Dragon Age/God of War: Of Dragons and Gods
Chapter 2: Uncertain Foundations, and Birthright
…
With a heavy heart and weighing their limited options, the group found themselves waiting in the Gallows Courtyard. The Gallows was the center of Templar authority in Kirkwall, a place that bore witness to numerous injustices and served as a stark reminder of the city's harsh realities.
Before the group entered the city, they had been approached by Ewald, the captain of the guard, who informed them about the tense situation at the entrance. Numerous refugees and other individuals were gathered, clamoring to be allowed entry. Among them were several deserters who demanded that they be permitted to enter Kirkwall.
As Kratos, Hawke, Aveline, and the others explained to Ewald that they had family within the city, the deserters became increasingly agitated. Their frustration soon boiled over into violence, and they lashed out at the guard and the group.
Hawke, with lightning-fast reflexes, drew his daggers and faced the attackers, his movements as fluid as water. Aveline, ever the protector, stepped forward with her shield and sword, prepared to defend her newfound companions. Bethany, her eyes filled with determination, grasped her staff tightly, ready to unleash her magical abilities if needed.
Kratos, however, stood with an almost eerie calm as the chaos unfolded around him. He assessed the situation, his mind calculating the most efficient way to quell the disturbance. As one of the deserters lunged towards him with a sword, Kratos revealed an astonishing feature of his gauntlet: with a swift motion, a shield unfolded from it, catching the deserter's sword like a vice.
The sight of this impossible shield left everyone, including the deserters, momentarily dumbstruck. It was clear that Kratos was a formidable and resourceful warrior, possessing technology beyond anything they had seen before.
After dealing with the deserters, the group took a moment to catch their breath. Aveline's eyes remained fixed on Kratos, watching in amazement as his shield effortlessly folded back into the gauntlet.
"Where did you get such a contraption?" Aveline asked, unable to contain her curiosity.
Kratos glanced at her and replied simply, as if it were an afterthought, "My wife... She got it from dwarves."
The answer left Aveline, Hawke, and the others puzzled, but there was no time to press further.
they were met by Gamlen, who appeared downtrodden as he descended the steps to greet them. He wasted no time in breaking the news that he had gambled away the family's entire estate and fortune.
Left with no other choice, the group was forced to consider working off their debt by partnering with the Red Iron mercenaries or the elf Athenril's smuggling group, both of which were notorious for their morally questionable dealings. The Red Iron mercenaries were known for their brutal, unforgiving contracts, while Athenril's group traded in lyrium and, at times, even slaves.
Despite their reservations, Kratos, Hawke, and the others knew that they needed a means to survive in Kirkwall. They set out to question both groups, carefully weighing their options and considering the potential consequences of aligning themselves with either faction.
After carefully questioning both the Red Iron mercenaries and Athenril's smuggling group, the group gathered to discuss their options. Though neither choice was ideal, they needed to make a decision in order to survive in Kirkwall and pay off their debt.
As they talked among themselves, it became apparent that they were leaning towards the Red Iron mercenaries. While the mercenaries were known for their brutal contracts and ruthless ways, the idea of associating with Athenril's smuggling group, which dabbled in lyrium and slave trade, was even more unsettling to them.
Aveline, being a guard, was particularly adamant about steering clear of the smuggling operation. Kratos, although not thrilled with either choice, understood the importance of making alliances and doing what was necessary to survive. Hawke, ever the pragmatic leader, ultimately decided that their best bet would be to join the Red Iron mercenaries, at least for now.
With their decision made, the group approached the Red Iron mercenaries and agreed to work for them for a year to pay off their debt. Despite the challenges that awaited them, they were determined to overcome any obstacle that stood in their way.
…
One year later, Hawke had made quite a name for himself within the Red Iron mercenaries, and word arrived that the hero of Ferelden defeated the blight, and lived….no small feat. Hawks calm attitude, resourcefulness, and unwavering determination in getting things done had turned him into something of a folk hero in Kirkwall. People began to see him as a beacon of hope in the otherwise ruthless and unforgiving world of the mercenaries.
Kratos, on the other hand, remained an enigma to most. His impressive strength, combat skills, and the strange weapons he carried fueled whispers and rumors throughout the city. Some spoke of a mysterious traveler from a distant land, far beyond anything they knew. They speculated about his origins, the battles he had fought, and the powerful enemies he had defeated. If only they knew the truth...
As the year passed, the bond between Kratos, Hawke, and their companions had grown stronger. They had faced countless trials and hardships together, standing shoulder to shoulder against their adversaries.
Although they had managed to pay off their debt, the reclaiming of their family name would not come until later. For now, Kratos, Hawke, and their companions continued to live in the slums of Kirkwall, a humbling reminder that home is where the heart is.
Kratos had grown accustomed to their meager living conditions, and even found himself growing fond of Jake, the cheerful Mabari hound that belonged to Hawke's family. Jake's playful nature and unwavering loyalty to his family were a welcome source of comfort and companionship for Kratos, who had endured many hardships and losses throughout his life.
Living together in the slums had brought the group closer, and they had developed a strong bond that was only reinforced by their shared experiences working for the Red Iron mercenaries. As they struggled to make a life for themselves in Kirkwall, they continued to dream of a better future – one in which they could reclaim their family name, restore their estate, and live free from the shackles of their past.
However, it would take time, determination, and the support of each other before they could turn those dreams into reality. And for Kratos, the quest to find a way back to his own world remained ever-present in his thoughts, even as he fought alongside his newfound friends in the unfamiliar world of Thedas.
Kratos had not forgotten Aveline, who had been a steadfast ally during their initial days in Kirkwall. One day, Hawke and Bethany approached him, asking if he would like to accompany them on a visit to see Aveline at the Viscount's Keep. They could use the company, they said, and they were sure that Aveline would appreciate the visit.
Kratos agreed, thinking it might be a good opportunity to learn more about the inner workings of the city and maintain a strong bond with one of their early allies. So, they made their way through the city, eventually arriving at the impressive Viscount's Keep. It was a place of power, order, and stability - qualities that Kratos had come to respect, even if he had little love for the politics that often accompanied them.
As they entered the Keep, they could see that Aveline had done well for herself in her role within the city guard. Her sense of justice and determination to protect the people of Kirkwall had earned her respect and admiration from both her peers and the citizens she served.
Upon seeing her old friends, Aveline greeted them warmly, clearly pleased to see them. The reunion was a chance for the group to catch up on each other's lives, discuss the challenges they faced, and reminisce about the shared experiences that had brought them together in the first place.
As they talked, Kratos couldn't help but reflect on the bonds he had formed in this unfamiliar world. Despite the many differences between them, there was something about these people that had become as close to him as family. For the first time in a long time, Kratos felt a sense of belonging, and the seeds of hope began to take root in his heart that, perhaps, he could find a way to make peace with his past and build a better future in this new world.
Aveline, ever vigilant and dedicated to her duties, took the opportunity to discuss some tasks with Hawke and Kratos. She had become aware of a series of issues that threatened the peace and stability of Kirkwall and its surrounding areas. Believing that Hawke and Kratos, with their unique skills and backgrounds, would be well-suited to address these challenges, she offered them a series of jobs.
These tasks ranged from investigating criminal activities within the city to dealing with more dangerous foes beyond the city walls. Aveline hoped that by working together, they could maintain order in Kirkwall and protect its citizens from harm.
Hawke and Kratos, knowing the importance of such work and trusting in Aveline's judgment, agreed to take on the jobs she presented. They saw it as an opportunity to do some good, put their skills to use, and perhaps find some answers for Kratos about his own situation.
As they agreed to take on the tasks, Aveline looked at them with a sense of camaraderie and commitment. "If you're willing to undertake these tasks," she said with determination, "then know that I'm ready to lend you my shield arm. We've fought together before, and I trust in your abilities. We'll stand together to protect Kirkwall and its people."
Hawke and Kratos appreciated Aveline's unwavering support and loyalty. It was comforting to know that they could count on her in the face of adversity. Together, they formed a formidable team, combining their respective skills and strengths to overcome the challenges that awaited them.
…
Later
As Hawke, Bethany, and Kratos stood before Bartrand, he explained that although their skills and experience seemed impressive, he already had enough people for the expedition. He then told them that the only way he would consider letting them join was if they could raise at least 50 sovereigns to finance their part in the endeavor. They would also need to convince him that their skills were indispensable.
Disappointed but not discouraged, the trio left Bartrand's estate and started discussing their options when a charismatic dwarf, Varric Tethras, approached them. Varric, Bartrand's brother, had overheard their conversation and was intrigued by the unlikely group.
"I might be able to help you," Varric said with a sly smile. "My brother can be stubborn, but he's also a pragmatist. If you can raise the 50 sovereigns he mentioned and show that you have something unique to offer, I'm sure I can convince him to let you join the expedition."
At that moment, a thief snatched a coin purse from a nearby passerby and attempted to flee the scene. Without missing a beat, Varric raised his crossbow, Bianca, and fired a bolt, pinning the thief's shirt to a wall without injuring him. The display of Varric's skill left the trio even more intrigued.
Hawke, Bethany, and Kratos exchanged glances before agreeing to Varric's proposal. They knew the road ahead would be challenging, but the promise of a better future and the possibility of uncovering long-lost secrets in the Deep Roads fueled their determination. They thanked Varric and set off to find jobs and opportunities that would bring them closer to their goal, all the while aware that their unique talents and Kratos' otherworldly origins could play a pivotal role in winning Bartrand's favor.
They then asked him why he would help them?
Varric studied the trio for a moment before responding. "Why would I help you? Simple, really. You three have quite the reputation around here, and your stories of heroics have become the stuff of legend among the people. I'm a storyteller myself, and I can't help but be drawn to interesting characters like you."
He continued, "Besides, I have a feeling that your unique talents and Kratos' mysterious origins could be invaluable to the expedition. If you manage to raise the 50 sovereigns, you'll find me at the Hanged Man, a tavern in Lowtown. I'm usually there when I'm not handling business. Feel free to come by if you have any questions or need any advice."
Hawke, Bethany, and Kratos thanked Varric once again for his assistance and set off to find the means to raise the necessary funds. They knew they had their work cut out for them, but with the help of their newfound ally, they felt more confident in their chances of securing a place on Bartrand's expedition and unlocking the secrets of the Deep Roads.
…
Later, as they were planning their next move, Bethany approached Hawke and Kratos with a request of her own. "I recently learned that our family estate has been taken over by slavers and bandits," she said, her voice tense with concern. "They're using it as a base of operations, and I'm afraid they're defiling our home and everything our family stood for."
Her eyes pleaded with them as she continued, "I know we have a lot on our plate right now, but I can't just stand by and do nothing. Would you help me take back our estate and put an end to the criminal activity happening there?"
Hawke and Kratos exchanged glances, understanding the importance of this task to Bethany. With a resolute nod, they agreed to help her reclaim their family home. Together, they gathered their weapons and supplies, preparing to face the bandits and slavers that had taken over the once-proud Amell estate.
As they prepared for their mission, Hawke, Kratos, and Bethany decided to recruit additional help. They approached Aveline and Varric, explaining the situation and requesting their assistance.
Aveline agreed without hesitation, always eager to put an end to criminal activity in Kirkwall. Varric, on the other hand, seemed more intrigued by the potential story that could unfold. "I have to say, this sounds like the makings of a fantastic tale," he said with a grin. "Besides, how could I say no to helping my new friends?"
With Aveline and Varric joining their ranks, the group felt more confident in their chances of success.
As they explored the estate, the group came across a locked chest in a side room. Hawke, with his nimble fingers and lockpicking skills, easily opened it, revealing its contents. Inside, they found a portrait of their mother, Leandra, on her wedding day. She looked radiant and happy, a vision of love and hope.
Bethany's eyes lit up as she gazed upon the portrait. The sight of her mother in happier times warmed her heart and brought a smile to her face. It was a precious memento, a reminder of the love that their family shared.
Hawke looked at the portrait with a mixture of nostalgia and sadness, remembering the life they'd left behind. For a moment, the siblings shared a tender moment of reflection before carefully packing the portrait away to keep it safe. With renewed determination, they pressed on, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead in their quest to reclaim their family estate and legacy.
As Kratos watched the siblings share a moment of happiness in discovering the portrait of their mother, he recognized the importance of family, reflecting on his own past and the loved ones he had lost. Although he remained stoic on the outside, inwardly he felt a sense of warmth and happiness for Hawke and Bethany, knowing that they had managed to recover a precious piece of their family history.
The scene reminded Kratos of his own journey and the sacrifices he had made. He knew that despite the pain and loss, it was important to cherish the memories and hold onto the love of those who were no longer with him. Seeing the siblings' determination to reclaim their family's legacy inspired Kratos and served as a reminder that family was worth fighting for. With renewed resolve, he continued alongside Hawke and the others, prepared to face whatever dangers awaited them in their pursuit of justice and the restoration of their family's honor.
Hawke's keen eyes caught a glimpse of a nearly invisible trap on the floor just as Kratos was about to step on it. Quickly and deftly, Hawke moved to disarm the trap, his fingers working with precision as he neutralized the threat.
Kratos looked down at the now harmless trap and then back at Hawke with a nod of appreciation. He might have been caught unaware had it not been for Hawke's sharp eyes and quick actions. This small act of teamwork further strengthened the bond between them, as they began to rely on each other's strengths to overcome the obstacles in their path.
As they continued further into the family estate, they found themselves more alert and prepared for any additional dangers that might lie in wait. With a mage and several slavers in the next room, the group readied themselves for a confrontation that would surely test their mettle and their newfound camaraderie.
As they prepared to ambush the mage and slavers, Kratos took out his Leviathan Axe, its intricate craftsmanship evident even in the dim light. Bethany couldn't help but notice the peculiar way the air seemed to be charged with frost around the axe, an almost supernatural aura emanating from it.
Hawke nodded to Kratos, Bethany, and Varric as he gripped a concussion grenade in his hand. The group shared a look of determination, each readying their respective weapons and abilities for the imminent confrontation.
With a swift and coordinated movement, Hawke hurled the concussion grenade into the room, its explosion disorienting the mage and slavers. Taking advantage of the chaos, Kratos charged in, his mighty axe cleaving through the air with lethal intent. Bethany followed closely behind, her staff crackling with magical energy, while Varric and Aveline provided ranged support and cover.
The group worked in perfect harmony, their skills and abilities complementing one another as they swiftly overwhelmed their foes. The mage and slavers didn't stand a chance against the combined might of this formidable team, and it wasn't long before the last of them fell to the ground, defeated.
Their mission to reclaim the Hawke family estate was nearing its end, but the bonds forged between these unlikely allies had grown stronger, forging a powerful team that would face many more challenges together in the days to come.
As the battle raged on, Aveline fought with fierce determination, her shield and sword a whirlwind of unyielding steel. Despite her skill and tenacity, however, she failed to notice a slaver sneaking up behind her, ready to strike.
From across the room, Kratos spotted the imminent danger and wasted no time. With a mighty throw, he hurled the Leviathan Axe towards the slaver with inhuman force, using only one hand. The axe found its mark, pinning the slaver to the wall and leaving him frozen in place, an icy chill emanating from the weapon.
The room fell silent for a moment as everyone registered what had just occurred. Aveline raised an eyebrow, both impressed and surprised by Kratos' intervention and the axe's unique power. As the axe returned to Kratos' hand, the room seemed to grow colder for a brief moment.
Aveline turned to Kratos and offered a nod of appreciation. Their companions looked on in awe, each recognizing the incredible power and skill of their newfound ally.
The slaver boss, a mage with a twisted and malicious aura, could not hide his fear as he looked upon Kratos. Sweat trickled down his face, and his hands trembled ever so slightly. He stammered, "Th-that's not normal... No warrior could do that!"
He eyed Kratos warily, taking in the ashen skin and red markings that adorned his imposing form. It suddenly dawned on him that this must be the warrior that people had been talking about – the one who had come from a land far from Thedas.
His fear only seemed to fuel Kratos' resolve, as the Ghost of Sparta narrowed his eyes and clenched his fists. Hawke, Bethany, Aveline, and Varric readied themselves for the battle to come, feeling a renewed sense of confidence with Kratos on their side.
The mage, realizing he had nowhere to run and no hope of victory. In a final act of desperation, the slaver boss turned to blood magic, cutting his palm and using the blood to summon demons from the Fade. As the demons emerged, they paused, sensing the presence of Kratos, who stood like a statue, his eyes locked onto the mage. The demons could feel the chaos that lay dormant within Kratos, a force so powerful that it made them falter and take a step back.
The slaver boss noticed the demons' hesitation and shouted in anger, "Attack! What are you waiting for?!"
In response, Kratos let out a low growl and raised his Blades of Chaos, their wicked blades glowing with an unholy fire. The room seemed to grow darker as the heat from the blades filled the air, and the demons could feel the overwhelming power that radiated from the ancient weapons.
In terror, the demons retreated to the Fade, unable to bear the presence of the Blades of Chaos. Everyone in the room stared in shock at Kratos and his otherworldly weapons, their fear and awe palpable.
The slaver boss, now realizing the true extent of Kratos' power, began to tremble. He had heard whispers of the mysterious warrior, but nothing could have prepared him for the reality of the Ghost of Sparta.
The slaver boss, his hands shaking and blood dripping from the knife wound, dropped his weapon and backed up against the wall, trying to put as much distance as possible between himself and the terrifying figure of Kratos. The room still seemed darker and the heat emanating from the Blades of Chaos continued to make the slaver boss sweat profusely. He stammered, struggling to form words. "Wh-what do you want?"
Kratos, his expression grim, nodded to Hawke and Bethany who wanted the will to their family estate. He growled, "Give them the will to their family estate and leave this place. Never return."
Fumbling in his pockets, the slaver boss hastily retrieved the will, his hands trembling as he handed it over to Hawke. Before he could make his escape, however, Aveline stepped forward and grabbed him by the collar, ensuring that he would face justice for his crimes.
With the will finally in their possession and the slaver boss taken into custody, the group could finally leave the estate, knowing they had taken the first step in reclaiming their family's legacy.
As Hawke, Bethany, and Kratos examined the will, they made a surprising discovery. It stated that their grandparents had forgiven Leandra and left everything to her. It became clear that Gamlen had kept this crucial piece of information from them.
Anger and disbelief coursed through the siblings as they realized the extent of Gamlen's deception. Their family had been living in poverty for the past year, struggling to make ends meet, while all this time their rightful inheritance had been hidden from them.
Determined to confront Gamlen and reclaim their family's estate, they shared their findings with Aveline and Varric. The group was united in their resolve to right this wrong and help the Hawke family reclaim what was rightfully theirs. Together, they would face any obstacles and challenges that came their way, and work towards a better future for themselves and the people of Kirkwall.
Kratos, having witnessed the entire exchange between Hawke and his family, found himself reflecting on the strength of character that Hawke had demonstrated. In the face of betrayal, Hawke had chosen to show understanding and compassion, guiding Gamlen to recognize and atone for his mistakes instead of succumbing to anger and vengeance.
As the group returned to their modest home in the slums, Kratos marveled at the resilience and unity that the Hawke family had displayed throughout their hardships. They had overcome tremendous adversity together, and in the process, had built a strong bond that could withstand the tests of time. Kratos couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration and respect for these mortals, who managed to find hope and strength in each other despite the odds stacked against them.
In the following days, while Leandra made arrangements to reclaim the family estate and reminisced about the year they had spent living in the slums, Kratos spent time with Hawke and the others, learning more about their world and its people. As he did, he found himself feeling a growing connection to them and to the family he had been helping.