Chapter 41: Fateful Convergence
12th of Firstfall, 9:45 Dragon/ 12th of Sun's Dusk, 305 4E
Months had passed since the devastating destruction of Par Vollen, a cataclysmic event that sent shockwaves throughout Thedas. News of the city's fall spread like wildfire, reaching every corner of the continent. Panic and despair gripped the hearts of people, for if the Empire could conquer the once impregnable island of the Qunari, what hope remained for the rest of Thedas?
In the wake of the tragedy, fear rippled across the land, and a palpable tension settled over every kingdom and city. People whispered in hushed tones, their voices laden with uncertainty and apprehension. Rumors swirled, tales of the Empire's seemingly unstoppable march, of its relentless conquest that left no stone unturned.
As the Empire's forces advanced, the Thedosian alliance found itself in a desperate retreat, slowly but steadily withdrawing to the sanctuary of Minrathous. Hope waned with each passing day, as the once-mighty alliance crumbled under constant battles and dwindling resources. The people felt the weight of impending doom, their spirits sinking with every loss and setback.
The dwarves, masters of stone and the Deep Roads, remained steadfast in neutrality. Unwilling to involve themselves in the conflicts of the surface world, they focused on fortifying their defenses and safeguarding their underground realm from any potential threat that might emerge from the chaos above.
Similarly, the nation of the Anderfels, known for its devout adherence to the Chantry and its fierce Grey Warden presence, chose neutrality. The Grey Wardens, aware of the Empire's formidable might and fearing the potential annihilation of their order, overrode the Anderfel king's desire to join the Thedosian alliance.
As the Thedosian alliance withered and fractured, the Empire's forces strengthened. Reinforcements from the heart of the Empire arrived, bolstering their ranks with fresh soldiers, skilled mages, and fearsome beasts that defied imagination. The unified might of the Empire, now bolstered by the alliance with the elves, presented an almost insurmountable challenge for the defenders of Minrathous.
And so, the time had come once again. Just as before with the Qunari, Exalted March, and the Blight, the war had come to Minrathous. The city's defenders brace themselves for an onslaught like never before, as the combined forces of the Empire and the elven warriors advanced upon the great city. None have ever taken the city but with all of Thedas now fallen, it seemed luck had run dry. The weary defenders, magical defenses, golems, everything the city had now was the last bastion of hope of a free Thedas against the overwhelming tide of Imperial conquest.
As the dark clouds loomed overhead, the Empire's massive galleons emerged on the horizon, their cannons primed for destruction. With a thunderous roar, the bombardment began, their cannonballs tearing through the Thedosian alliance's navy like a force of nature. Splintered wood and burning debris scattered across the turbulent waters, leaving no doubt of the Empire's naval superiority.
However, within the city's formidable walls, the defenders stood resolute. The centuries-old fortifications withstood the relentless assault, their stone structure a testament to the city's enduring strength. The cannons' echoes reverberated against the unyielding ramparts, a defiant response to the Empire's aggression.
Minrathous, situated on an island, was a formidable fortress. A single bridge connected it to the mainland, and as the Empire's navy rained destruction from the sea, the Thedosian alliance executed a strategic move. Explosions shook the air as they destroyed the bridge, severing the only physical link to the city. With the bridge reduced to ruins, the defenders held an advantageous position, guarded by the treacherous waters that encircled them.
A shimmering magical barrier enveloped the city, pulsating with energy. The combined efforts of powerful mages and the city itself had erected this mystical shield, acting as an additional line of defense. It crackled and hummed with power, repelling the Empire's magical onslaught and providing a vital layer of protection to the city's defenders.
Standing at the entrance of the city were the towering golems, ancient guardians crafted with enchantments that made them nigh invulnerable. Each golem loomed like a mountain, their immense frames adorned with arcane symbols. Their eyes glowed with an otherworldly light, surveying the besieging forces with an unyielding gaze.
But the Empire was relentless. Trebuchets rumbled forward, their massive arms launching projectiles toward the magical barrier. Explosions erupted in dazzling displays of light as the barrier absorbed the impact, momentarily flickering with strain. Mages within the Empire's ranks hurled destructive spells, their magical assaults seeking weak points in the barrier's defenses. Dragons soared through the air, their mighty wings beating against the turbulent winds, spewing fire and unleashing devastation from above.
The defenders, fully aware of the imminent threat, rallied to defend their city. They unleashed their own barrage of spells, arrows, and siege weaponry, targeting the engineers and troops responsible for building a makeshift bridge over the treacherous waters. The engineers faced a perilous task, but their lives depended on creating a new path to the city, a way to replenish the dwindling supplies and reinforce their brethren.
Meanwhile, back at the Imperial forward siege camp, the new Commander of the Imperial forces, Celanya stood at the command tent. Before the Altmer laid a detailed map with strategic markings, depicting the layout of the city and the position of Thedosian and Imperial forces. Gathered around the table were several of her trusted generals, Tsrani, Gasred, and Antossia.
"That insipid barrier must come down as soon as possible along with the golems," Celanya spoke, her voice carrying the new authority she wielded. "General Tsrani, any progress on the underground passages?"
Tsrani's whiskers twitched as she replied. "Unfortunately, Commander, the passages have collapsed, making it nearly impossible for our forces to infiltrate the city from below. It will take time to clear the debris and create new access points."
Celanya's brow furrowed, contemplating the setback. "What about the barrier? Have the mages made any findings?" She turned to Gasred.
Gasred sighed, his voice filled with resignation. "The barrier is remarkably strong, Commander. Our mages believe that to dismantle it swiftly, we would need the direct intervention of the Emperor himself. At our current rate, it will be months before it is destroyed."
Antossia, known for her directness, interjected, her voice tinged with concern. "Where is the Emperor? Shouldn't he be here leading this assault?"
Celanya's expression hardened as she spoke. "The Emperor is preoccupied with another matter, General Antossia. For now, we must press on with the resources at our disposal."
Antossia nodded, her lips pursed with determination. "Very well, Commander. We shall continue to execute our plans as best we can. The Emperor's absence will not deter us from our goal."
Celanya nodded in agreement. "Indeed, General Antossia. We must adapt and overcome these obstacles. Tsrani, I want you to expedite the clearance of the underground passages. We will need them once they are accessible. Gasred, focus our siege weaponry on weakening the barrier as much as possible. Antossia, I want those bridges protected. Our soldiers will assault the city once the barrier is down."
"Yes, Commander," the generals nodded, their orders clear.
As they left for their duties, Commander Celanya was left alone for a moment of respite. However, her solitude was soon interrupted by the return of General Antossia.
"Commander," she began, her voice tinged with concern, "I couldn't help but wonder... what do you make of Commander Marius's demise?"
Celanya met Antossia's gaze, her expression unreadable. "The official account suggests that Qunari assassins were responsible for his death," she replied cautiously. "But as warriors, we know that truths can be shrouded in shadows."
Antossia's face tightened with a mix of sorrow and frustration. "Marius was a noble leader, dedicated to justice and the welfare of the innocent. His loss is deeply felt by our ranks. Yet to be felled by assassins, it's…"
Celanya's features hardened as she interrupted. "The Qunari are… were formidable opponents. I have no doubt they could do this. It was unwise for us to overestimate our abilities. We are not invincible as you may well know."
Antossia's eyes flickered with a hint of doubt, her voice laden with introspection. "But what if there is more to this than we realize? What if Marius's death is part of a greater scheme, one that we have yet to comprehend? Our loyalty to the Empire should not blind us to the possibility of darker forces at play."
Celanya's gaze bore into Antossia's, her voice firm but measured. "I understand your concerns, General. However, we cannot let doubt plague our minds especially now. We must do what we can and bring this siege to a quick. Marius's death will not be in vain and peace will be brought to Thedas."
Antossia's gaze wavered for a moment, conflicted emotions flickering across her face. "I... I trust your judgment, Commander. But let us not forget the value of compassion and humanity, even amidst the chaos of war."
Celanya nodded, acknowledging Antossia's words. "Yes, we must."
As the two generals concluded their dialogue, the tent's entrance parted to a messenger. "Commander Celanya," he said. "Urgent news for you."
Celanya nodded and silently gestured for Antossia to leave. "The reports from the other generals?" she asked in confirmation.
"Yes, Commander," the messenger stood at attention. "General Deezara stands ready with twenty legions in the Free Marches, General Heidkar with twenty-five in Orlais, General Elesse with twenty in the Dales, and General Lorshnag with twenty legions in Nevarra."
"And combined with the forces of our vassals in Ferelden, Antiva, and Rivain, we have six hundred thousand soldiers deployed on the entire continent," the Altmer finished reading with her usual stoic manner as if those numbers were normal. "All according to the Emperor's plans. You may go."
After telling the messenger to leave, Celanya followed out from the tent minutes later. Her gaze fixed upon the besieged city and her once-collected expression had transformed into one of frustration.
Unbeknownst to those around her, the message contained a secret message she alone could read. Its words were: Battlemage in the city, Hold until child and elvhen appear.
Within the besieged city of Minrathous, the Thedosian alliance fought with all determination in defense. Civilians and refugees that remained were left huddled in makeshift shelters, their expressions etched with fear and resilience, as the sounds of battle echoed through the air.
"Shore up the barrier on the southern walls!" a commanding voice bellowed.
"Archers, focus fire on those bridges!" another shouted.
The greatest defense the city held, its barriers, was a godsend, allowing unfettered barrages of arrows, bolts, artillery, and spellfire back at the enemy while being immune to another counterattack. Soldiers and civilians alike bore witness as the dragon's breath attacks spilled across the barrier like water and cannonballs merely bounced off. Yet even so, they knew they could not hold the barrier forever.
It was amidst this chaos that a heated argument erupted between General Varis, the Tevinter commander, and Commander Edward of the Inquisition. Varis, his face twisted with frustration, voiced his controversial proposal.
"We can use the slaves as human shields! They won't dare push an assault if means hurting them," the Tevene commander argued.
"Absolutely not!" Edward stood his ground, his gaze burning with indignation. "We're not using human shields. We're trying to protect Thedas, not destroy innocent lives."
"Our supply of lyrium is already dwindling and the barrier cannot stay forever. With the slaves in the way-"
"This is not just Tevinter's fight, General! It's everyones'. The Inquisitor won't allow it," the Commander argued.
"Hah, if that were true, where is your so-called leader?" Varis asked his expression a mixture of skepticism and frustration.
Edward hesitated for a moment, grappling with the difficulty of the situation. With a measured tone, he responded, "She is currently engaged in another part of the city, securing its defenses for our ultimate victory."
The Tevinter general scoffed back. "Of course, too busy to be seen for days except by you," he replied as he turned away. "Now, if you'll excuse me, Commander, my soldiers need someone to lead them."
Left alone within the confines of the alliance headquarters, Commander Edward's frustration lingered like a heavy fog, shrouding his thoughts. The Tevinter general's words had struck a nerve, casting a shadow of doubt upon his resolve. As the relentless bombardment against the magical barrier reverberated through the air, Edward's gaze instinctively lifted, drawn towards the high towers of the Circle of Magi in the heart of the besieged city.
The thunderous explosions against the barrier sent shockwaves through the ground, their tremors a stark reminder of the overwhelming forces arrayed against them. Edward's features tightened, his brows furrowing in concern as he contemplated the perilous nature of their situation. From his vantage point, the towers of the Circle of Magi stood tall, a symbol of power and potential salvation.
"I hope the Inquisitor knows what she is doing," Edward muttered, his words a mere whisper carried by the wind.
As Commander Edward's words faded into the air, the scene shifted to the Inquisitor herself, standing in the towering heights of a war-torn tower. Her gaze pierced through the window, capturing the relentless chaos unfolding below. The sight of the besieged city engulfed in a storm of destruction and despair etched a grim expression upon her features.
"I should be down there," she murmured. The weight of responsibility pressed upon her, urging her to descend into the fray, doing everything she can to lead her loyal soldiers in defense. Yet, a deeper understanding resonated within her, whispering of a grander plan, of sacrifices necessary for the greater good.
In that solemn moment, a familiar presence enveloped her senses. "Remember our purpose, Inquisitor," Mythal urged.
"I know," Evelyn said as she let out a sigh. "It doesn't make it easier though."
"No… it doesn't." Mythal lamented.
Just then as Evelyn was about to turn away from the window, a familiar voice approached from behind. "Inquisitor," it called, and she turned to find Hawke standing there. His eyes held a glimmer of hope as he continued. "I think we may have found what we need."
"Show me."
It was a week earlier, as Hawke and his group made their way back to the Inquisition. Barely they made it in time to see Evelyn and their faces bore the weight of recent revelations and trials, their expressions a mix of weariness and determination.
"You're back?!" Evelyn exclaimed with jubilation. "I- I can't believe it. I sent folk to find you when you hadn't talked back in so long, I-"
"We lost the Fea Opus," Hawke interrupted, his voice filled with a sense of urgency.
Evelyn now stood shaken, stepping back. "Lost?" she questioned as if though it were a lie. Yet a brief glance to Varric, the dwarf nodding, laced her with worry. "I see. Wait… where is that Marcus mage? Who are those two?"
As she pointed to Piven and Nivia, Merrill spoke next. "It's a long story," she answered. "Same as you I suppose about the mushroom cloud. From Par Vollen… isn't it?"
"Yeah, it is," Evelyn replied. "What happened exactly?"
Taking a deep breath, Hawke proceeded to recount what happened during the group's journey. Secret Tevinter cults, a witch like Morrigan, but more shocking, the revelation of Marcus's true allegiance as a spy for the Empire. "Imperial agents managed to follow us and have the book now," Hawke explained as he hung his head slightly. "We managed to secure some of Marcus's belongings but we're not sure if any would be helpful."
Evelyn's disappointment was palpable, yet she maintained her composure, nodding in gratitude. "No, you did what you could. I should have been more cautious looked into it and…" She sighed for a pause. "What's done is done. And as for what happened."
Gathering her thoughts, the Inquisitor went on to fill the group in on recent events. The fall of Orlais and Cassandra's death drove utter shock on Varric most of all. Yet it was the destruction of Par Vollen that etched horror and utter disbelief on all.
"We haven't received any word from the Qunari and we can't confirm but…" Evelyn struggled to finish when she pointed to her head and slightly tapped it. "Elven mage."
Only the sound of army camp life could be heard as not even a peep came from anyone as if though their voices were stolen. A glint of sweat trickled from the Inquisitor, for anything, anything at all even though she knew what they would say.
Varric spoke first, his voice trembled. "Maker's breath. The Qunari, they… I know they weren't friends but… to just wipe them all out like that. Just… shit. Shit."
"It's just… it just doesn't seem real," Merrill stammered out what she could.
"If this is what the Empire is capable of, then it's over isn't it?" Hawke sighed in defeat.
Evelyn met their gaze, determination gleaming in her eyes. "No, we can't beat the Empire head-on," she acknowledged. "But we can still ensure there is a Thedas left."
Confusion set among the group from the Inquistior's vague warning as she began to explain. "The Fea Opus has power over life and death. That power is enough for the Dragonborn to destroy the veil and release the Evanuris."
"Why do you make it sound so bad?" Piven asked, his voice laced with offense and confusion. "They're the protector of elves. If anything, they'll fight against this Dragonborn."
Evelyn's eyes widened in surprise, narrowing her gaze as she studied Piven. "Who are you to defend them? Who are two even?" she questioned with suspicion at the two younglings.
Hawke stepped forward. "Inquisitor, this is Piven and Nivia. A Dalish hunter and Tevinter apprentice. We encountered them as companions of Marcus on our journey and they've been helping us since. And unlike Marcus, they're trustworthy."
Varric chimed in. "Hawke's right. Pixie and Twitch aren't spies like Marcus. They were tricked like us."
Evelyn's worry lingered in her eyes as she fixated on Piven. "You claim to know about the Evanuris. How do you know? What's your connection to them?"
Piven's gaze flickered with unease. "I… I've come across stories and legends, that's all. What would a human know anyways?"
"Piven, please," Merrill attempted to assuage.
"There's a time and place to argue," Hawke added before turning to Evelyn. "We've been through a lot with magisters recently. And we haven't told them yet."
"Yet?" Piven asked with a frown creasing his brow.
"What are you talking about?" Nivia finally spoke as well, just as confused.
"It's a long story," Merrill said, placing a soothing hand on Piven's shoulder. "Even I didn't believe at first."
A flicker of doubt lingered on the Inquisitor's face. However, with the urgency of the situation, the matter had to rest for the time being. "Whatever we think, destroying the veil isn't something we can let happen. Thousands, maybe even millions could die with all the demons that'll be unleashed and who knows what else. We have to destroy that book."
"And I assume you have a plan?" Hawke asked.
"I do but…" Evelyn took a moment to pause as she gazed away briefly for a moment. "Given everything that has happened, the sacrifices we've made, and the uncertainty of the future, I must ask: Do you still want to be a part of this? It's okay if you don't. I won't hold it against any of you if you choose to find peace elsewhere."
The group all exchanged looks, their eyes locked with doubt and introspection, Within that shared silence, determination blossomed and resolved radiated forth without the need for words.
"Inquisitor," Hawke said as the first. "You know us, know what we've been through. We might have left before but… this is different. It's not about politics, it's about saving Thedas. Even if it means doing so under Imperial rule."
Varric nodded in agreement, a somber expression on his face. "Hawke's right. We owe it to all the people we've lost, to everyone who's counting on us. If Hawke's in, then so am I, no matter what."
Merrill stepped forwards, taking Hawke's hand in hers. "I'm with Hawke, always."
Nivia and Piven exchanged glances, their determination evident. Nivia spoke first, her voice resolute. "Marcus betrayed us, but we won't let his actions jeopardize the safety of these artifacts. We're in."
"I can't believe I'm agreeing with a Tevinter but I'm in too," Piven added.
Evelyn's heart swelled with a mix of gratitude and relief. After that had happened, she could still count on allies to help in the face of insurmountable odds. With the weight of their decision settled upon them, Evelyn laid the final plan to save Thedas.
Back to the present of thunderous fire of dragon shouts and cannon fire, the contrast between the hallowed halls of the Circle of Magi from the raging battle outside was striking. Of course, that did not preclude the group from facing any challenges. From vehement protests from the Archon to the lowest remaining Altus, only thanks to help from Magister Maevaris could they gain modest entry. Yet to gain further access required the favorite duo of the Champion and Tethras to resort to their wits and cunning, orchestrating the expulsion of the remaining magisters and leaving the inner chambers open for exploration. The Circle revealed itself as a place of immense knowledge, housing the oldest documents and manuscripts known to Thedas.
Days spent the group searched in vain for the one thing to stop the Fea Opus, to prevent the re-emergence of the Evanuris. Easier said than done. The two Dalish of the group were so enamored with the contents that at many times forgetful of the war just outside the walls.
"Can you please not break anything?" the young Tevene mage Nivia protested, more often at Piven.
"As if your people hadn't broken it already," the Dalish boy argued in cheek.
Thankfully a quick defuse from Varric and Evelyn's hardened focus kept the group on task when finally, after nearly a week, it had been found.
"How did you find it?" Evelyn asked as she followed down the stairs with the Champion. "Even Mythal here couldn't sense it."
"Well, I guess Merrill should find it exciting she something an Evanuris couldn't" Hawke opined while letting a smile at the Inquisitor as she sneered to herself in response that was no doubt a quibble from said Evanuris. "It was hard for her to explain but I can surmise is was something about pure elven blood, we think."
"We'll just have to learn it another time."
Regrouping with the others, they made their way to the hidden chamber where the staff lay dormant, embedded secretly in a statue and waiting to be unleashed. The air crackled with energy as Evelyn extended her hand, her connection to Mythal intertwining with the ancient artifact. Her touch awakened dormant power, causing the staff to pulse with ethereal light. The once-disguised statue transformed, revealing the true form of the staff, its intricate design reflecting both elegance and raw power.
As Evelyn held the staff in her hands, she could sense the immense potential it held as it resonated with ancient magic. Yet, along with the awe-inspiring might came a weight, a burden that settled upon her shoulders. The staff seemed to carry the weight of history, the hopes and fears of countless souls who had come before. It was a responsibility she couldn't take lightly.
The group stood in a solemn circle, their eyes fixed upon the staff and its radiant glow. A glimmer of hope flickered within their hearts, mingling with the lingering shadows of doubt. They knew that their mission was far from over, that the Dragonborn still loomed as a formidable adversary, but for the moment, a sense of respite embraced them.
Varric cleared his throat, breaking the silence. "So, now that we have the magic staff, how are we going to use it on the Dragonborn?"
Evelyn's gaze shifted to her companions as they awaited the plan. She weighed her words carefully, how best to convey them. She had consulted with Mythal beforehand and concluded it'd be best to wait for the Dragonborn to begin to use Fea Opus. Of course, they would have to first escape Minrathous and somehow get past the entire army unnoticed.
Before any further discussion could take place, a sense of unease permeated the air. It then dawned upon them that Piven and Nivia were conspicuously absent from their midst.
"Where are those two?" Evelyn asked and the group began their search.
It would be some time as on the opposite side of the Circle, Nivia wandered through a dimly lit corridor. She cautioned her steps as she gazed into each room she passed, quiet as a mouse.
"Where is that elf?" she muttered to herself.
Already suspicious since the event with Marcus, her heart weighed only further every second she did not find the Dalish. And then, as if a faint glimmer in the shadows, she spotted him. Surrounded by bookshelves that reached high above into the tower, Piven stood there. And… he held something close to his chest.
"What are you doing?" Nivia rushed in. "I told you not to touch anything?"
The young Dalish hunter scoffed at her accusations. "You mean the artifacts your people stole from mine," he answered with indignation. "Of course, it's not a surprise you'd think of me as a thief for just holding something."
"Because you're holding it close to you like one," she pointed. "And for your information, I don't have a problem with elves. I-"
"No, you're a mage," he reminded so often he did. "From Tevinter, who enslave people like me and left the rest of us to scrape by what little you haven't corrupted."
His comment provoked a scoff from her throat yet her heart also knew he spoke true. "I'm not like them," she retorted. "What happened was sad and that's why we have them here. To preserve them and not break them."
"I'm not going to break it!" Piven's frustration boiled over, his voice rising in volume.
Nivia's annoyance deepened, and she found herself irritated with his consistent rudeness. Before either of them could say another word, a voice suddenly broke through the air.
"You might be better off doing so, Piven."
The two youngsters froze, fear etched on their faces. Their arguing came to an abrupt halt as they turned to face the voice they recognized - Marcus. Now forced to find common ground, they stood side by side as the battlemage emerged from the shadows, his hands raised in a conciliatory gesture; the irony wasn't lost to them.
"It's been a while," Marcus continued as he kept his distance, aware of their hesitance. "I know you have a lot to say but-"
Before Marcus could even begin to explain everything, their anger, and betrayal erupted in aggression. Piven's face contorted with rage as he hurled objects at Marcus, while Nivia's eyes blazed with a fierce magical aura, unleashing bolts of energy. However, Marcus ever-prepared, swiftly erected a magical barrier, absorbing their attacks.
Though Marcus anticipated their reaction, it didn't dampen the hurt in his eyes. He understood their anger, their disappointment in his deceit. Even as he would explain, his voice would still tinge with remorse.
"I know you're furious with me, and you have every right to be," he admitted. "I apologize for the deception but please listen. Those artifacts you took, they're dangerous. Let me help you."
"Help us?" Piven scoffed with disdain. "You mean how you would help my clan and take artifacts rightfully belonging to us? And hand them to your Emperor, a human, to keep for himself. You're no better than a magister."
Marcus bristled at the accusation. "Don't even go there, Piven," he retorted, speaking with urgency. "The Empire is here to stop those kinds of people and Tevinter's disgusting corruption, to bring about real change. Hell, you should know by now that we've restored the Dales, given the elves their own country."
"But not for the ones here," Nivia, her skepticism mirroring Piven's, challenged. "There are many elves here and you've brought war and destruction. How can you claim to help?"
"We're not here to slaughter."
"So what happened to Par Vollen isn't that?" she questioned. "All those people… slaughtered. I know we were at war with them but I didn't want to destroy them. Not like your Emperor did."
Marcus struggled to find a response, his eyes darting for a moment as he searched for the right words. "It's… it's not that simple," his voice faltered. "The Qunari… they posed a threat. The Empire had to take action against their corruption."
Nivia's voice rose, barely above a whisper. "And what about us then? Are you going to kill all of us? Are we not corrupted by the magisters?"
"That's completely different," Marcus swung his arm at the notion. "Look, we don't have time to debate this now. You need to give me those artifacts now, they're dangerous."
"Because you know so much about us," Piven lashed in defiance, his voice leaden with sarcasm.
"Dammit, Piven, this is serious!" Marcus raised his voice, now growing tired of this back and forth. "Those artifacts are from the Evanuris like Fen'harel. You don't know what they're capable of."
"You have no right to speak of them!" Piven meted out in anger.
"It's the truth," the battlemage asserted firmly. "What you know as saviors are nothing more than evil mages who enslaved their own people. Just like the magisters you hate, they care for nothing but themselves and their own power."
"Liar! They spoke to me! This will free the Evanuris!"
In that very moment, as the truth burst forth from his lips, realization dawned upon him, too late to contain the words he had long kept hidden.
Marcus's eyes widened in astonishment, his surprise genuine. "What did you say?" he questioned in disbelief and urgency.
Nivia also showed a flicker of surprise. Her eyes darted between the two, uncertainty etched across her features. This revelation she hadn't anticipated, at least any she could have guessed.
Piven, the weight of his confession settling heavily upon him, suddenly turned to flee. Marcus yelled at him to stop but before anything else could be said, a large figure busted through the wall. In an instant, Piven was swept up to reveal himself in Do'jhan's arm, firmly gripped to prevent his escape. As Piven struggled against the iron hold, demanding release, Marucs's voice rang out.
"Do'jhan, stop!" Marcus shouted. "Let him go. This isn't part of the plan."
"Yes, it is," the Pahmar-raht spoke resolutely.
With incredible speed, Do'jhan barreled past Marcus, who barely dodged in time. A high-pitched yell directed Marcus back to Do'jhan, now holding Nivia and Piven in his arms.
"Let go!" the two yelled before Do'jhan covered their mouths.
"I said let them go!" Marcus said, his voice echoing from his magical aura.
But Do'jhan's grip only tightened, his gigantic paws pressing on their heads. All it would take to pop their heads would barely be anything to the warrior. "You waste time, Battlemage. The Emperor waits for us and you want to talk. Perhaps Do'jhan can help when I squish them like grapes."
Infuriated, the Battlemage flared with a fiery wreath, reading his staff and poised for action. Yet before he could begin, a swift rush of footsteps echoed from behind. In a burst, Hawke, Evelyn, Varric, and Merrill arrived with fighting in mind. Their expressions were a mixture of alarm and determination upon the scene of two enemies holding their comrades hostage.
"Wait!' Marus exclaimed no doubt to explain.
An invisible presence grasped the room as if choking the air from all their lungs. A flash of bright white from the heavens then filled the room, leaving nothing but an empty room of bookshelves in an empty tower.
"This isn't-" Marcus's sentence hung in the air as his senses came back befuddled.
Along with the others, they needed only glance once at the ashen sky to realize they were outside Minrathous. On a bluff, the city still sieged yet they were far enough from the Imperial army.
"Holy shit," Varric exclaimed.
"What did you do?" Merrill furrowed at Marcus as she and the group all turned to face the mage.
Before he could answer, Do'jhan's laughter reverberated through the air, drawing their attention. He held up a gem, white as clouds. Its surface shimmered with residual energy as the flashing light resided. With a smirk, Do'jhan released his hold on Nivia and Piven, their forms stumbling slightly as they found their footing.
"What have you done, Do'jhan?!" Marcus asked.
The Pahmar-raht only responded in a hearty laugh, baring his sharp teeth. The Inquisitor in turn responded in kind with scorching rays of fire rupturing forth from her hand. Do'jhan's form flickered and wavered before disappearing altogether. The group was left stunned, for a moment.
Varric and Merrill hurried over to Nivia and Piven, checking their safety. Meanwhile, the collective attention shifted upon Marcus, their eyes fixated with wariness. Weapons however readied in their hands.
"This isn't how it looks," Marcus raised his hands in a gesture of peace. "I just wanted the artifacts Piven carries. That's all. Whatever opinion you have of the Empire or me, they're dangerous. We can't let the Evanuris free."
And as he finished his speech, expecting more arguments or attacks thrown, it dawned on Marcus that they were not looking at him. Past him in fact. In a split moment of confusion that set in, a pit deep in him stirred, and crushing pressure subsumed all around him. This feeling he felt permeated, only once did he witness it. Then it hit him.
With a quick turn, Marcus widened as he laid witness to what everyone else was staring at. None other than the Emperor himself, clad in plate armor with a billowing cape that made his figure more oppressive than usual. His commanding presence stilled all movements as everyone remained silent and unsure of what to do.
"It's good to see you, Marcus," Gaius finally spoke with a more relaxed tone. "It's been months but I'm glad to see you're well."
"Your Imperial Majesty," Marcus stammered as he let out a quick bow. "What are you doing here? I-"
"You've done well, Marcus," Gaius strode aside. "With your mission complete, you may begin preparations with Commander Celanya. This war shall be over soon."
The atmosphere grew taut from his words as a sense of foreboding settled like a heavy fog. It uneased even Hawke and Evelyn, where not even they felt this against their own former adversaries.
"I know this is quite a strange turn of events but I see no better time than any," Gaius spoke first and lightly bowed. "I am Gaius Dracos, Emperor of the Dragon Empire. Though of course, some of you already know."
The group tried to keep their nerves, staying close to face against the Emperor. Piven and Nivia stood back while the rest stood at the ready, waiting for what seemed the inevitable fight.
Gaius merely chuckled. "There's no need for that," he raised both his hands, lifting his cape to reveal just the armor he wore. "I merely wish to speak with you all, which I must admit this outcome wasn't expected, it's rare that events unfold with such… intricacy."
"Don't even try," Evelyn surged with resolve, blasting searing rays of fire.
But the attack met an unyielding barrier. A shimmering magical shield that effortlessly canceled the spell as the Emperor remained unyielding. His lips curved into a faint smile. "This is the path you'll choose? I'd be surprised but I would have done the same."
In an instant, the air seemed to freeze as Gaius's power surged. His voice resonated with all inspiring commands.
"QIILAAN!"
The effect was immediate and overwhelming. The Thedosians fell to their hands and knees, locked in place. Even moving their eyes was an intense struggle. Left to face the Emperor's presence with an unsettling mixture of fear and defiance, all that could be done was to listen.
"Emperor, what are you doing?" Marcus asked with concern more genuine than his lips had pursed in these months.
"What I always meant to do," Gaius replied cooly, grabbing both Piven and Nivia by the collar. "These two are the key to freeing the Evanuris and finally bringing peace to Thedas."
Doubt gnawed at Marcus's thoughts as the Emperor's words plunged him into a whirlpool of emotions. This… this was not the words of the Emperor he admired, who came here to curb tyranny and bring peace.
As Gaius's chilling words echoed in the air, Marcus struggled to reconcile his beliefs with the stark reality laid before him. The Emperor's assertion that Piven and Nivia were the key to freeing the Evanuris resonated with an eerie truth, a truth that Marcus desperately wanted to dismiss as manipulation or deceit.
A turbulent mixture of fear and disbelief surged within Marcus's chest. He tried to cling to his convictions, to the hope that there was an alternative explanation, a way to interpret this revelation that didn't lead down the path of destruction. Yet, his grasp on his beliefs felt fragile, slipping through his fingers like sand.
"Why?" The word escaped Marcus's lips, his voice tinged with desperation. "Why would you do this? Release beings that would bring chaos and devastation? They're dangerous."
Gaius's gaze remained steady. "Exactly," he responded decisively. "They are too dangerous to be left alive. So we must bring them here and put an end to their lives forever."
"But Veil keeps them back."
"Not for long Marcus. This war, all the upheaval, the deaths… even our presence here has significantly weakened the Veil. It's a miracle demons haven't invaded in full force already."
"Bringing them out then will only bring a horde of demons," Marcus protested in desperation. "And who knows what they can do before you can defeat them? If you can? We're meant to bring peace here, not create chaos."
"It always has been, Marcus," Gaius glared. "But sacrifices have to be made. This boy's artifacts and the girl's latent magical power are key to drawing the Evanuris. The rest is secondary. Noble goals we are achieving but it's nothing compared to what I have planned."
The Battlemage's mind raced in a whirlwind of thoughts, the ideals he held of the Emperor shattering. The very foundation upon which Marcus believed he carried for the Empire, for Tamriel, Mundu. Were they nothing but a means to an end? And for what?
"Is this… all a facade, then?" Marcus's voice quivered with a mix of anguish and incredulity. "Everything you've done. This entire war, driving the Qunari to extinction, my own mission. Was all of it done to draw the Evanuris out?"
"It has to be done, Marcus," Gaius said, remaining unfaltered. "There will never be peace unless I do this."
"Then why do you need-" Marcus began to question when it clicked on what the Emperor said, regarding sacrifice. And as he stared back at the Emperor, widening at the grip he held onto Piven and Nivia. "No…"
"I'm sorry, Marcus. I don't want to do this either, believe me, I would have done otherwise. It may be that their lives may be lost but I'll try to ensure it doesn't. Yet, even so, sacrifices must be made."
Finally, it dawned on Marcus. The Emperor, the one he saw as a benevolent ruler who ruled with temperance and caution, was a facade for someone who was willing to do anything, even allow young kids to die. His assurance of prevention was nothing but hollow against the backdrop of his ruthless ambition.
As he grappled with the weight of this horrifying truth, a surge of power erupted as the two turned to see the group free of their paralysis. Evelyn stood defiantly above as her form radiated a brilliant, almost ethereal yellow light. As if transcending into a manifestation of divine intervention.
With a voice that held the authority of both Evelyn and Mythal, she declared, "I will not allow this."
Power again erupted as a white glow enveloped Evelyn. Brimming with magic, it coursed through and even recreated her left forearm made of yellow light. The shock was evident even among Gaius, the surprise evident in his eyes. For there was no time to speak as Evelyn charged with unstoppable force. With her combined determination and the powerful presence of Mythal, Evelyn's assault pushed the Emperor back, forcing him to release Piven and Nivia. The hostages were freed from his grip, stumbling away from their captor's reach. The air crackled with tension as Evelyn stood defiantly, her form still bathed in that otherworldly light.
Gaius merely glared back in determination. "This early?" he asked. "I assumed you would be more patient Mythal, much more than Fen'harel ever was."
In an electrifying crescendo, Evelyn surged forth blinding torrents with radiant intensity. But the Emperor was no ordinary adversary, smiling as he deftly dodged. Evelyn gritted and roared, preparing another attack. But Gaius changed, planting his feet. He was not going to defend.
"If that's how you want to play. FUS RO DAH!"
An all-mighty push erupted from his dragon shout. A shockwave of energy obliterated all in its path. Screams echoed as the group was lifted off their feet, helpless against the colossal impact. Even as Evelyn attempted to shield them with her magic, the sheer force was overwhelming. The ground beneath them vanished, replaced by an abyss that swallowed them whole. In the midst of the chaos, companions scattered, caught in the maelstrom of destruction.
Evelyn found herself standing amidst the aftermath, the deafening echoes fading into an eerie silence. Hawke, Varric, and Merrill were nowhere to be seen, swallowed by the tempest. Nivia and Piven lay off to the side, battered but alive, the brush with annihilation narrowly evaded. Marcus stood nearby, his shock mirrored in his eyes, his world shattered by the cataclysmic events that had unfolded in mere moments.
As the dust began to settle and the extent of the devastation became apparent, the survivors were left in a realm of shattered reality, grappling with the abruptness of their separation, and the looming threat that still hung in the air. The Dragonborn Emperor proudly smiled, bemused at the futile resistance.
"Know this, Mythal. Everything that will happen today is because of your actions. And I thank you and I'm sorry for what must become of you."