little options, the Wardens were going to continue the recruitment operations. And the Wardens next possible allies were in... Orzammar.
Needless to say, Lucius was all to ready to charge straight into the underground Dwarven Kingdom. Humans were rarely given the opportunity to explore the only remaining Dwarven Kingdom. Dwarves were not ones to allow outsiders in so willingly. Lucius wasn't going to waste this chance.
During the single night Lucius spent in Orzammar, Lucius was able to change so many things in so little time. Lucius was able to stop thieves from stealing several Dwarven Noble's riches. Morrigan's own skills revolving Herbalism made sure a female Noble suffering from poisonous effects was going to survive. And, with his charms, Lucius was able to increase the Lyrium trade with the Circle.
But those were all just small actions. Choosing a new Dwarven King, that was something. As to why the Dwarves were awaiting a new King, is a lengthy tale. The Kingdom was facing more problems, not just the Darkspawn plaguing the Deep Roads. The old King was now with the Stone, which is a Dwarven way to say they're gone. The two men looking to replace the King were Lord Harrowmont, a more conservative man who, to the Wardens, was the more professional candidate. Then there was Prince Bhelen, the King's only remaining son.
Bhelen's morality was something to question. He was a man looking to possess all possible powers. But even with all his negative personality traits, Bhelen was quite the reformist, especially considering Orzammar's previous standards. The Wardens were certain Bhelen's inventive ideas were enough to lead his Kingdom to greatness.
Ensuring Bhelen was Orzammar's future King was no easy task. There were even multiple occasions where the Wardens came close to joining the Darkspawn's numbers. But even so, there were certainly more positive than negatives.
While getting ready to travel into the Deep Roads, Lucius came across a Dwarven man, Oghren. The Wardens were actually meant so speak with Oghren anyway, as Oghren was supposedly able to assist in them in locating Branka, a Paragon whose influence was enough to ensure Bhelen made it on the throne.
Oghren was quite the impressive serviceman. Sure, there were a few issues with his personality, especially when some intoxicants made it into Oghren's palms. He was also always causing more trouble... and Lucius was loving it. Comedic relief was always nice. As soon as the new team was able to leave, the Wardens set out into the Deep Roads, Oghren leading them to Branka's possible location.
Along the way, Darkspawn were launching vicious assaults. These attacks came every few minutes. Lucius was expecting to face several Darkspawn along the way. But these numbers were something else. The Wardens were even unlucky enough to stumble across the Archdemon, the Dragon leading the Darkspawn forces. The Wardens were in no position to fight the Archdemon.
Now, unfortunately, we are unable to continue with Lucius' adventures as a Grey Warden recruit, not at this time anyway. When we continue, Lucius with stumble across Branka, more sentient golems, choose Orzammar's King, and make his way to the Brecilian Forrest to unravel even more legends. Right now, we will move to the point where Warden Lucius starts his newest adventure, in the Mojave.
ONE YEAR IN THE FUTURE: The Warden, Anders, Sigrun, and Nathaniel, who were all covered in Darkspawn gore were finally able to kill the Broodmother. And they did it without the Architect, who was killed only a few moments prior to engaging the Broodmother.
Killing the Architect wasn't the right choice to make, at least in Nathaniel's eyes. He only agreed to go along with the idea thanks to the fact that the Warden was always kind and would listen to his other advice on separate occasions. With no further reason to stay in the nest, the Warden and his companions ventured out into Amaranthine.
The gorgeous sky was a nice change in scenery. Plus, the oxygen... well there was actually oxygen. "Well... that was fun." The Warden said as the sunlight connected with his face. "Though, things would've moved a lot quicker if one of us used his sword instead-" Nathaniel's eyes narrowed and his arms crossed. The frown on his face made the Warden laugh. "Relax, I'm only joking, Nathaniel." He sighed. "Still, I wish Loghain was there with us. He would've had a great time."
Instead Loghain was made to travel to Orlais, even with all his protesting. Sure, Loghain was once his greatest foe. He was also quite the asshole. But now Lucius saw Loghain as his favorite companion. Sadly, Lucius' words only meant so much in Orlais.
Anders, the Arcane Warrior and secret Blood Mage, joined in on the laughing. "You know what I just realized?" His attention was focused on Nathaniel and the Warden. "You've made friends with your enemies three times now. First Loghain, then Nathaniel, and I guess you could count that one talking Darkspawn you let go."
The Warden resumed his own laughing. Nathaniel gave a few chuckles. "What can I say, I am one charismatic guy." He proclaimed, no one able to argue with the truth. "I could probably even talk Alistair into marrying Anora. Oh, wait a minute..." The Grey Wardens quickly went back to their cackling.
Sigrun coughed to gather everyone's attention. "You guys remember Vigil's Keep, right?" She pointed out, causing everyone's eyes to widen. "Even with everyone there, there is a good chance they can't keep away that many Darkspawn." Anders and Nathaniel looked to the Warden, seeking orders.
"Right." He said, a look of stupidity on his face. He let something so important escape his mind, why? "Sigrun's correct. Even with Justice leading them, we need to reach them as soon as possible." The Warden equipped Duncan's Dagger. "Follow my lead. Let's kill any Darkspawn we see. Oh, unless they talk."
It took more time than they would've liked. However, the Warden and his team eventually returned to Vigil's Keep. However, they quickly realized it was unnecessary. The Dwarven walls and soldiers outfitted in Silverite made the Keep a force to reckon with.
When they arrived, the Warden and his companions stumbled across more Darkspawn corpses than anyone had seen even at Denerim. Though, that wasn't enough for them to completely relax. They wanted to see their friends. Luckily, there was only one casualty. It was Justice who fell.
The Warden and Anders chose to believe that Justice lost his life, or his method or transportation, saving his fellow men and taking several Darkspawn with him. They soon learned that the theory was correct and then some. That was enough to set everyone at ease.
Days passed, and soon most of the Darkspawn was cleared away from the Keep, with the exception of a few Ogres. The news of the Darkspawn retreating into the Deep Roads soon reached the Warden and the rest of the Keep. With all of that out of the way, the routine celebration commenced. It was classic. Drinking games, wenches, and everything else a man needs were all available. The Warden chose not to participate. He needed to plan ahead for his next journey.
Nathaniel approached the Warden, spotting him sitting at a table in solitude. "Look who it is." Nathaniel said, getting the Warden to smile. "Get out there, will you? Some of the girls are talking about you." The Warden's eyes widened. "Maybe you should go and take a-"
Slowly standing out of his chair and finishing his liquor, the Warden refused the generous offer. "No thanks." He said. The Warden gave a friendly wave to the group of girls who were all waiting for him to approach them. He preferred to remain on his own.
Nathaniel looked relatively confused. "I thought you loved celebrating?" He asked, spilling a small portion of his liquor as his cup waved around. "What about after you killed the Archdemon? You told me you and this one girl, what was their name..."
The Warden chuckled. "Her name was Morrigan." He said, signalling for someone to refill his cup. "After this is all over, I'm going to find Morrigan again. Even if I made a promise I wouldn't." He took a sip of his now full cup. "I'll leave in a week or so. I need to gather supplies and my Mabari first."
Oghren quickly rushed over. "What!" He shouted, shocked at what the Warden had just said. "You mean to tell me that even after all of that, you still want to go after that crazy..." Oghren slowly silenced himself, noticing the Warden's glare. "Um, Morrigan. But still, why?"
The Warden shrugged. "Guess I still love 'er." He admitted with no amount of shame in his voice. He passed the cup to Oghren. "I think I'll go through with this on my own. This is something only I can-" The Warden's words were silenced when the Keep's main entrance slammed open.
It was Loghain. He was covered in blood, not any belonging to any Darkspawn. From the look of him, Loghain wasn't in good shape. Releasing a few coughs, Loghain slowly limped his way over to the Warden's table. Many were too startled to go and assist him in walking.
Finally, the Warden stood up and grabbed Loghain in case his fellow Grey Warden was ready to collapse. "Outside... look." Anders ran over and took over with Loghain. Luckily Anders practiced in the art of Spirit Healing. While Loghain was taken care of, the Warden rushed outside to see what was wrong.
As soon as the Warden stepped outside, creatures, ones that never met his gaze prior to this moment, charged straight at him. Instead of swords and/or shields, they were carrying what appeared to be wooden slabs. The creature charging at him was clearly no Darkspawn. If it was it wasn't any kind the Warden had seen.
Ducking as the creature attacked him, the Warden grabbed took Duncan's Dagger and shoved it into to creature's eye, piercing its skull and killing it in a matter of seconds. He scanned the area to make sure there weren't anymore of them. He spotted a few collapsed on the ground, most likely Loghain was the one to kill them.
After concluding all his enemies were slain, Lucius made a new observation. The sky was looking a lot more ominous when comparing to it a few minutes ago. In fact, the scenery around Vigil's Keep appeared to change as a whole. "Anders." The Warden called out to his friend. "Tell Nathaniel and Sigrun to come outside. And make sure Loghain stays awake. Someone needs to give us some answers."
Nathaniel eventually came charging outside. "Lucius, Anders came in yelling! You require me?" Nathaniel's eyes were already locking on to the new creatures as the words were leaving his lips. "By Andraste's grace!" He exclaimed while awaiting Sigrun's own arrival. His eyes then made it to the sky. "What is going on with the sky? It seems... it seems a whole lot more... evil than it usually is." Lucius and the others were agreeable.
Lucius, with no caution, was observing the strange new creature, leaning in close to its face. It was green, uncomfortably sinewy, its smell was even worse than the average Hurlock's. Most notably, like some Darkspawn variants, this creature was closely resembling the average person.
Lucius only just now fought these creatures, so there was only a single conclusion to make. This was a new Darkspawn variation. And like all Darkspawn, these ones were looking to face the Wardens. Maybe they were even looking to avenge the Architect?
Just as Sigrun was pacing outside, a mysterious explosion was erupting a few miles to the East. In that single moment, the Wardens were all in awe. To Lucius, the following shockwave following the explosion was even more compelling than the Archdemon's. "So," Sigrun spoke while awaiting Lucius' orders. "Guessing there's no time to catch a few winks?" Annoyances were still following Lucius everywhere.