CHAPTER ONE
New beginnings
The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm orange glow over Highever Castle. Alexander Thompson, now a knight of the realm, stood at the window of his chambers, lost in thought. Two years had passed since his arrival in Thedas, a world so different from the one he once called home, yet bearing unsettling similarities.
Under the tutelage of Aldous, Alex had delved deep into the history and politics of Thedas' nations, discovering the intricate web of alliances and rivalries. Mother Mallol had guided him through the teachings of the Maker, the dominant religion in Thedas, which echoed familiar themes from his own world. The plight of the elves, marginalized and oppressed, struck a chord within him, reminiscent of the racial tensions he had witnessed on Earth. Even the looming specter of the Blight, a cataclysmic event threatening to engulf the world, seemed to carry allegorical weight, a cautionary tale of destruction born from darkness and neglect.
His thoughts, however, were not solely consumed by the weight of Thedas' troubles. Alex had found a sense of belonging among the Couslands. His prowess with a sword, honed through rigorous training with Fergus and occasional sparring matches with the formidable Elissa, had earned him respect. The rare victories over Fergus and the stalemates with Elissa were cherished moments, forging bonds that went beyond mere camaraderie. Teryn and Teryna Cousland had come to regard him as another son, their warmth and acceptance a balm to the homesickness that still lingered.
Yet, as the stars began to twinkle in the night sky, Alex's reflections turned to the one aspect of his life in Thedas that remained shrouded in mystery and unease: his dreams. Or, more accurately, his awareness within the Fade, a realm that defied the laws of physics as he understood them. Initially, the Fade had manifested as eerie, deserted cities reminiscent of Earth, a surreal landscape that could be moulded by his will. The thrill of discovery had soon given way to concern, as his presence began to attract unwanted attention.
Spirits, ethereal beings with their own agendas, had started to seek him out. The first, a tempter, had offered Alex a chance to return to Earth, if he allowed it access to his body, a proposition he had steadfastly refused, banishing the spirit with a ease that surprised him. Yet, the spirit persisted, returning every few nights, a constant reminder of the choice he had made.
Another spirit, one of knowledge, had proven to be a more welcome visitor. Engrossed by Alex's tales of Earth and his insights into physics and other sciences, the spirit had proposed a mutually beneficial arrangement: in exchange for sharing its vast understanding of magic, Alex would regale it with stories of his world. These nocturnal conversations had become a highlight, offering Alex a glimpse into the mystical forces that governed Thedas, and perhaps, a key to unlocking his own, as yet unexplored, magical potential.
As night deepened, Alex steeled himself for another journey into the Fade, unsure what the realm might reveal, but ready to face its challenges, armed with the knowledge that in this strange, new world, he was not alone, and that with each passing day, he became more intertwined with the fate of Thedas.
On one fateful day, the clash of steel on steel echoed through the castle's training grounds, a symphony of skill and strategy as Elissa and Alex engaged in their latest sparring match. The air was alive with the intensity of their bout, each blow and parry a testament to the hours of dedication and trust they had built in their training together. The surrounding soldiers watched in awe, their murmurs of admiration weaving in and out of the clanging swords.
As was often the case, the match concluded in a stalemate, both opponents standing panting, their respect for each other's prowess evident in the nods they exchanged. Elissa, ever the spark of energy, was the first to break the silence, her voice tinged with a hint of excitement.
"Alex, I've just heard that a Grey Warden has arrived to see Father," she said, wiping the sweat from her brow with the back of her hand.
Alex's interest was piqued, his mind racing with the implications. "What brings a Warden to Highever?" he asked, his gaze locking onto Elissa's.
Elissa shrugged, her shoulders barely rising off her leather armor. "Rumors are circulating that they're looking for recruits. With the darkspawn horde spotted in the Korkari Wilds, the Wardens are likely gathering forces for the impending battle at Ostagar."
Her eyes sparkled with a mix of curiosity and concern. "There's also talk that you and Ser Gilmore might be tested for recruitment. Father's summons probably relates to this."
The call from within the castle, Teryn Cousland's voice booming across the grounds, interrupted their conversation. "Elissa, child, your presence is required in the great hall!"
With a swift nod, Elissa took her leave, leaving Alex to his thoughts. The mention of the Grey Wardens and the darkspawn horde stirred a deep-seated memory, a warning from a being beyond this world: Ariel, the angel, had hinted at the Blight being a cataclysmic event, one that could ravage the very fabric of Thedas.
Alex's resolve hardened, a sense of purpose crystallizing within him. He wanted to join the Grey Wardens, to stand against the darkness that threatened to consume this world. The weight of his decision was not lost on him; it would mean embracing a path fraught with danger, one that could lead to sacrifice. Yet, driven by the memory of Ariel's words and his own growing sense of belonging in Thedas, Alex felt an unshakeable conviction that this was the path he was meant to take.
As the sun began its descent, casting the castle in a warm, golden light, Alex steeled himself for what lay ahead, his heart pounding with anticipation. The test to become a Grey Warden, if it indeed came to pass, would be just the beginning of his journey into the heart of darkness, and potentially, into the very destiny that had brought him to this world.
After bidding Elissa farewell, Alex entered the grandeur of the great hall, his footsteps echoing off the stone walls. The room was dimly lit, the only sound the soft crackle of the fireplace and the muted hum of conversation from the three men awaiting him. As he approached, their faces turned towards him, their expressions a mix of curiosity and assessment.
Teryn Cousland, resplendent in his formal attire, stood alongside two individuals Alex had not met before. The first, Arl Rendon Howe, exuded an air of superiority, his gaze lingering on Alex with a hint of disdain. The second, however, captured Alex's attention entirely. Duncan, a Grey Warden, wore an ensemble of light metal armor and battle robes, adorned with the emblem of a griffin on his chest plate. The sword and dagger at his side seemed an extension of himself, a testament to his profession.
"Greetings, Alexander Thompson," Duncan said, his voice firm yet measured. "I am Duncan, of the Grey Wardens. We are in dire need of recruits for the impending battle against the Darkspawn, and Teryn Cousland has spoken highly of your prowess as a warrior."
Alex nodded in gratitude towards the Teryn, who returned the gesture with a slight incline of his head.
"I must assess your combat prowess," Duncan continued, unsheathing his longsword and dagger with a fluid motion. "Let us proceed to the center of the hall." He walked to the designated area, signaling for Alex to approach.
As Alex drew near, he unsheathed his red steel longsword, its familiar weight a comfort in his hand. Notably, he did not equip a shield or dagger in his offhand, a deliberate choice based on the spirit of knowledge's counsel to keep his offhand free for potential magical interventions. Duncan's gaze flickered to Alex's unencumbered offhand, but he chose not to comment.
Teryn Cousland intervened, his voice clear and authoritative. "Alexander, I want you to understand that this is not merely a sparring session. Duncan needs to see the full extent of your capabilities. Use everything at your disposal, and do not hold back. Guards, please excuse us, return after the test has been concluded." The guards in the great hall saluted before leaving the large room.
Alex's heart quickened, the Teryn's words serving as a tacit reminder that he had permission to utilize his magical abilities, a secret known only to the Teryn. With a deep breath, he tensed, awaiting the signal to begin.
The air was heavy with anticipation as Duncan assumed a stance, his eyes locked onto Alex. "Let us commence. Show me what you are capable of, Alexander Thompson."
The silence that followed was palpable, a moment of stillness before the storm. Alex's focus narrowed, his senses heightened, as he prepared to unleash the full spectrum of his combat and magical prowess upon the Grey Warden.
The test commenced with a burst of speed, Duncan lunging at Alex with both sword and dagger flashing in the dim light of the hall. Alex, anticipating the attack, sidestepped with ease, his movements a testament to his agility. However, instead of meeting Duncan's blades with his own, he raised a hand, and a shimmering magical ward materialized, deflecting the side swipe with a soft hum of energy.
"Ah, but that's not all," Alex muttered to himself, before unleashing a dazzling combo of attacks with his red steel longsword. Each strike was precisely aimed, weaving in and out of magical assaults. Fire spells danced across Duncan's defenses, forcing him to roll out of the way, while ice projectiles shot forth, nipping at his heels, keeping him on the defensive.
The sudden display of magical prowess caught Arl Howe off guard, his face a picture of shock. "Maker's breath, Bryce, you didn't tell me the boy was a mage!" he exclaimed, his voice echoing through the hall.
Teryn Cousland's response was a deep, rumbling chuckle. "We all have secrets we keep, Howe, Alexander's magical prowess is mine."
The Arl's grumble was lost in the intensity of the battle unfolding before them. Alex, now fully in his element, expertly deflected a quick flurry of attacks from Duncan's dual weapons. The last attack, a flashy move meant to disarm Alex was swiftly interrupted by a mind blast from Alex. The force of the blast sent Duncan stumbling back, momentarily stunned, and before he could recover, Alex performed a low powered fireball, striking true and blowing Duncan off his feet and disarmed of his weapons.
As Duncan regained his footing, a broad smile spread across his face. "Well met, young Thompson! I must say, I'm impressed. Your use of magic in tandem with martial skill is a rare talent. You've passed this test with flying colors."
Teryn Cousland stepped forward, a nod of approval on his face. "Well fought, Alexander. That was a beautiful sight indeed. Duncan here will seek you out tomorrow to discuss the details of your... new role. For now, feel free to carry on about your business."
Alex bowed, a sense of pride and trepidation mingling within him. "Thank you, my lord."
As Alex turned to leave, Duncan's voice followed him. "Until tomorrow, then. I look forward to seeing more of what you can do."
As Alex exited the great hall, his feet carried him towards the library, intent on sharing the tale of his triumph with Fergus. However, his path converged with Elissa's, accompanied by her faithful canine, Barkley. The trio adjusted their course, now heading to see Fergus together.
"Hey, how did the test go?" Elissa inquired, her curiosity getting the better of her.
Alex recounted the details of his victory against Duncan, but before he could delve into the specifics, they encountered the Teryna, Elissa's mother.
"Ah, no need for formalities, Alex. You're like family," the Teryna said with a warm smile, waving off the bow.
Her expression turned solemn as she addressed her daughter, "Go say your goodbyes to your brother. He's about to leave for war."
Elissa's face reflected concern, but she nodded, understanding the unspoken gravity of the moment.
"I love you, my dear girl, you know this," The Teryna said, as she grasped her daughter's hands.
"I love you, Mother," Elissa replied.
" Be safe, and take care of each other," the Teryna said, her voice tinged with a mix of sadness and resolve.
As the Teryna and Teryn arrived to bid their son farewell, Alex and Elissa took their leave, heading towards Fergus's quarters.
"What was that about?" Elissa whispered; her brow furrowed in concern.
Alex shrugged. "I think the Teryna's worried about Fergus and the Teryn."
Upon reaching Fergus's room, they shared their goodbyes, and Alex departed as the Teryn and Teryna arrived to spend private moments with their son.
Reaching the barracks, Alex encountered Ser Gilmore, Alex told him about the test Duncan conducted and how he won the duel, leaving out the use of magic. Ser Gilmore shared his excitement about being tested the following day. Their conversation ended with Ser Gilmore mentioning his eagerness to become a Grey Warden, sparking a mix of emotions within Alex.
As night fell, Alex retired to his quarters, exhausted. He found himself in the Fade, where Knowledge awaited. He told the Spirit about his test and how he had used magic and martial prowess to defeat the veteran warden commander, impressing him.
"Congratulations on your test, Alex. The wardens have indeed gained a valuable member in their ranks" Knowledge said, praising his apprentice.
"Tonight, we'll study Glyphs and Healing Magic," Knowledge began, and explained the nuances of Glyphs to Alex, then demonstrated a few before ordering Alex to perform them. After Alex had successfully cast all of them, knowledge then prepared to continue to healing magic, but their lesson was abruptly interrupted. The fade began to shift around them, reflecting the turmoil of the waking world. Knowledge looked concerned.
"Wait, Knowledge, what's—"
"Wake Up, Alex! Now! The Fade is disturbed. The waking world is in turmoil, go and investigate this disturbance, ad be safe young one!" Said Knowledge, with a tone of urgency.
Alex's eyes snapped open to the sounds of screams and clashing steel, the air thick with smoke. Ser Gilmore rushed in and quickly approached Alex, who was putting on his splint mail armor. "The Castle is under attack; I'm taking the guards and heading to defend the gates! Find the Teryn and his family, get them out of the castle, now!"
Alex nodded at the man, and with those urgent words, Alex sprinted out of his quarters, into the chaos that had engulfed Highever Castle.