CHAPTER FOUR

Road To Ostagar

The journey from the Circle of Magi to Ostagar was arduous, but the weeks passed with a mix of silence and conversation among the new recruits. Duncan led the way, ever vigilant, his eyes scanning the horizon as they crossed through the green expanse of Ferelden's countryside. They rode swiftly, stopping only, when necessary, the urgency of their mission pressing upon them like a shadow.

One evening, their path took them to Crestwood, a modest village surrounded by rolling hills and sat close to a massive dam wall that fed into a small lake next to the village. The air smelled of rain and fresh hay, a reprieve from the harsh wind that swept across the plains. They secured their horses at the stables near the edge of town and made their way to the village inn, a small, timber-framed building that glowed warmly against the twilight.

Inside, the inn was filled with the soft din of chatter and the clinking of tankards. Duncan sat them down at a corner table, his expression serious but patient. "Listen well, my recruits," he began, leaning forward so that his voice carried only to them. "The Grey Wardens stand apart from politics, noble expectations, and Chantry law. Your only duty is to end the Blight, no matter the cost. Understand that, and you will serve well."

The trio nodded, the weight of their new purpose settling on their shoulders. Duncan's eyes lingered on each of them for a moment longer before he stood and excused himself, leaving them to digest his words.

Elissa, leaning back with a sigh, broke the silence. "It's strange, isn't it? Being part of something bigger than just... us."

Alex smirked, a glint of mischief in his eyes. "Bigger than us, yes, but we're also about to become legends, no?"

Solona's laughter was soft, a rare warmth in the coldness that had settled over their journey. She turned her gaze to Alex, eyes playful. "So confident. I'll have to keep an eye on you to make sure that ego doesn't get too big."

"Feel free to keep both eyes on me," Alex shot back, grinning.

Elissa rolled her eyes, mock exasperation playing on her lips. "Maker, preserve us."

The night continued with shared stories and laughter, the tension of the day giving way to a moment of reprieve. But soon enough, exhaustion pulled at their limbs, and they retreated to their rooms, the quiet rustling of the inn and the soft patter of rain outside lulling them to sleep.

Alex drifted into the Fade as sleep claimed him, the dreamworld blooming into existence around him like an artist's canvas coming to life. It was a familiar place now, filled with shifting landscapes and shadows. But tonight, something was different. A voice, smooth and honeyed, cut through the mist.

"You seek power, don't you, Alex?" The voice belonged to a figure that emerged from the shadows—a woman of otherworldly beauty, with crimson eyes and a smile as sharp as a blade. She resembled a mythic version of Satyr, her elegance laced with danger.

Alex stood his ground, his jaw tightening. "Leave me, I don't need your help."

She circled him slowly, her steps silent as a cat's. "Oh, but I know things. I could tell you the right words to say to her, the way to make her yours." Her voice dripped with allure, each word sinking into his mind like a needle.

Alex felt the pull of the spirit's promise, but he pushed it aside, raising his sword. The metal caught the dim light of the Fade, reflecting his resolve. "I'm not here for that," he said sharply, swinging at her. The blade passed through her form, dispersing her into a shadowy cloud that melted back into the mists.

A moment later, the familiar presence of Knowledge settled beside him. The spirit's translucent form, robed and serene, exuded a calming glow. "A strong will, Alex," it said, voice approving. "Now, what would you like to learn tonight?"

Alex took a breath, steadying himself. "Tell me about blood magic. The real truth."

Knowledge's eyes seemed to darken, its expression shifting to something more serious. "Blood magic is fuelled by life, using blood in place of lyrium. The Chantry defines it through two primary aspects: sacrificial magic and mind control. But what they do not tell you is this—blood magic itself is not inherently evil. It is the thirst for more power that corrupts."

Alex listened intently, the words seeping into his mind as Knowledge continued. "Even the Chantry, through the Templar Order, uses blood magic for phylacteries, a practice rarely acknowledged openly. Remember, Alex, power is a tool. It is how one wields it that decides their path."

When Alex awoke at dawn, the weight of new understanding settled in his chest. As the others prepared for the final stretch of their journey to Ostagar through Lothering, he glanced at Solona.

The morning sun cast a golden glow over the sleepy village of Crestwood as Alex, Duncan, Solona, and Elissa made their final preparations. The scent of damp earth and morning dew filled the air, mingling with the distant sound of birdsong. The horses, well-rested and eager, stamped their hooves as the group mounted and set out on the winding road toward Ostagar.

Their journey took them south, through rolling hills and patches of dense forest, the trees whispering ancient secrets in the breeze. The road twisted and turned until they arrived at Lothering, a bustling village that served as a brief respite. They stayed the night at the inn, the fire crackling as travellers exchanged stories over tankards of ale. Elissa sat quietly at a corner table, fingers tracing the worn edges of a map as Alex shared a rare smile with Solona, who spoke excitedly about the different types of magic she had learnt in the Circle.

When dawn broke, they set out once more, the road leading them into the heart of the Korcari Wilds. The landscape shifted as they pressed deeper into the swamp, the air growing humid and heavy with the tang of wet moss. Vines twisted through gnarled trees, and the chorus of frogs and insects added to the sense of isolation. Suddenly, the towering silhouette of the ancient Tower of Ishal rose above the treetops, its stones weathered by time but still defiant.

Alex drew in a breath, a note of awe in his voice. "It must have been magnificent once, in its prime. A beacon for warriors."

Elissa's gaze followed his, eyes shadowed with thoughts of her brother, Fergus. She caught Alex's eyes and shared a silent exchange—hope mixed with worry.

As they approached Ostagar, the sound of clanging metal and raised voices grew louder. They dismounted, boots crunching on the gravel path as they stepped into the sprawling camp. Smoke from cookfires and blacksmith forges rose into the sky, adding to the heady scent of sweat, steel, and leather. Soldiers, both seasoned and fresh-faced, milled about, tending to their duties with an undercurrent of urgency.

Suddenly, the camp fell into a hush as King Cailan, clad in golden Armor that gleamed in the dappled sunlight, strode forward, flanked by his guards. His face was alight with a smile that spoke more of excitement than fear.

"Duncan!" Cailan's voice boomed across the space. "I could not pass up the opportunity to welcome the fabled Grey Wardens."

Duncan's lips twitched in what passed for a smile. "Your Majesty, we did not expect such a royal welcome."

Cailan laughed, a carefree sound that seemed almost out of place amid the grim preparations. "Nonsense! We will soon be riding into battle together against the darkspawn, though I doubt this is a real blight, there haven't been sightings of an archdemon. Could you imagine if it was one, a real blight? Ah the brave King and fabled Grey Wardens, riding off together, side by side, to face the darkspawn horde, A tale worthy of song."

Alex, standing beside Elissa and Solona, studied the king. The young ruler's enthusiasm, the gleam in his eyes—this was a man who spoke of battle as if it were a pageant, a stage for legends and glory. Alex's chest tightened, knowing that real war was far crueler than any story. It was not glory that lay ahead but blood, death, and survival.

Barkley, Elissa's loyal mabari, let out a bark that drew Cailan's attention, and the king chuckled. "Ah, even your hound seems eager."

The recruits exchanged polite greetings, and Solona dipped her head with practiced deference. Cailan's eyes lingered a moment longer before he excused himself to oversee the final preparations. As he departed, Duncan's face hardened.

"The king is right that we've not yet seen the archdemon," Duncan said, his voice low, as he watched the king leave. "But that does not mean we are not facing a Blight. You three, stay vigilant. The horde is real, and it is deadly." He turned back to Alex, Elissa, and Solona, his tone shifting to the no-nonsense authority they had come to expect from him.

"Listen carefully," Duncan said. "Find a Grey Warden by the name of Alistair in the camp. Inform him that he needs to gather the rest of the recruits and prepare them for the Joining. Solona, I know you're curious, but everything about the ritual will be explained in due time."

Solona's eyes, bright with academic fervour, dimmed slightly with disappointment, but she nodded. Duncan then turned to Elissa, his voice softening just a touch. "I need to speak with the king about Arl Howe's betrayal. He must be warned."

Elissa's expression was firm, a flicker of determination crossing her face. "Understood, Duncan."

He turned and signalled to Barkley, who trotted after him obediently. Alex exchanged glances with Elissa and Solona before they set off toward the old stone walkway that led into the heart of the camp. It still stood tall over the wilds, a testament to its age and the burden it had borne through countless campaigns.

The camp beyond was alive with movement—Wardens, soldiers, and commanders deep in discussion. The air thrummed with the tension of a storm on the horizon. They had reached Ostagar, and the battle for Thedas would soon begin.

As they walked, they passed an elderly woman clad in robes resembling those worn by First Enchanter Irving. Her presence exuded calm and wisdom, and Alex and Elissa both offered respectful nods. Before they could continue, Solona's eyes lit up, and she broke into a run, her robes fluttering behind her.

"Enchanter Wynne!" she called, embracing the older mage with warmth. "I heard First Enchanter Irving mention you were here, but I didn't think I'd actually see you!"

Wynne's eyes widened momentarily before softening into a smile. She returned the hug with a chuckle. "Solona, my dear! What are you doing here? I never thought Irving would let go of his most promising student."

Solona's smile faltered as she replied, "I'm a Grey Warden now. Duncan recruited me after... well, after Jowan's escape."

Wynne's eyes narrowed, concern threading through her features. "I see. Jowan... it does not surprise me, given the rumors. But I'm glad to see you safe, child." She turned her gaze to Alex and Elissa, her smile broadening. "And who are your companions?"

Solona gestured to them with a proud nod. "These are Alex and Elissa, fellow recruits for the Grey Wardens."

Alex stepped forward, offering a small bow. "It's an honour, Senior Enchanter Wynne."

Elissa inclined her head, adding, "Well Met, Senior Enchanter."

Wynne's perceptive eyes lingered on Alex for a moment longer, the hint of curiosity evident. "You're a mage, aren't you? Yet, you carry a sword instead of a staff."

Alex's lips twitched into a subtle smile. "I'm both, as strange as that sounds."

Solona gave him a sideways glance, her curiosity piqued again. "I meant to ask about that…"

Alex's smile turned rueful. "That's a story for another time."

Wynne laughed softly, the sound soothing amidst the chaos of the camp. "I look forward to hearing it someday. Stay safe, all of you. The world needs every brave soul it can get."

With farewells exchanged, the trio continued deeper into the camp, weaving through the rows of tents and makeshift stalls. The air grew thicker with anticipation, the tension palpable. It wasn't long before they came across a man in Grey Warden armor, his stance radiating confidence despite the slight smile on his lips. He stood arguing with a mage from the Circle, who stormed off with a disgruntled huff just as they approached.

The man turned to them, revealing his sturdy build and short, dirty blonde hair that spiked slightly at the front, with a neatly trimmed goatee on his chin. His brown eyes sparkled with a mix of amusement and exasperation.

"Ah, more recruits," he said with a grin. "The darkspawn do have a way of bringing people together. It's like one big, gloomy party, isn't it?"

Alex couldn't help but chuckle, and Elissa's eyes brightened with a smile. Even Solona relaxed a little.

"Alistair, I presume?" Alex asked.

"The one and only," Alistair confirmed, eyes darting between them. "And you must be Duncan's newest lot. What's the news?"

Elissa stepped forward. "Duncan needs you to find the rest of the recruits. We need to prepare for the Joining."

Alistair's expression turned serious, though his eyes retained their warmth. "Right. Let's get to it, then." He started walking, gesturing for them to follow. "So, tell me—how did you get roped into all of this madness?"

Their voices mingled with the distant clang of swords and the chants of Wardens as they moved deeper into the camp, the weight of what was to come pressing down on them all.

Alistair led Alex, Elissa, and Solona through the maze of tents and campfires, their eyes searching for the familiar faces of the other recruits. The air was thick with the scent of leather, sweat, and smoke. As they moved deeper into the camp, they approached a man leaning casually against a wooden post. His eyes were sharp and roguish, darting from side to side as if searching for his next mark. When he saw Alistair, he pushed himself up and gave a half-smirk.

"Ah, so the Grey Warden returns, in the company of some fine ladies too," the man said, folding his arms. "Name's Daveth. You lot must be the other recruits we have been waiting on. I hear we're being sent into the Wilds soon for some grand tasks."

Daveth's tone was playful, but there was an edge of nervousness beneath it. Alex exchanged a glance with Elissa, noticing the glimmer of apprehension in her eyes. Solona shifted uneasily, still curious about the Joining but keeping silent for now.

Alistair clapped Daveth on the shoulder. "Well, Daveth, you can join us or go wait over by the fire whilst we collect the remaining recruits."

Daveth raised an eyebrow, clearly still with questions, but willing to drop the subject. The group continued to wind through the camp, heading toward the training grounds where another man in polished but battle-worn Armor was practicing sword strokes. He paused as they approached, brushing a hand over his balding, dark hair and turning to face them. His broad chest and the disciplined way he carried himself spoke of his knighthood.

"Ser Jory," Alistair greeted. "Finished sparring already?"

Jory nodded, sheathing his blade. "Aye. I didn't expect to be called so soon." His gaze swept over the group, pausing briefly on Alex before he added, "I heard Duncan needed more strength for the Grey Wardens. I'm ready, whatever this entails."

Alex offered a respectful nod. "Well met, I am Alex, This is Elissa and Solona." He said, gesturing to his companions.

Jory's lips twitched in a small smile, his expression softening. "Well met, I did not know they allowed women in the grey wardens. At any rate, let us face whatever trial comes with the honour of being a Grey Warden."

Satisfied, Alistair turned to lead them further into the camp, stopping when they reached the makeshift infirmary. The heavy canvas rustled in the wind, revealing cots lined up with the injured and weary resting under rough blankets. On one of the cots sat an elven woman, her skin, sickly and pale, glistening with a thin sheen of sweat. Her short black hair framed high cheekbones and sharp, dark eyes that regarded them warily.

Alistair stepped forward; his voice gentler. "Lynna. Are you sure you are feeling up to this?"

The elf hunter rose, steadying herself with a hand before picking up her bow. Despite her frail appearance, there was a resolute strength in her posture. "I can walk, and I can fight, Warden Alistair." she replied in a lilting accent that made Alex's ears prick with curiosity.

"Okay, Good then." Alistair said, relief softening his features. "Everyone, meet Lynna Mahariel. She's a Dalish Hunter and was recruited by Duncan not long before his stop at Highever. She carries the taint, so becoming a Grey Warden is her only chance."

Alex exchanged a glance with Elissa, the weight of the situation settling in his chest. The Dalish were elusive, their stories shrouded in mystery. Having one among them was rare, and it reminded Alex of how disparate their group was—thieves, mages, knights, and now a Dalish hunter. All united by the looming threat of the Blight.

With all the recruits gathered, Alistair led them back across the camp toward where Duncan waited, the afternoon sun casting long shadows across the stone ruins. The noise of the camp dulled as they approached Duncan, who stood with arms crossed, his expression as impenetrable as ever.

"You've found them, good." Duncan said, eyes moving across the recruits. He took a deep breath, letting it out slowly. "Now comes the time for you to prepare. The Joining is a trial unlike any other, and only those who are worthy will become Grey Wardens."

The campfire crackled, the flickering orange light cast long, wavering shadows across their faces, highlighting the mix of anxiety and determination etched into their expressions. Duncan stood before them, his silhouette tall and resolute against the late afternoon sky.

"It is time," Duncan began, his voice low but clear. "For the first part of your initiation, you must venture into the Korcari Wilds. Each of you is to slay darkspawn and retrieve a vial of their blood. This blood is essential for the ritual that will determine whether you have the strength to become a Grey Warden." He paused, his gaze sweeping over them, settling momentarily on each face. "Alistair will accompany you, not only as your guide but also to retrieve old Warden treaties from an outpost deep within the Wilds. These treaties will be vital for mustering support should the Blight worsen."

The recruits exchanged tense glances, the gravity of the task settling heavily over them. The Korcari Wilds were infamous, spoken of in hushed tones by travellers and soldiers alike as a place where death lurked behind every twisted tree and shadowed path. Alex felt a knot tighten in his stomach but pushed it down. He had faced danger before, in another life, but the thought of darkspawn—the grotesque monsters that haunted the world—was different.

Duncan's eyes softened, if only briefly. "Be vigilant. The Wilds are treacherous, and the darkspawn do not spare those who are unprepared." He stepped back, nodding to Alistair, who rose with a wry smile.

"Well, nothing like a brisk walk-through monster-infested swamps to get to know each other better," Alistair said, his attempt at light humour drawing a few uneasy smiles from the recruits.

Daveth grumbled, clearly not pleased with the turn of events. "But there are monsters in the wilds, witches that will turn us into frogs..."

Solona adjusted her robes, her expression steely but the slight tremor of her hand betraying her nerves. Elissa stood silent, her jaw set with the determination of a noble who had faced betrayal and loss. Lynna, pale but resolute, shifted her weight and checked the string of her bow, ready to face whatever lurked in the shadows.

They bid Duncan farewell; nods exchanged with silent understanding. As they made their way toward the camp's gate, the guards on duty halted them. One of the guards, a burly man with a scar running across his cheek, glanced at them with a mix of pity and stern warning.

"Be careful out there," he said, his voice roughened by years of service. "The Wilds have claimed many lives. Stay sharp and watch each other's backs."

Alistair nodded. "Thanks for the reminder. We'll be sure to come back with all limbs intact."

The guard grunted, stepping aside to let them pass. The gate creaked open, revealing a narrow path leading into the dense, dark forest of the Korcari Wilds. The trees loomed like silent sentinels, their gnarled branches twisting skyward and blocking out much of the moonlight. The air was damp and heavy, carrying the scent of moss and decay.

With a deep breath, Alex adjusted his sword's grip and stepped forward, the first to break the threshold into the unknown. Elissa and Solona followed, their expressions grim, while Daveth muttered prayers under his breath and Lynna kept her eyes sharp, scanning the undergrowth for any signs of movement.

Alistair brought up the rear, his expression no longer playful but serious, the weight of leadership settling on him. "Let's stay together and move quietly. If we run into trouble, fight smart and protect each other."

The forest seemed to close in around them as they ventured deeper, the sounds of the camp fading behind until there was only the rustle of leaves, the distant hoot of an owl, and the subtle, ever-present sense of being watched.