Flashback...

The sounds of cheering and singing bounced off the walls of the dining hall. Men in armor toast their drinks with one another, happiness and comradery over another earned victory for the kingdom of Camelot.

At the end of the bustling table that was lined with food, the king sat by himself, listening and observing the celebratory banquet. His expression did not break even once as he ate silently his plate of meats and fruits. The food was dry as usual, flavorless as usual, but he did not let his critique slip from his lips and spoil the mood of his knights'. Hearing their laughter after such grueling battles more than made up for it.

"You should join them, my king." A gentle voice spoke beside him, and the king turned to the face of his newly wedded wife, having sat down beside him just now. "They celebrate over a victory you help them claim. This banquet is as much in your honor as it is theirs."

The queen made an astute argument. Surely, to join the festivities would be greatly appreciated by the knights who fought under King Arthur's leadership. However, Arthur declined with a single wave of his hand.

"I am fine where I am. I do not wish to interrupt them."

Guinevere looked slightly disappointed, but she nodded respectfully at Arthur's decision. She sat back in her chair, relaxing against her seat; a foresight that she would be here for hours – observing her champion warriors dine and dance. Arthur suspected she wanted to join the celebration herself, but could not do so without her king's consent. He did not wish for her to stay her hand so, though. It was the queen's decision to make, not his to say.

He felt a little remorseful. A beautiful epitome of wisdom and kindness, recently coronated as Queen of all of Britain, and she could not be commemorated in the presence of her subjects. Arthur could only hope she would understand.

"It is as much in your honor that they celebrate, your highness," Arthur chose to add, filling the void between them that the songs of their knights could not. "Though, it must be rather jarring, hearing so many cheering after being so close to death itself. Lives lost in the midst of it."

A faint smile was worn on Guinevere. "It is nothing jarring, my king. Moments like these are what's important. To remind us all what they are fighting for. The lives that are allowed to live to the fullest. You have given them that chance. It does not mean they have forgotten the losses. Rather, they sing in memory of them, and the many more memories they look forward to making in the future. A future they can now look upon with hope and anticipation."

The statement left a satisfied warmth in Arthur's chest, and he sighed softly, letting the faintest smile show. He then looked to his queen, "You should join them, Guinevere. Please, do not let me keep you from this."

There was a tiny stretch in Guinevere's smile, a sly sort of smirk that hinted mischief intent, and she leaned in closely to Arthur's side. "I'm quite comfortable where I sit, actually. That is, if you'll have me…"

She placed a hand over Arthur's, and the smile the king wore grew ever more, squeezing his fingers around hers gratefully.

They then sat in silence for the rest of the celebration, watching, and enjoying the scene of their people - after decades of war and suffering - finally be freed from it all. The king was content, and he prayed that such happiness would last for centuries to come…

End Flashback


It is a familiar scene.

One which fills Arturia with nostalgia as she watches the people of the Inquisition celebrate. Mages and Templars, once resentful enemies to each other, are now clashing drinks instead of swords and staffs, toasting to the Breach's disappearance. The cold air is carried with music and dances, cheering, and chattery.

It is a sight to behold, of bodies in silver armor or enchanted robes falling into a tango, their feet kicking and their hands locked as they spin themselves around and around, following the rhythm of the lutes and drums. Some of them chose to discard their uniform completely, and simply dance with whoever is closest. Drunk with whoever could hold their liquor. And ate with whoever has an empty stomach to fill. This night, this moment, all woes, vengeance, and discrimination have completely ceased. There are only people here; that very truth that is no longer obscured by war – or the selfish intentions of those behind the scenes.

There is still the matter of who could have unleashed the Breach. Who orchestrated the downfall and events of both the Templars and the Mages, misled by their very own. But that is for another day. For now, just for tonight, Arturia prefers it that the people here enjoy themselves, to know about peace, something that Thedas has been long due of for nearly a year now…

"Whatcha doin' brooding in that corner over there?"

Arturia turns to Sera who approaches her from the side with Varric merrily following along, cup filled to the brim with heavy liquor in hand. The Red Jenny agent's feet bounce in her walk as she speaks, "I thought I knocked out that 'serious' of yours already. Come on!"

"She's right. This is a party, and no one's getting left out. Especially not the hero of this story herself," Varric supports with a teasing wink and takes Arturia's hand as Sera takes the other.

Before the knight can respond, they drag her out of her corner, and into the crowd where the rest of their comrades are gathered. There is no chance given to allow Arturia to deny their request. It is simply decided that she would join their celebration, and they would not have it any other way.

Arturia allows herself a small smile, and she concedes to the inclusion. 'I suppose I should let myself cut loose, every once in a while…'

She finally understands why Guinevere seemed disappointed back then, when Arturia declined to join the celebration. Not because Guinevere wanted to join, but because she wanted both of them to.

For the moment, the war is over. There is no need for the king to keep her distance anymore.

So she should enjoy herself with her people now. And let herself live.

For hours, the Inquisition celebrates.

At one point or another, Arturia got into a drinking contest with the Ironbull and Blackwall, at the insistence of Dorian in fact. Considering that she just saved the whole world, she more than earned a cup or two at this point.

The Tevinter mage is wise enough not to compete with them, though, because after emptying a barrel, Arturia is the sole victor to remain standing. She isn't utterly unphased by the consumption, but it would take a lot more than that to take her out. Meanwhile, Ironbull and Blackwall were puking in the farthest corner of the camp, surrounded by the disgusted laughter of the crowd.

Vivienne is sitting on the balcony of the nearby tavern, observing the festivities happening below with mirth. She meets Arturia's gaze and nods gracefully at her, raising her particularly ostentatious glass of wine before sipping it. There is no sign of Cole, and that is for the best at this time. As much as Arturia wants to include him in the festivities, it is for his own safety that he remains hidden. Dorian stays by the Ironbull's side, patting the Qunari's back though is unable to help himself chuckle at the sight.

They seem to be getting along quite well. How unexpected.

Varric guides Blackwall somewhere to recuperate, and the dwarf is also unable to hold himself back, "You just got bested by a teenager!" That is definitely going into his book as soon as he gets the chance to write it.

Sera then pulls Arturia aside for them to play a game of Shots and Darts. The game is essentially tossing darts into drinking glasses, but the catch is that the contents were random; either hot sauce, apple juice, bitter vinegar, etc., and it's up to everyone to decide which glass they'd want to risk taking a drink out of.

Many unfortunate souls had their palates assaulted by either the spiciness of grounded pepper juice or the pungent taste of sour lemons. It is only through Arturia's B ranked luck that she manages to get only sweet drinks, and people decide to rely on her instincts thereafter.

"No cheating!" Sera warns the others, or else she'd threaten to hide a raccoon in their pillows tonight.

A multitude of games and other activities unravel through the celebration. Arturia manages to spot several of her companions, but there is one person she notes to be missing, and so she sets out to locate that person.

She manages to find her standing at a cliff by the bustling campsite.

"You might want to prepare yourself if Sera or Varric catches you brooding to yourself," Arturia advises half-jokingly, letting out a small smile as the warrior woman beside her nods at the knight.

"I just needed a small break. Besides, one of us has to stay sober to deal with the drunkards," Cassandra replies sardonically before raising her eyes to the sky, where the glowing spiral of what once used to be the Breach hung still. "Solas confirmed that the heavens are scarred, but calm. The Breach is sealed."

However, there remain the reports of lingering Rifts, though that in time will be dealt with, and just as Arturia has also thought about before, there are many questions left to be answered still.

"But this was a victory," Cassandra assures, a soft hint of satisfaction of this fact. "And word of your heroism has spread. You'll be receiving many more audiences and opportunities than before. But for now, you deserve your rest."

Arturia nods gratefully at that promise, and she looks to the sky as well. "A victory, yes. But for all of us, not just mine alone. With the wounds of war still healing, I'm sure the Inquisition will be needed still, even after all the Rifts are closed."

"The purpose of the Inquisition was to achieve this outcome. Now that it is done, we will need a new focus," Cassandra states with conviction as she looks upon the group. "This was more than a victory of alliance. The mages and the templars have conjoined into one. There are still the matters of the negotiations, but up until now, none of us would have thought that this was possible."

Only Justinia believed in it, and now, her will has finally been fulfilled.

"It is our accomplishment, but we have you to thank for it, Arturia," Cassandra declares as she looks over to the knight. "I do not know where you came from, but regardless of your past, I am glad that we found you."

Arturia feels the deep appreciation in those words swelling within her chest, and the knight bows her head in honor. "I, too, am glad to have stumbled upon this place. And to have met you all as well."

A relaxed expression unfolds as Arturia looks upon the others. The pride of having helped them. Of seeing them happy.

The sight of her comforted expression reminds Cassandra of that time in Therinfal Redoubt. When Arturia arranged the templars' flags to establish the importance of each banner, and without any hesitation, the knight chose the Lion's banner; a symbol of the people.

"It is the king who serves his people..."

That was the statement Arturia professed without hesitation or doubt. Words that can only be spoken by a truly selfless individual. Cassandra truly hopes that someone like this will stay in this world for a long time.

"It may be impossible..." Cassandra begins, looking at the dancing crowd, "...But it would be nice if moments like these could last forever."

Arturia's emerald eyes soften at those words, clearly agreeing with such a well founded wish, "That's something I pray for every night."

For a time, they stood there simply in observance, content to not say anymore, and simply enjoyed the scene of their comrades - after months of suffering and deaths - finally escaping from all their troubles.

The moment was short-lived, however, when the war bell rings at a nearby tower.

Arturia's and Cassandra's shoulders go rigid. Their expressions falling as the Seeker looks towards the sound, "What...? It can't be..."

They heard a new commotion from the camp, and the party at once stopped. Sounds of hurried footsteps rushed through the snow, and they spotted Cullen from the crowd.

"-Forces approaching! To arms! Everyone!"

The joyful air came to an end as soon as the commander uttered those words. Many who were drunk instantly sobered up, and the crowd quickly disperses to gather their armor and weapons while the others start running to the safety of the Chantry building, visible panic amongst the citizens.

"Who would attack us now?!" Cassandra demands as she unsheathed her sword, "We must get to the gates-"

As soon as she turns, Arturia is already gone. She spots the girl bringing out her sword at once and rushes for the defenses.

'Always ready, that one...' Cassandra thinks to herself before hurrying after the knight with much haste.


"Cullen! Josephine!"

Arturia arrives at the entrance of Haven, quickly approaching the two advisors. With her invisible sword at hand, she stands in front of the pair. A habitual air of authority exuding as she addresses them, "What's happening?"

"One watch guard reported a massive force in bulk over the mountains," Cullen points out beyond the sealed gates.

"Leliana's scouts were stationed there," Josephine states, nervousness tinting her usually controlled and concise way of speaking. "We should have received a warning before the army would come this close."

'Which means they were all killed before any of them could ring the alarm.' Arturia's eyes narrow as she looks at the gates. "Under what banner do they carry?"

The commander answers grimly, "None."

Behind them, Cassandra catches up to her colleagues, a short breath under her haste, "None? Then none of us know who we are dealing with?"

"They could be trying to hide their identities," Josephine reasons with a tentative brow. "Insurrectionists, maybe? Those who felt no justice in the Mages and Templars coming to a truce?"

"These aren't farmers. No civilian would have the power and resources to garner such large forces in such a short time," Cullen argues. "We might be dealing with their defectors - those who escaped the Templar massacre or worked with Alexius. The question is which one?"

"-both! The answer is both!"

Arturia hears and almost recognizes the familiar voice of distress passing the gates. She holds her sword readily as a flare of magic is seen underneath the doors. Pounding against the wood, something demanding their entry.

"They've arrived already?!" Josephine exclaims in panicking shock. How can their enemies be at their doorsteps this quickly!?

"Magic, I suspect." Suddenly behind them, Leliana announces herself in an even voice, though one can see the tenseness in her posture in response to the situation at hand. "They're sending them in smaller numbers first. If not for that watch guard, they would have slipped past the barricade already."

She turns to Josephine with a sharp look in her eye.

"We must gather all non-combatants and get them somewhere safe. We will hold these invaders off until we figure out what we're dealing with here, and find a countermeasure." The Spymaster of the Inquisition then sharply turns for the commander, "You're up first, commander."

There is a lot to look into that simple statement. Provide time to grant the villagers shelter and defense. An escape route even, as something increasingly necessary as time goes on. Cullen nods, and he, with Cassandra vigilantly close to him, stands side by side with Arturia at the front. Leliana quickly takes to Josephine's side, who understands what their next course of action must be. Together, they step away and hurries to warn the others.

"I can't come in unless you open!"

'That's Cole!' Arturia is certain of it now, and she rushes for the gates. Cullen and Cassandra are close behind, ready to face whatever threat is awaiting on the other side of the door, hearing all the commotions of what sounded to be death itself.

With a shared nod, they push through the doors, ready to join the fight.

They are greeted by the sight of bodies littered across the snowy ground. All in armor and fading mystical enchantments, yet not one among is of the Inquisition's men. In front of them, a sole soldier steadily walks towards them, losing the sensation in his limbs, and then ultimately falls with a dagger into his back.

The rogue with his oversized hat reveals himself, pulling the dagger off the body and watching as the enemy falls. Cassandra and Cullen are bewildered by the appearance of the rogue, but Arturia instantly recognizes him. "Cole!"

"You know him?" Cassandra asks in disbelief, eyeing the rogue with suspicion as she still holds her sword defensively.

"That I do," The knight replies with confidence. There is no time to elaborate further as she directly addresses the spiritual rogue. "Cole. I take it you took care of these men yourself?"

"I did. I came to warn you. To help! But they came quicker. Their magic…"

Cole holds his head as if to fight off a coming migraine. He shakes it briefly. "People are coming to hurt you. You must run!"

"Who is it? More of Alexius's men?" Cullen questions.

Cole shakes his head once more. "Not just mages. Templars also. All of them. They came to kill you, Arturia."

"Both the mages and the templars?" Cassandra has to say it openly so as to comprehend the madness of such a union – ironic as it sounds.

"For what purpose? What the hell are those renegades thinking?! When both the Templar Order and Mage Rebellion have chosen to lay down their arms for the greater good!" Cullen demands, finding no sense in this reckless display of rejection. "If they're against this, they shouldn't be working together themselves. Let alone attack us blindly!"

"It's not just your treaty," Cole explains cryptically. "You took them away, from them."

"Them?" Arturia asks.

"The Elder One," Cole answers with a slight shiver in his tone. A name that struck a chord in all of them. "They know you, Arturia. They've come for you. To remind you of what you lost…"

'What?' Arturia is taken aback. This Elder One, could they know who she really is…?

"I have a bad feeling about this…" She hears Excalibur resonate, his words echoing in her mind as everyone looks up to the mountains.

From afar, appearing on the cliffside, an armada of both templars and mages – garnered in red, tread down the slopes for Haven. Two generals stood at the top of the cliff, a blonde young woman with a magical spear, and an armored pale man holding an ancient great sword.

And coming up between them, the mastermind finally shows themselves.

It has...a humanoid appearance. Their body pale skin and bones, covered in an intricate armor of drapes and enchanted metal. Their head is covered in red stones, like a helmet as scars cover their aging face, a deep loathing in their grimace as they catch immediate sight of the knight in blue at the front of the gates.

"Maker's breath...Samson?!" Cullen looks as if he is seeing a ghost as soon as he spots the Templar standing beside the Elder One.

"The Elder One's very angry with you. You ruined a lot of things for them," The pale blonde man continues to inform Arturia. "This isn't all of them, just so you know…"

Arturia glares back at the imposing inhuman figure at the cliff, refusing to downplay the intensity of her gaze even as the Elder One directly stares back just as heatedly. "Cullen. You seemed familiar with that templar up there."

"That is Samson. One of the finest Templars in the order back in Kirkwall before he was dismissed by Knight-Commander Meredith." There is a hint of remorse in Cullen's eyes as he adds. "He will not make this easy. Haven is no fortress. We had contingencies in place to help us repel any attackers, but now that it's come this far, if we are to withstand this whole army, we must control the battle. Dwindle their numbers. Use everything you can."

Arturia clenches her marked hand. 'I'm still drained after sealing the Breach.'

She couldn't rely on her magic or more advanced attacks with Excalibur yet. She'll need to use something else. But what?

As Cullen returns to the fort, where men and women are at arms, ready to defend, Arturia's eyes wander over to the closest contraption at her disposal.

The catapult sits patiently.

"That'll do."


The use of the catapult brings the Inquisition time.

After firing it for the mountains, it caused an avalanche that buries red templars and red mages alike, blocking their route. Although it seems to have completely buried most of their armies, Arturia doesn't expect it to hold them for long, not even when the people around her applaud for her quick thinking. She turns to Cullen, who is joined by Varric.

"Have the archers at the walls. Use this opportunity to fortify Haven!" Arturia asserts before turning to the dwarf. "Varric, have you seen Sera?"

"She's with Leliana last I saw her. They're working to move all the villagers out of Haven before things get too-"

There is a strong wind that breezed through them, a biting cold in the air.

"-crazy…"

They turn back to look at the mountains. The avalanche that buried the route of their enemies begins to pile up, and continues to rise.

There is a path that is beginning to clear through the snow, moving by the mere gesture of the Elder One who stands by the cliffside. A sinister smile on their face, as if a stone was simply thrown at them, and all they did is kick it away.

"That's no normal magic."

Arturia does not break her gaze away from the leader of the invasion as Dorian walks up to the group from behind. "I hate to say it, but-"

The sound of thunder breaks from the clouds, leaving a resounding rumble in Arturia's chest that has her – and many others - freeze in place.

"-I believe we are outclassed here."

Flying over the mountain's peak, a winged black and red beast emerges. The sight of it brings an instant terror to the many soldiers of the Inquisition.

"You're going to need a lot more arrows against an Archdemon," Dorian couldn't help but whisper out a small joke even at the horrifying face of a legend-made reality.

The dragon on the mountain peak roared. Its voice causing the very air to tremble, and it flew for Haven.

"TO THE KEEP!" Cullen commands at the top of his lungs, and every able-bodied person follows without question.

The red and black dragon spits out a ball of fire, and it hits the catapult, instantly turning it to pieces and ashes. Everyone retreats back into Haven, and the dragon flies over their heads, raining fierce snow and wind as if to knock them off their feet. Arturia races past the gates to follow the beast, watching it take to the sky quickly.

For such a beast that leads the Blight itself to arrive here at all, while everyone is exhausted. This is a terrible omen.

There is never an opportunity for her to use Excalibur's full power, not when she can easily finish all tasks given to her with her swordsmanship and magic alone. But against that? She needs it more than ever. It is the only way she could imagine defeating that Archdemon before it can do any lasting damage. The enemy is an opportunist strategist, to attack her right after she used every ounce of energy to seal the Breach. But where in blazes did they acquire such power and assailants?

"We need everyone back to the Chantry!" Cullen directs. "It's the only building that might hold against that beast."

Arturia nods at the man, grimly stating, "They have us bested by air, but we won't let them think we're easily beaten."

"No," Cullen agrees with a hardened look. "We'll make them work for it."


The distant crackle of flames echoes through the night air, a haunting reminder of the chaos that engulfs Haven. As Harritt stumbles out of his humble abode, his eyes widen in horror at the sight of yet another attack. Memories of the previous devastation in his hometown flood his mind, igniting a primal fear within him.

His family hammer lies just within reach, a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos. With a sense of urgency, Harritt reaches out, his injured shoulder protesting with each movement. But before he can grasp it, a sudden obstacle blocks his path - a barricade of boxes, strategically placed by fate itself to impede his escape.

"Cassandra! I'm over here!"

The cry pierces through the chaos, a beacon of hope amidst the despair. And there she is, the Herald, charging towards him with determined strides. With a swift motion, she slashes through the obstruction, clearing the way for Harritt to retrieve his prized possession.

With the hammer firmly in his grasp, Harritt wastes no time in making his escape. The Herald stands in the way of the monsters chasing after him, a steadfast guardian amidst the chaos. Though her presence is fleeting, it is enough to bolster his resolve as he charges towards the safety of the Chantry.


The order she was once proud of now stands as a twisted reflection of its former glory. Lysette watches in horror as the Red Templars, once valiant defenders of the light, descend into madness and violence. Their monstrous forms seem to embody the very darkness they once fought against, a chilling reminder of the corruption that plagues their ranks even now.

As chaos unfolds around her, Lysette knows that she has to act fast. With a sense of determination, she steps forward, her blade held aloft against the tide of darkness. But amidst the chaos, she feels a strange sensation wash over her - a protective barrier, like a shield against the encroaching darkness.

Glancing to her side, Lysette's eyes widens in disbelief as she sees the Herald, standing tall and resolute beside her. With a fierce determination, the Herald unleashes a torrent of spells with her mage staff, striking down their twisted foes with relentless precision.

"Good work, Herald! Protect the Chantry," Lysette calls out, her voice filled with gratitude and admiration for her newfound ally at her side.

As they make their way towards the safety of the Chantry, Lysette can't help but feel a sense of awe at the Herald's unwavering courage. In the midst of the darkness, she is a beacon of hope, a symbol of resilience in the face of overwhelming odds.


The flames consume everything in their path, devouring Flissa's beloved tavern with ruthless efficiency. Trapped beneath the wreckage, she can do nothing but pray for salvation, her cries drowned out by the roar of the inferno.

But just when all hope seems lost, a familiar voice cuts through the chaos like a ray of light. It's the Herald, rushing to her aid with unwavering determination. With a strength born of desperation, Flissa reaches out, her hand grasping onto the lifeline offered by her savior.

In moments, the Herald has lifted her from the rubble, cradling her in her arms with gentle care. With each step towards safety, Flissa feels a sense of gratitude wash over her, a deep-seated appreciation for the selflessness of her rescuer.

"I knew you would come. We are all blessed," Flissa murmurs, her words a heartfelt expression of gratitude to the Herald who has saved her from certain doom.


The dragon's roar echoes through the night sky, a chilling reminder of the danger that lurks in the shadows. Minaeve's heart races with fear as she watches the chaos unfold before her, her mind struggling to comprehend the magnitude of the threat they face.

Beside her, Adan lies wounded and helpless, his life hanging in the balance. With trembling hands, Minaeve reaches out, desperate to tend to his injuries. But before she can even begin, a familiar figure emerges from the chaos - the Herald, charging towards them with determined strides.

With a sense of urgency, the Herald tends to Adan's wounds, her hands moving with practiced skill as she works to stabilize his condition. With each passing moment, Minaeve feels a sense of relief wash over her, a silent prayer of gratitude for the Herald's timely intervention.

"Herald, what's happening? Maker, thank you. Thank you!" Minaeve exclaims, her voice filled with gratitude as she watches the Herald's valiant efforts to protect and save those in need.


The battle rages on around them, a relentless onslaught of violence and chaos. Threnn fights with all her might, her blade slicing through the ranks of their enemies with ruthless efficiency. But with each passing moment, the tide of battle seems to turn against them, their forces dwindling with each passing moment.

Just when all hope seems lost, a figure emerges from the chaos - the Herald, charging towards them with unwavering determination. With a fierce cry, she unleashes a torrent of spells from her mage staff, striking down their enemies with devastating precision.

As they fight side by side, Threnn can't help but feel a sense of gratitude towards her newfound ally. In the midst of chaos, the Herald has been their salvation, a symbol of hope in a world consumed by darkness.

"These shits almost had me. Herald, I didn't expect this from you but thank you," Threnn calls out, her voice filled with gratitude and admiration for the Herald's valiant efforts before going with her to the Chantry building for safety.


Fire continues to rain down all around them as the people of Haven retreat into the Chantry. Victims burning under the dragon's breath. Their homes set aflame. Every member of the Inquisition offers assistance to whomever they can.

The Iron Bull, with the assistance of his Chargers, lifts the hot beams off of the trapped victims. Blackwall is there to assist, pulling villagers out from the rubbles with the Templars helping him.

"Get to the Chantry. Don't stop for anything. No matter what!" Blackwall tells the people, and they do so, helping each other along while they bare through the pain of their scarred flesh and bleeding cuts.

"Chargers! Carry the wounded and bring them to that building!" Iron Bull commands. "If they can't walk, get someone who can! Make them be their legs. Splash ale on their faces if you have to!"

Solas and Vivienne join their strength together to provide cover and ward off the flames with their combined usage of magic, supported by mages all around them. Solas shouts through the smoke, "Don't waste your magic dowsing the flames, guide it away instead! Clear the air!"

"Shield the villagers! Focus on cooling the path for the others to escape through!" Vivienne yells as she casts another shielding magic for a passing family, keeping them safe from falling, flaming debris.

"Come on! Come on! Get your feet moving! Quicker than that!" Sera shouts at the top of a cart, gesturing wildly to the main building for their only solace remaining. She immediately shrinks at the sound of the dragon's roar. "Shite!"

"Time to hightail, Buttercup!" After helping a couple of children along, Varric skids to a stop from the side and offers his hand to Sera. "There's no saving this place. We're getting out of here!"

"You don't have to tell me twice!" Sera grabs Varric's hand and hops off of the cart. Together, they run with the others towards the Chantry.

All do what they can, bringing the injured along even at their own expense. Under an exhausted breath but vying to keep going ever further, Arturia's teeth grit at such a ferocious display, the desperation and fear in the people, the hurt in several others. The deaths. Burned corpses that looked so eerily similar to the ones at the Conclave. She glares up at the dragon that attacks them.

"Coward!" She feels her Dragon Blood screaming. The dragon in the sky seems to roar back in response.

Through the open doors of the Chantry, Chancellor Roderick struggles to call the people inside, holding around his waist. "Keep going! Don't stop!"

Arturia is the last outside, ensuring that no one is left behind, and then rushes right into the building, allowing the doors to be sealed.

As soon as she does so, she notices the chancellor leaning too close to the side, barely keeping himself up at the doors. The knight stops at once and catches him on instinct. "-! You've been wounded!" Picking up how pale the Chancellor is, the only color on his face coming from the bags under his eyes.

"A Red Templar slipped in earlier." Behind her, Cole explains, following her close by as she leads the wounded man further into the Chantry. "She and a Red Mage were going to lock the Chantry. Have everyone scorched outside. Roderick stopped them."

Dorian comes up to them, brushing off as much dirt and blood on his person as he can. "He called out for us and we dispatched them quickly. It was very brave of him. He saved a lot of lives doing what he did."

"Feh! It's nothing brave. I'm no templar…" Blood is coughed up in Roderick's throat. As gently as she can, Arturia brings the chancellor over to the wall, and sets him down. The main hall of the Chantry had wounded all around. Burn marks on several of them, but due to Roderick's actions, many were saved from the worst offense imaginable.

"He's going to die."

Arturia looks blankly back at Cole's bluntly and offputting statement.

Roderick finds the strength to snort. "What a…charming boy."

"Not exactly comforting words, you know?" Dorian quips before his eyes soften. Even the atlus mage can see that the wound in Roderick is a fatal one. "I can slow the bleeding, but there was some kind of poison in the blade. It's eating away any healing effects. I'm not even sure a potion would help much…"

"Arturia!" Cullen runs up to the group, grabbing their attention. "Our position is not good. Any time you might have earned us was stolen by that dragon, and with their leader at work, they'll break through the gates. Vivienne and I have sent a couple of our own mages and templars to hold them back, but they won't survive for long."

"There's the Archdemon too," Cole reveals, adding more grim news to their increasingly bleak situation. "I was in the Fade, but it looked like that."

"Sorry, could you repeat that?" Dorian nearly exclaimed with a raise of his finger. "Did you say you were in the-"

"Never mind that!" Cullen cuts off. "In several minutes, they'll have their path. Once they arrive, they'll kill everyone in Haven."

"The Elder One doesn't care about the village. It's the Herald he wants," Cole reveals, meeting Arturia's gaze with an ounce of worry. "He will kill them, though, if they get in his way."

The knight dwells on that information. A concerning silence not unnoticed by the others.

"Don't go considering something selfless now," Dorian instantly snaps the knight out of her thoughts. "I'm quite certain this Elder One plans to kill all of us anyway."

"He is right," Cole states with a shake of his head. "I don't like him. He's too loud."

"You could say that again," Dorian answers with a huff. "A little too 'showy' that one is."

"Would you two-!" Cullen bites down the words frustratingly, and he turns his focus back onto Arturia. "Arturia. I'll be upfront. There are no tactics to make this survivable. And with the time we have now…"

A sense of defeat makes its way in his gaze before he hides it with a determined look. "We can stall their army. Fight to our last breaths here. That'll allow you and the rest here at Haven to flee."

"That is unacceptable," Arturia's response is curt and clear and brokers no argument. "I am not abandoning any of you."

"Whatever his plans are, you are the key to stopping it," Cullen retorts. "He wants you. That means he's afraid. You have to be the one that survives this. There's no time for discussion. You must leave."

The knight opens her mouth to decline, but another quick interjection is met. "I will not break my promise to you again. I swore I would watch your back, and I will. You must-!"

"Wait." The dying utterance of Roderick calls to the members. His bloody hand reaches out for them. "There is... another way..."

Arturia returns to Roderick's side, clasping his blood-drenched hand with her silver gauntlet.

"You wouldn't know it unless you've made the Summer Pilgrimage, as I have." Roderick clenches Arturia's hand tightly, pulling himself up as the knight helps him stand. "It was on a whim that I stumbled upon it. After the Conclave's destruction, I might be... the only one left who knows. I don't know if this simple memory can save us. But… it could be more than an accident. You..."

He looked at Arturia with newfound hope. These last several months of him hearing, and observing the leadership of the Herald before him. It instilled in him a growing respect, and eventually, faith.

"You could be more. The people can escape. Andraste must have shown me… so that I could tell you..."

"If that route exists, then there may be some of us who can survive yet," Dorian says, moving to Roderick's side, taking him from Arturia's hold. "I'll go with Roderick, and lead the troops."

"I'll go too," Cole offers, offering his support to Roderick as well before he looks to Arturia. "Someone needs to keep that dragon busy, though. I can't fly."

"We'll provide cover," Cullen adds on, looking back at Arturia. "We'll use whatever catapults we have left and distract that beast. I'll rally the willing, and then we'll-"

"No."

Arturia's commanding voice echoes in the main hall, enough to have most around her freeze in place.

"I will stay. The rest of you can go. All of you."

Eyes widened at their understanding of such an order, and then...

"What do you mean all of us?" Cassandra barks up as she marches up to the group. The cuts in her armor and the light bruising on her face do nothing to lessen the effect of the glare she is throwing at the girl, demanding her to elaborate as the rest of her companions heard the commotion, joining not too long after.

"I'm saying I alone will fight that beast," Arturia announces with a steadfast voice, unwavering emerald eyes staring directly at the Seeker's own intense hazel orbs. "My resistance against magic will protect me from it's flames. I've already tested this. It's magic cannot harm me. I will distract it while the rest of you follow Roderick's guidance, and evacuate everyone."

"You are not staying behind!" It is a fierce statement shouted by the Seeker, refusing to follow such an order.

"Arturia. What you're suggesting is suicide," Dorian hisses with a pressing voice. There is no hint of his usual jest or pompous attitude in him now as he looks at the youthful knight in front of him. "Even if you can resist that dragon's breath, you still have that army to worry about. You'll risk facing the Elder One yourself. You've seen what he's capable of!"

"You're also exhausted after sealing the Breach." From the hall, a clearly exhausted Solas shuffles up to the group followed by an equally tired Vivienne leaning more heavily on her staff than usual as he speaks, "You don't even have your own magic to rely on."

"I can stay. I'll stand with you against those monsters," Blackwall steps up with a hand over his heart. "No one should have to fight their battles alone."

"I second that," Cullen asserts, worry and frustration clear for all to hear. "But you also don't need to put your life on the line, not like this. We'll have someone else. I'll-"

"Anyone else would instantly turn to ash the second they face that dragon's fire," Arturia counters. "Haven is lost. If we are to lose it, then it'll be by our own terms. But I refuse to accept whatever the cost if it means many lives will end with it. Anyone else would be killed quickly, but I can provide you the time you need to get everyone - everyone here out of Haven. Every single one of you must reserve your energy to protect the villagers and the remaining troops. You must think of them. For their family's sake."

"But why do you have to do it alone?" Sera practically shrieks out, a hand over her head, her short blonde hair between her fingers. "That's just crazy, Turi! You'll get yourself killed!"

"She's right. I'm with you, Pancakes. Call me a softie if you want, but I'm not a big fan of cliffhangers, or how this book ends. With you fighting by yourself," Varric supports as he gets ready to load up Bianca.

"I will not be alone," Arturia assures. A gentle expression worn as she turns for the doors. "Not anymore. I will have each and every one of you in my heart. Do not think this is suicidal. I intend to survive this, and I will come back to you. You have my promise."

"Hardly everyone is able to keep their promises," Vivienne retorts sharply, sounding strained, a displeasing grimace in her expression. "And yet, I somehow can't find myself doubting those words. Still, you'll have a greater chance at survival if you have us by your side."

"I'm up for that," Iron Bull rumbles as he rolls his shoulder blades, having his war hammer ready. "I mean, who gets to say they've fought against a dragon, Eh?"

"...It's no use."

From the side, everyone looks at Cole. The rogue stares sadly at Arturia. "She's made up her mind. But... she doesn't plan to die. She means that."

"That's not enough for me!" Sera yells, and she makes her way to the front, grabbing Arturia by her hand in desperation and worry. "Come on, Turi! Let's just go! Or- Or at least let some of us fight with you. If I have to punch that ugly lizard in the mug, then, then-!"

Cassandra steps up right next to her and grabs Arturia's shoulder firmly. "You are not going out there alone. It's unanimous. All of us will fight with you. I will stand here and fight with you. If I have to fight you for that to happen, then so be it. There's nothing you can say to change my mind on this."

Arturia stares at the woman unflinching. The Seeker's words are ringing true and from the heart. The knight sees it herself.

Arturia slowly nods in acceptance, "No. I suppose not."

Clearly, there is nothing in this world that can change Cassandra's mind.

Thankfully, Arturia is not of this world.

It happens almost instantly.

A swift jab to the jaw that the Seeker can not foresee in time, and just like that, the warrior is out stone cold right there and then. Sera jumps back with a shriek as the knight catches Cassandra easily. The act shocks everyone, a variety of reactions from the group.

"I will not lose any more tonight. Nor will you lose me. I will face these impossible odds on my own terms, and come back to you," With an ice-cold tone, Arturia stares back at her group one last time. "Anyone else care to disagree?"

There is none. Very evidently so. Good.

After looking over the room for any hint of disagreement, Arturia strides over to Varric and hands Cassandra's still figure over to him, the dwarf carefully adjusting the body onto his person. "...You know she's gonna kill you when we meet up again, right?"

There is no if now. Only when.

Arturia nods, and after giving Cassandra to Varric, the knight turns back around, and without another moment of hesitation, she marches for the doors, and they open at the discretion of the abiding templar and mage, not wanting to let their remaining shield be broken down by the resolute knight, as she enters back out into the battlefield.

"...I'd say that right hook alone might be enough to take the Elder One by surprise," Dorian comments almost casually as he adjusts his holding of Roderick. "Righto! We best be off then. I don't exactly want to be the next person knocked unconscious if our dear herald finds us dawdling."

"You certainly have... quite the unrelenting leader..." Roderick manages out with a heavy wheeze. "Even so... I do pray for her safe return."

Cullen rubs his forehead as he groans to himself, "Leliana is not going to like this at all... I can't even imagine how Josephine will react."

One by one, the remaining inhabitants of Haven collectively retreat to Roderick's hidden path.

Though most are hesitant, it is clear that nothing is going to stop Arturia from doing what she intended to do. And yet, at the sight and sound of her resolve, their agitation swiftly left their hearts.

For when it comes to Arturia Pendragon, a promised victory is all that seems assured.


Through the walls of fire and crumbling buildings, Arturia dashes through the area. The champion roars of the dragon flying overhead filled the very sky, and it spits another fireball at the sight of a living being below.

It aims perfectly for Arturia. Fire and electricity scatter all around, but the knight braces through it. Her Magic Resistance nullifying the effects that would have killed anyone else. Fighting with her are the remaining mages and templars sent out by Cullen and Vivienne, and at the sight of the blue-silver knight in the midst of horrors, their hearts jumping with newfound hope, and they let out cheer in honor of the Herald of Andraste fighting alongside them.

The gates are broken through by the Red Templars and Red Mages, and rather than be met with despair, they are met with a war cry:

"For the Inquisition!"

This is Haven's last stand.

Arturia joins the battle, cutting down opponents left and right. Slicing across corrupted templars and mages alike. There are burned bodies being risen by the use of necromancy magic, and though Arturia's heart woes for them, her resolve has her slice through the bodies with her Excalibur, putting their spirits to rest, ending their magic and the casters who unleashed them. Her holy blade sings as she triumphs her way through the crowd.

She makes it to the remaining catapult. The dragon begins to turn back for Haven, ready to unleash another fireball. Before it can do so, Arturia pulls the lever, and the catapult releases another projectile. Its sphere hitting the dragon perfectly, and it collided with the beast's body.

The beast falters in the sky, but it holds on still, its endurance too great, and it swoops down for the knight.

Arturia takes a deep breath in, and she revves up her sword. Pain springs in her system as she channels what little magic is recovered in her body.

"Mana... Burst!"

Her sword unleashes a strong wind, and it cuts through the stomach of the dragon as soon as it is close. Her body is dowsed in more magical flames, and the area explodes all around her.

The impact knocks her away, but she is resilient against the magical effects. She gasps at another energy usage spent, her arms aching terribly after that attack, but at least the beast finally bleeds.

She jabs the blade of her sword into the ground and forces herself to stand, looking back up to the sky to see where the dragon is flying towards to next.

"-Here you are... the brave and honorable King of Knights."

Arturia stiffenens at the voice, and she turns to it.

Through the fire, the Elder One walks. They are like a skeleton, a demon straight out of hell itself.

"A true knight, but never a hero."

The knight glares at the foe before her, standing on her feet once more. She held her sword tightly.

"No... Always the pretender. Hiding your true face. Hiding your true self..."

The Elder One raises their sharp hands, dark magic swirled at their palm.

"Now you've come here. To this reality. Believing you could become king to these people. Just as you were once before."

They throw the magical energy. It zips past Arturia, shooting over her shoulder, and erupts behind the knight in a decimating explosion that would evaporate dozens of men at once.

Arturia is unphased.

"But enough is enough. You've had your era. You've had your kingdom. And you brought it to ruin." The Elder One retreats their hand and outstretches their arms. "This is my world. You've taken much from me already. I will not let you take this world also. No more..."

Arturia picks up her sword, "Then come and force it out of my hands. We'll see who among us has the right to remain in this realm."