Disclaimer: We do not own Dragon Age Origins or Elder Scrolls Series
Co-Author and Beta: Etheral-23
First daughter of the dragon
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Someone once asked; 'What is best in life?' The answer of course varied from person to person, often highly influenced by their altmer would say the best in life was live up to one's legacy, honing your craft through the centuries and elevate your standing in society. A nord would say the best in life was to bring down your foes and later sing about it with a mug of mead.
Sofie was inclined to that Nordic outlook in life, she was a nord after all, but she often thought it had more to do with how she grew up rather than her race.
Being an lonely orphan selling flowers in Windhelm, only to be rescued by grace of a woman's kindness, had taught her to always live life to the fullest. Miara's tales had inspired in her a wanderlust that only another adventurer could understand, and so as she grew up she honed her body to become a weapon of battle. The slim womanly form of a lady in her teenage years became a mighty muscular frame that did not sacrifice a drop of feminity, in fact it blended the best aspects of both in a way the nords considered very attractive. Well, the orcs did too.
Picking up a blade and magic, Sofie had found her calling as an adventurer, actively seeking to face mortal danger and explore the unknown. Truly, this was the life meant for her. Following in her mother's footsteps she would face monsters of all shapes and sizes, rescue people in need, and plunder through forgotten ruins.
Oh her mother was very worried about her, but Miara knew she couldn't deny her daughter's wishes when she herself indulged in the life of an adventurer. So her mother did all she could to make sure no mortal threat could overcome her, training her in both the ways of steel and spell. Going as far as to even grant her abilities beyond mortal prowess after consulting both Grandmother and Great Aunt.
To Sofie, that was best in life.
The offer of exploring a whole new continent was too tempting for the Nordic woman to ignore.
And this new world called Ferelden proved to be a true beauty of nature. This was why after splitting up with her family she went off the Imperial Highway and wandered throughout the vast lush forests and grasslands. She had a map of course but she always enjoyed going where her feet took her.
She was more like her mother in that aspect.
Thankfully when hunting for food while traversing Ferelden she did not learn Miara's very poor to nonexistent skills of the culinary arts. Jordis and Iona had been blessings by the Nine.
The birds were singing in the trees as the Nordic woman gazed at her map. Currently she was in the Southron Hills which as the name suggested was vibrant grassy mountainous area. By the looks of it she was nearing a small farm settlement.
"Lothering..." Sofie wasn't certain if was saying it right but shrugged and pressed forward putting away her map.
As to what the Blackstone Irregular liaison told her, plus what she kept hearing along the way, the forces rallying at Ostagar weren't too far away from that town. Using some old fortress as a bastion to muster a defense against these Darkspawn creatures brewing in the south.
Sofie preferred to keep a safe distance from the conflict, but considered it'd be smart if she could at least stay close enough to hear about new developments. Just in case she needed to inform her family. Truly, they had arrived in a complicated time. A country at war was never fun, for all the glory of battle, there was as much suffering from the innocents caught in between.
So she kept her pace, her course laid in for Lothering. She had yet to reach the village when she felt it, the familiar pulse of magic.
Her expression carefully guarded, Sofie approached with a cautious step, using a muffled spell to silence any sound coming from her, keeping close to the trees so she wouldn't be seen.
The closer she got to the source, the more she could feel the magic. It was very... primal. Pure nature power. Very pure.
Sofie had only felt such a magic a few times, from very experienced and powerful druids, and from spirits of nature such as elder fey, spriggans and the like.
"Marian, please, I beg you reconsider" A young woman's voice suddenly spoke, sounding worried.
"Oh please, you worry too much" Another woman's voice responded in a much more easy-going tone.
Peering through a large brush that kept her well-hidden she saw two young women with raven black hair much like her own. With one being wavy and down to the shoulders and other's being short, both had flawless pale skin and perfect figures dressed in simple cotton shirts and skirts with leather boots.
Sofie could tell by their features they were family, sisters most likely. Her mother had taught to pay attention to every detail.
"I'm serious Marian, what if the Templars spot us?" The wavy haired girl spoke up her concerns.
Marian simply rolled her sapphire eyes; "We're at least a good distance away from Lothering Bethany, plus the Templars have more pressing matters."
Bethany shook her head; "Mother wouldn't approve."
"Not the first I've done something she never found out about," Marian snorted as she knelt down and placed her hand on the ground. "Plus people need food, and with the refugees coming in I refuse to do nothing."
Sofie cocked her brow as she kept observing.
It was a small clearing amongst the tree that laid before the two women, confirming to her they were sisters if the long haired one mentioning a mother was any indication, the area couldn't be more than fifteen meters long and nine meters wide, the only vegetation present being the grass.
The short haired one, Marian, closed her eyes and seemed concentrate. The pulses of magic grew stronger, seeping into the ground. It dawned on the Nordic warrior that the magic she had been feeling was coming from this woman. Before she could ponder any more on the possibilities on someone possessing such a high affinity with natural magic like that, the effects of her power began to manifest.
It started with small saplings emerging from the ground, just little things that slowly elongated and sprouted leaves... in the span of a few seconds. In just a few seconds the clearing was filled with growing plants.
In one minute, the plants became half-grown trees.
In ten minutes, they were fully grown.
And in only a few minutes more, they were already bearing fruits. Apples, pears and the like. All looking perfectly ripped.
Sofie could not stop the widening of her eyes at such display of magic.
She had only seen true masters like Neloth, late arch-mage Savos Aren, or her mother perform such powerful feats. And such high level magic should be impossible unless you had years and years of training!
Who was this woman?
Marian beamed placing her hands on her hips; "That should help out the village." Bethany only sighed but found her elder sister's smile infectious and did the same. Soon the sisters went to pick up the fruits and placed them into two large weaver baskets.
That explained why they were wary of Thedosian Templars, Sofie mentally mused. Wouldn't matter how beneficial this type of magic was, this Marian and possibly Bethany would be locked away in a Circle. The thought made Sofie quietly snarl before she resumed her sojourn, leaving the sisters to their devices.
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A large windmill jostled by the breeze as Sofie came out of the forest and saw a modest sized farming village beside the Imperial Highway. A simple post and rail fence outlined the area with corn growing on one side and potatoes on the other. There were at least a dozen houses or less than that with a chantry and pub to complete it. Overall a small village that was currently cramped with an assortment of people wandering about.
The tents she could see in the front area of the village were already a bad sign. They weren't many, but Sofie had reminded herself she had yet to look further into the village. Given that the short haired one of the sisters had gone through the trouble and risk of growing so many trees as to feed the refugees meant there were a lot more people Sofie couldn't see at the moment.
What caught her attention was the sight of a giant of a man bound in a large square cell. He was physically imposing, a bit taller than the average nord but not as tall as an altmer. Impressively broad and muscular, his skin was almost bronze in color, his bare chest decorated with multiple stripes of body paint that followed intricate patterns. His hair was white and braided, and possessed two stern violet eyes. The strong features of his face locked in a perpetual frown. Overall he must have looked quite intimidating for most people here.
Said violet eyes followed her as she walked into the village, she met his gaze unflinchingly for a moment. "Nice day isn't it?" She casually said.
The large man grunted in reply, breaking their eye contact, seemingly finding it more preferable to stare at nothingness from the confinement of his cell.
Hmph, well the big guy wasn't interested in talking. Sofie shrugged as she continued, her eyes settling on the people at her right, there were multiple individuals, mostly humans, and a few elves, which showed obvious signs of tragedy having struck them. The solemn and grief stricken faces, the air of desperation due to their current situation. Sofie knew faces like those all too well; she hoped never to see them again...
She had never forgotten those days were her stomach ached from hunger and the cold that chilled her to the bone. How her Nordic brethren ignored her, and how some of the Dunmer in the Grey Quarter and Argonians at the docks cared for her when they could.
And she remembered her late father who proudly supported Ulfric and his rebellion...
Sofie shook away those dark thoughts as she gazed at the village. She shifted her eyes back to the man in cage who started reciting some prayer in a strange language. Gazing back ahead she strolled into Lothering.
Coming into the village proper she saw more tents and the mood somber with people and families keeping to themselves. At the pub she saw quite a few individuals drowning their sorrows outside or passed out from drinking.
Crossing a small stone arch bridge she finally saw the other half of the village, and things looked just as bleak. Besides refugees and residents Sofie saw Templars patrolling the village. Likely trying to keep the peace as best they could. But their numbers were small.
She let out a soft breath through her nostril, resting her hands on her hips as she stared at the village that was clearly not going through the best of times right now. Once upon a time, Sofie felt small and impotent at the face of such circumstances, unable to do anything.
But that was decades ago, Sofie was an adult woman, a very resourceful and driven one. She could not and would not stay idle.
Walking towards the Chantry, the made a soft sound of satisfaction upon finding what she was looking for. A notice board, now doubt there were petitions from the people here who needed some help.
...Make that a lot of help. Good grief there was a lot of papers from people requesting aid. From trouble with the local wildlife to rations and other resources being scarce. Perhaps she could start with something simple, bears and giant spiders would be no trouble for her.
"Glad to someone is considering helping at least" The muffled voice of a Templar who stood next to the board and the entrance to the Chantry voiced. "We've stretched thin as it is. Not helped by the fact the bann took his soldiers to fight at Ostagar"
"So..." Sofie slowly spoke; "It's only your group looking after everyone?"
"Yes ma'am. Ser Bryant, our commander, is doing what he can along with the Revered Mother and sisters, but we can only do so much." The Templar sighed heavily; "We need help."
Sofie gazed back at the board; "What needs to be done right now?"
"Right now we have Highwaymen praying on the villagers and refugees at the Imperial Highway. But they'll outnumber you; it would be your death if you faced them."
At that the Nordic woman snorted with a grin; "I'll be back in ten minutes." And to the Templar's surprise she was headed in the direction of the Highwaymen! He called out to her but she was not be swayed as she marched forward.
"Maker keep her safe," he muttered as he ran back for the Chantry.
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The moment she ascended the steps of the Imperial Highway did Sofie had gotten a good look at the highwaymen, there were only five of them. They were all sitting around broken down wagons and scavenging what they could off of crates. They were relatively well armed for bandits, leather armor that looked to be of decent enough quality, most likely having been looted from other people. Two of them had crossbows, Sofie made note to keep an eye of them. One had two axes on his back, another large warhammer, and yet another had a sword and a wooden buckler shield.
The one with a sword and shield noticed her; he smiled in a smarmy way that made her want to punch him in the face. He had a dark tanned skin and a closely shaved beard. "Wake up gentlemen, we're in the presence of a lady" He soon took notice of her stature, if that intimidated him he didn't let it show. "And a big one at that"
The crossbowmen took their positions, distancing themselves a bit, while the man with a warhammer and the other with axes approached. The former had dark hair and beard, while the latter had a dumb face. "I dunno boss" Oh, he not only looked dumb, he sounded dumb too. "Maybe we let this one pass" At least he had enough common sense to know they were getting into something way above their heads.
His leader, not so much, "Nonsense!" He waved it off. "Everybody pays the toll!" The cheerfulness in his voice just pissed her off so much. Like he felt no pity, not sympathy, nothing for the people he robbed and killed. All he cared was how much coin there was in his pocket.
Sofie hated bandits like him, they disgusted her so much. Her fist slowly tightened.
"But for you my lady we'll make a special offer!" He spoke like a shopkeeper. "How about only two sov-"
It was at that moment that Sofie had enough and struck. She had reached behind her back with blinding speed and pulled out her great-sword, bringing it down upon him with a speed he could barely keep up with. The metal easily cut through leather, flesh and bone, bisecting him from shoulder to stomach.
His companions cried out in horror and shock, while the lead highwaymen could only sputter as blood leaked from his mouth. In between the pain and sudden loss of sensation on his arms, he could only stare at how there was now a wedge between his neck and arm, going all the way down to his midsection, having cut through a lung, his stomach, and into his intestines.
Soon with loud splat the lead highwayman's upper-half slid hitting the ground with the remaining half followed collapsing forward. Sofie did not wait for the rest to prepare themselves dashing towards the idiot highwayman. Her body moved like a saber cat as she spun a full spin held her great-sword in one hand effortlessly. The idiot highwayman's expression was that fear as his remaining comrades saw a flash of light and the man's head and body severed from one another.
Sofie's blue orbs shone like a dragon's as she charged for the last three.
The crossbow wielders, desperate and frightened, struggled to load a bolt unto their weapons. The right one's fingers fumbled as the bolt cluttered to the ground, while the left bandit managed to load his, take aim and shoot. The projectile harmlessly bounded off from the steel on her shoulder pad.
With a quick skip, she closed the distance and kicked one of the two crossbowmen so hard he went flying back and into the ground. She twisted the great-sword in her hand, holding it on a reverse grip as the stabbed the other bandit in the chest with while she had her back turned to him.
The bandit with warhammer charged at her with a battle cry, hefting his large weapon and brought it down on her, seeking to reduce her head to a pulp.
Her hand lashed out like a striking snake, grabbing the upper part of the haft with her bare hand, stopping any momentum the weapon had in its tracks.
The bandit could only gulp in fear, the weapon seemingly stuck in her grasp. He trembled as those fierce some eyes stared directly into his soul, like the Maker himself was glaring down on him, judging him, and had found him wanting.
Sofie pried the weapon away from his grip with a tug, and swatted the hammer across face with a swift movement, hearing his neck snapping and his jaw cracking before he fell to the floor lifeless. She casually tossed the warhammer aside and gazed at the remaining bandit, the one she had kicked onto the floor.
He was crawling over the ground to get away from her, hastily getting up and nearly tripping in his desperation to run away. Sofie considered perusing him, but soon declined that idea. He was not worth the effort.
It was then she noticed one of that dumb bandit's axes. In no hurry, she walked over to his headless corpse and picked up one of the axes, twirling it around in her grip and testing its weight. She looked back at the escaping bandit and lifted the axe. The bandit, even amidst the fear and horror to the massacre of his comrades, felt a twinge of relief along with the rising hope that he would make it out of this alive the moment he realized she was not chasing him.
Only for a flying twirling axe to soar through the air and bury itself deep into his back.
Nodding to herself she turned her attention back to the other axe in her hand. This was far too well made to have belonged to that idiot for long. Likely stole it off a poor soul they murdered. The wooden handle was slightly curved with leather wrapping; the metal for the axe itself was of no type she had ever seen before. Simple but perfect by design, someone made these axes with care like a true smith. Her mother would be impressed.
Her gaze shifted over to the last bandit she killed who ran off.
Waste not what not as her mother always said.
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The chantry door swung open as the helmeted Templar ran alongside his commander Ser Bryant, a handsome tanned skinned man who did not wear a Templar helmet as his raven shoulder-length hair moved in the wind. His strong black eyes gazed at the Imperial Highway.
"She went alone?"
"Yes, commander!"
"By the Maker..." Regardless how good a warrior you were those Highwaymen weren't rank amateurs.
The only reason why he hadn't sent his men to take care of them was because there were only a handful of Templars in the village. If something were to happen to them then Lothering would be even more vulnerable than it already was, and they had enough problems as it was, and the bandits had taken advantage of that...
Ser Bryant grew ashamed as his fist shook in impotent rage. How could he call himself a Templar if he just allowed those honorless curs to act as they pleased. Now one single woman had chosen to face them while they stayed their hands.
This would not stand. Ser Bryant was about to order his men to ready themselves, they weren't going to tolerate those bastards any longer.
But it was at that moment that a very tall woman walked towards them, powerfully built, long dark hair with braids at the side of her face, strong blue eyes. She wore a plated armor of fine shining steel decorated with multiple engravings, fur lined gauntlets and greaves protected her limbs, with a great-sword strapped to her back and two axes hanging from her waist.
"That's her, sir" His subordinate informed him.
"Problem solved" The woman said with a smile, "The bandits won't be threatening the people any longer"
"You..." Ser Bryant's eyes widened in surprise, and he could feel his subordinate doing the same. "You killed them, by yourself?"
"They were hardly a challenge!" The woman barked a laugh.
"Then we're indebted to you" The lead Templar said with gratitude as he placed a hand to his plated chest. "I am Ser Bryant, I lead the Templars here. Please, allow me to reward you for your efforts"
"No need" The woman waved off his offer, "I'm just glad the people are safe now"
"Truly, you are kind soul" It was not the Templar who replied, but another much more feminine voice, one laced with a very noticeable accent.
Wearing a chantry priestess robe stood a tall and very beautiful woman with short red hair with a single braid. Her pale olive skin was flawless with full red lips and a richer blue shade to her eyes than Sofie's. The woman was a lovely vision indeed, the nord regretted that she was a member of the cloth as she grew curious to what she must look like under those robes. "It's rare to see an Avvar this far south."
"Likely because I'm not Avvar." Sofie chuckled at the inquisitive looks from Bryant and the Chantry priestess and the few people around listening; "My name is Sofie Redoran, I am nord from the lands of Tamriel."
It came as no shock to as she saw both surprise and suspicion in their eyes. Price for announcing being a foreigner in a once formally occupied land by another foreign nation for who knows how long.
The priestess meanwhile looked curious at the statement, and Sofie had to admit that was quite the cute look in her eyes. "Truly? I have not heard of Tamriel before"
"It's across the ocean"
"Oh my" Now did the lovely redhead looked utterly intrigued, the lovely accent rolling off her tongue was almost musical. "That's fascinating, I would love to hear about your lands"
Sofie couldn't help but smile back, finding the priestess' cheerful demeanor to be contagious. "I believe we can arrange that. Miss..." She prompted the priestess to introduce herself with a wave of her hand.
"Leliana, it's a pleasure to meet you"
"Mine as well" The nord replied, "But first, I believe there is still much to be done in Lothering. Right?" She said to Ser Bryant.
The Templar sighed, "I'm afraid that's true. The bandits where just one of the problems. We're also lacking in supplies, wild animals drift too close to the village and put the people at risk."
"What kind of animals?"
Leliana gave the answer; "Bears. They haven't entered the village, but they are far too close for us to be comfortable."
An understanding nod came from the Nordic woman; "Which side of the village have they been seen?"
The helmet wearing Templar thumbed behind him; "Other side of Lothering at the forest... You're not going to-." Before he could finish Sofie began walking; "You're serious?!"
"I've fought and hunted a few bears back home." Sofie spoke as she walked away from the three; "they may actually prove a better fight than those highwaymen."
Who in their right mind is excited to fight bears just after slaying bandits? That was the thought between Ser Bryant and Leliana as they watched the foreign woman leave.
XxX ~ xx ~ XxX
To say that Lothering had seen better days would be an understatement. Leliana's heart went to the families who lost it all with the ever growing advance of the Darkspawn horde, an air of fear and dread permeated the air at the thought of the monsters breaking through army at Ostagar to continue their unending campaign of slaughter and destruction. She wished there could be a way for her to dissuade their fears, but all Leliana could do was have faith and pray, for the soldiers who bravely fought for them in the south, and for the people who had lost their homes.
Lothering was not the refuge many thought it'd be, problem after problem kept piling up, increasing the tension amongst both villagers and refugees. First it was the highwaymen, thankfully taken care of at long last. But then it was the wild animals. The diminishing food supply and resources, the hungry that couldn't be fed, the wounded and sick that couldn't be treated.
The presence of a certain qunari trapped in the cage so close to them did not put people at ease, they all still remembered his crime very well...
The lay-sister damped a bandage in the pot of hot water before placing it on the forehead of a man who laid on the ground over a blanket. If they had more herbs they could ease the fever, but it was dangerous with the giant spiders and bears making their home close to the place where the herbs they needed would usually grow on.
"Leliana" Elder Miriam spoke, "Can you help me mix the poultice?"
The redhead's eyes softly frowned in concern, "Do we even have enough elfroot?"
The elderly woman sighed dejectedly, "This will be the last batch for now I'm afraid..."
Oh sweet Andraste. Leliana massaged the bridge of her nose, things were getting worse every day.
"Chin up girl" Bless the woman, elder Miriam still had optimism left in her. "Mayhaps that lady who arrived today can help us"
At the mention of the brave warrior, Leliana too felt her spirits lit up a bit. "She did take care of the bandits. We could ask her to help us gather herbs later. Once she returns from her current quest"
"Oh right" Miriam frowned in concern. "Those bears are no joke, I've seen beasts like that shrug off arrows and tear men apart. Truly, with all the creatures that roam the world, it says a lot that many hunters are hesitant to pursue them" She leaned in closer, "I even heard stories about giant bears that can be three times larger than even the most grizzly of their kin"
Oh Leliana was very familiar with such stories. Still, she had confidence in the newcomer. "Not to worry Miriam, I'm sure she... she will..." Her voice slowly lost her strength, her blue eyes widening in surprise.
Gasps and mutters of awe soon filled the camp, people nearby pointed in disbelief towards the northern area. Elder Miriam was confused as to what was causing such commotion, and only when she turned around did she fully understand.
Walking into town was the newcomer, the warrior woman in plated steel, slightly hunched over as she dragged a large furry creature by one of its hind legs. The lifeless corpse of the bear rasped against the ground, leaving a trail of blood leaking from the deep wound on its head.
She stopped right next to the wounded's camp, letting go of the bear's paw unceremoniously. She cranked her neck, popping her joints. "Scrappy little fella he was" Sofie casually said. "Figured the people here would like some meat. And you can make good use out its fur"
The people surrounding her could only look slack jawed.
She pointed back with her thumb, "Hang on for a second, got a couple more I killed. Be right back" And left the town to go retrieve the other two bears.
Leliana and the village elder watched Sofie depart as she whistled a tune as she wiped the blood off her sword. Miriam slowly shifted her gaze to the stunned young lay-sister; "Did that girl take down a sleuth of bears?"
A trance-like nod came from the redhead "Par le Createur," Leliana whispered quietly in Orlesian.
Who was this woman? Not only has she dealt with the bandits and bears, but also solved the shortage of food and furs which could be used as much needed blankets at the same time, never mind the items the bandits horded were now taken back by the village. Large problems that were crippling Lothering's resources were taken care of in half of a day!
Awe and curiosity grew more within the lay-sister as several people begun to work on the first bear carcass brought to them. Maybe this was the Maker's hand at work.
XxX ~ xx ~ XxX
The moons rose into the sky as Sofie set up her tent outside the village. While offered a place to rest within Lothering she politely refused. Stating that someone in dire straits would need it more. Thus she simply requested for tent equipment.
Starting a small fire as she began to cook a slice of bear meat. Sofie let out a sigh as she gazed up towards the sky. Though glanced to the cage beside her tent with the Qunari as Leliana had explained what this man was. Said man sat in a meditative position in his cell.
Honestly, the unnaturally quiet demeanor was starting to get on her nerves. "So, big guy" She prompted, watching as the bear meat was just about to reach the optimal point in the fire. "Why are you in that cage?"
"I'm a prisoner" He replied in calm annoyance.
Sofie snorted, "I can see that. What I mean is, what did you do to get into that cage?"
"I slaughtered a family, including the children"
Her fingers which were about to grab a hold of the meat stopped momentarily at his blunt declaration. Her thoughts raced at the possibilities of why he had committed such a horrible thing. She looked at him, noting from his height and bulky frame that his strength had to be formidable. "...Hmph. They must have had trouble caging you" His face was too guarded, he betrayed no emotion.
"I caged myself, a weak mind is too dangerous"
Well now... She did not expect that. "A weak mind" Sofie repeated, looking into the meaning of his words. "You killed them in blind rage" It was hard to picture, for a man who looked to be in such control over his own emotions to lose himself to berserker rage. He truly did not look like one of those type of warriors.
"I did" He admitted with the same bluntness.
"Do you regret it?"
"Does it matter?"
"Oh it matters a great deal"
The qunari grunted in reply.
Sofie shrugged as she took a bite off her roasted meat. "Haven't told me your name yet"
"In the Qun, we do not have names" He replied, much to her surprise. "We have titles, our roles, that is what defined us, that is who we are"
Ohhhh boy, the more she heard about this Qun the less she liked. Kind of sounded like something Jyggalag would approve of.
Sofie grunted; "Then may I know your title sir?"
The Qunari was quiet for a moment; "Sten of the Beresaad. Qunari Vanguard."
"Sofie Redoran of Tamriel." The Qunari said nothing save a lifted brow as the Nord spoke again. "So I'm guessing you're a scout?"
Sten only gave a nod as he closed his eyes and resumed meditation. At least till the woman brought up her previous question; "Do you regret killing that family." Opening his eyes to glance at Sofie he saw the woman's face was stern with her eyes hard as steel.
A long sigh came from the towering man; "Yes..."
Slowly her gaze softened. "Would you like some food then?"
"You would give food to a murderer?"
"If you did not have remorse for your crime I would have killed you myself and saved everyone here some grief. But your words were sincere. That sincerity tells me enough. So, would like some food and water Sten?"
"My kind can sustain itself without nutrition for days; we are not as fragile as yours"
She had to snort at that. Oh if only he knew. "I'm gonna leave this right next to you" Sofie said, placing a piece of meat and a water-skin within arm's reach of his cell.
Violet eyes looked at the offered food before narrowing with suspicion at the woman. "What is it that you want?" From his experiences, everyone in this confusing land always did something because they wanted to return.
"I want to show mercy and compassion to someone who is clearly too bullheaded to understand what it is" She replied, annoyance present in her voice. "Ain't need another reason beyond that"
"...You do not make sense" The qunari said with resignation. "You are fighter, yet apparently you consider yourself female"
"The breasts and other lady bits kind of point to that" Sofie sarcastically replied.
"That cannot be" Sten said with finality. "Women cannot be warriors. Warriors must be men"
Sofie was considering shoving the piece of meat down his throat until he died choking. But lady Mara wouldn't approve of harming an unarmed opponent like that...
"Oh really" She raised her voice with a faux cheer. "Then what if a woman among your people wants to be a warrior"
"Then he is considered a man, as it is proper" The qunari said it like that explained it all.
All it did was make the nord blink in confusion several times, tilting her head, "What?" Seeing as Sten remained quiet again Sofie shook her head; "No offense but you're people are very strange."
"A general consensus among many outside of Par Vollen and Seheron."
XxX ~ xx ~ XxX
Dawn's light breached above the forest near Lothering. A soft groan came from Sofie as her eyes opened and found a pair fellow ocean blue eyes looking down at her. She blinked as they focused to see sister Leliana standing and leaning down to gaze at her with a soft smile on her lips.
"Do you make a habit of watching people sleep?" The Nordic woman asked with a mild yawn.
At that Leliana's cheeks turned red as she stood up straight. "I'm sorry, wasn't sure if I should wake you." Idly she glanced over towards Sten who was watching her silently. And noticed a water-skin inside his cage. She looked back to Sofie who sat up and stretched; "I was wondering if you'd like some breakfast at the tavern?"
Sofie groaned as she popped the stiff joints of her neck before fully standing up and doing the same for her arms and knuckles. Leliana had to crane up her head somewhat, being a tall woman herself she wasn't used to do so, but Maker this foreigner before her was something else in terms of stature and build.
Sofie grinned, "Sure. Can never say no to a pretty lady" Leliana chuckled awkwardly, "Heh, sorry. Shouldn't really be flirting with a member of the clergy" She didn't even know if they had chastity vows or something.
"I'm a lay-sister actually" Leliana's found herself correcting before she could stop her own mouth, "I don't have vows"
The look on Sofie's eyes was a touch... predatory. "Interesting" She nearly purred the word.
"Oh" Red cheeks complimented her red hair.
"Hah!" The warrior barked a laugh. "I'm just having fun, don't worry" She bent over, picking up her gear. Though Leliana doubted anyone in the village would even dare stealing from her after all she did. Then again, there was always that person who did something monumentally stupid. "You sure the tavern is well stacked? I regret to inform you I eat like a bull"
The redhead giggled, "Oh it's alright. The Hawke sisters have been doing a wonderful job with all those fruits they found, but I think the three bears worth of meat will still last for a bit"
Images flashed from the other day, Sofie grinned; "Those two are good people?"
Leliana gave a nod; "Well, I've only met Marian in passing. Bethany though comes to the Chantry sometimes, she is a dear, loves the stories I like to tell."
That made the Nordic woman grin before gesturing to the lay-sister who gave a nod and started walking. The qunari said nothing as the two passed by his cell.
XxX ~ xx ~ XxX
The tavern was a modest establishment with numerous tables and chairs, with an open second floor. At present the place was filled with all kinds of people either elf or human be either at one of the tables or sat on the floor. There was even a Blackstone Irregular liaison, the nord considered speaking with him later.
For Leliana and Sofie they sat at the bar were conversing while eating breakfast free of charge for Sofie's heroics yesterday. The entire town had felt a much needed ease with the highwaymen gone and fresh supply of food from her and the Hawke sisters.
Sofie found herself enjoying the company of the lay-sister greatly; there was something about her demeanor, talking always in a very engaging and captivating way. As if eloquence was her bread and butter. That her voice was very lovely to hear and she was easy on the eyes were a welcome bonus. Most of all Leliana had a good heart on her, always worrying about the people of Lothering. So she repaid her entertaining company with stories about her own adventures in the lands of Tamriel. Omitting certain things of course.
Of which she took with various degrees of disbelief and amusement. "Cat and lizard people, now I know you're pulling my leg"
"You believe me about the part where I take down the powerful skeleton of a necromancer" The nord deadpanned, "But you have trouble believing the existence of anthropomorphic animal folk"
"I will grant you magic is one of the many mysteries and wonders of the world" The redhead replied with a smile, "But it's the first time I hear about races such as the ones you describe"
Sofie rested her check on her knuckles, giving her a ribbing grin. "So, magic, flying fire breathing lizards, spirits and demons, that's all fine and good. But oh no! Different races that don't look like humans or elves, that's pushing it" She took a bite of her food; "I would love to see your reaction meeting Kharjo."
The redhead rolled her eyes in amusement as the topic of religion came up between them. Sofie listened to the reverence in Leliana's voice as she spoke fondly of the Maker and Chantry. She could tell the lay-sister was passionate about her faith. Excitedly the redhead asked of Tamriel's religious practices. The polytheism of the Nine Sofie noticed had gotten Leliana's attention, as well as a hint of worry.
Going into detail of the Gods from Akatosh to Mara did not make Leliana more comfortable, but she looked calmer; "I'm glad your Nine do not require human sacrifices at the very least."
Taking a drink from her mug, Sofie cocked her head; "Well there are some gods who do require that, but they are just as complicated as the Nine." Now going into the Daedric Princes caused Leliana to pale in hearing the likes of Mehrunes Dagon or especially Molag Bal who was pure evil in every way. Then rounding to Azura, which was a complicated matter for reasons in which Sofie left out. The nordic woman could tell the redhead was trying to keep an open mind and taking the open paganism of her country with a grain of salt.
"So" The nord prompted, "What are your plans for today?"
"Well elder Miriam still needs herbs, I'm going to gather some in a bit"
"Need some help?"
Leliana smiled, "Thank you, but I think you've done enough for Lothering"
"Hey I'll be the one to decide that" The nord stated, "I know how to brew potions"
The lay-sister quirked an eyebrow, "Are you familiar enough with Thedosian flora to know which are the herbs we need?"
Sofie smiled, "Just point me to the ones we need"
XxX ~ xx ~ XxX
Elfroot was a green plant with blue tips; it had a rather pleasant musk, and was very much a universal ingredient on healing potions and poultice here in Thedas. Luckily for them it was found around the near in the farm at the village's edge. The nord reached down into her boot and pulled out a knife, idly handing it to the lay sister. "Here, you can cut them with this. I can just pluck the whole thing right off"
"Thanks" Leliana took a moment to observe the knife, "Hmm, very nice quality. Leather grip if your hands get sweaty" She tapped a fingernail on the edge, hearing the metallic ring. "Doesn't look like steel"
"It's called moonstone actually" Sofie as she knelt to the ground, grabbing one of the plants by the stern before blinking in surprise at the redhead. "You do know knives" She tilted her head, "In fact, back when skinning the bears yesterday; you sure knew what you were doing."
Leliana paled a bit, "I uh... I have experience"
The nord could tell there was more to it, but obviously Leliana wasn't comfortable with sharing it just yet, so she let it go.
They proceeded to gather the herbs in silence, Leliana cutting them from the base with Sofie ripping it right out of the ground. "You know, yesterday I killed a few giant spiders, in a cave just on the other side" The warrior said, trying to fill in the silence. She chuckled, "Oh mom just has a panic attack whenever she sees one"
Leliana smiled, "Good thing her daughter didn't inherited such fears" She pocketed a bundle of elfroot into a sack. She had spoken of her family in passing during their conversation in the tavern, mentioning how she was raised by two mothers and had two siblings. Apparently they had all traveled with her to Ferelden, but went on their separate ways to explore the land faster. "Are your siblings like you?"
"Like me?"
"Well, so... tall I mean" She chuckled a bit awkwardly.
Sofie laughed in reply, "That's a nord thing. And actually I'm the tallest one in the family. And one of the two that doesn't have pointy ears"
Leliana blinked in confusion; "I'm sorry?"
"I'm adopted" Sofie explained, "My mother and my siblings are elves, my other adopted mother is human"
"Oh," Leliana looked surprised.
A fond smile formed on Sofie's lips as they grabbed another Elfroot; "I couldn't ask for better parents or siblings. Even if my little sister Sarya drives us all mad." She snorted with a shake of her head. "My elven mother is named Miara, my other mother is a nord like me, and Serana is her name. She more or less stayed with us and mom and the two fell in love. Been my second mother even since. Oh, my brother's name is Oryrn; he's probably the sanest out of the five of us."
Leliana could hear the love in Sofie's voice as talked about her family. The redhead bit her lip not sure how to ask her next question; "And your birth parents?"
The lay-sister winced as she saw the smile become a thin line from the Nordic woman; "My mother died when I was very young. My father died during the Stormcloak rebellions and because of Ulfric Stormcloak."
The lay sister's gaze shifted between the herbs before her and the nord who continued on her task with much greater focus. Or perhaps anger would be more fitting? She was ripping them out very violently now.
She tried to ask as tactfully as possible, which was proving itself to be a harsh task. "Did that man kill him?"
"Might as well have" Though Sofie's voice was soft there was no denying the loathing in it. "Father was a Stormcloak soldier, he believed in Ulfric's rebellion, and died for it"
"It sounds to me your father choose to fight for what he believed in"
"He chose wrong" She said despondently. "The Stormcloaks lost because they didn't think what would happen had they won. Ulfric only cared for the 'true sons and daughters of Skyrim', meaning; everyone who was a nord like them. He and his soldiers were too busy with the war they couldn't even track a serial killer who was haunting the night in Windhelm. And the elves that were kind enough to take care of me from time to time were living in squalor. Or the argonians who weren't even allowed into the city were freezing their tails off"
Leliana could see and hear the pain, anger, and hate in Sofie's eyes and voice. But these feelings were a numbing ache rather than burning like the wildfire it must have once been. She had moved on, at least enough to keep moving ahead with her life.
Perhaps it was best to change the subject; "Would you like to know of my own family?" A small nod came from the Nord; "I was born in Orlais, though my late mother, Oisine was Ferelden. She was in service to an Orlesian noblewoman, Lady Cecilie Vasseur."
"You're Orlesian?" Sofie honestly was not familiar with the accents of Thedas, so she couldn't associate Leliana's with Orlais. For that matter, it sounded terribly familiar to some accents in High Rock… in fact, how come the common tongue here was the same as in Tamriel?
Ugh, god shenanigans most likely.
"Have people bothered you being that?" The nord asked.
The redhead gently sighed; "I'd be lying if I said no. And I don't blame Ferelden to harbor anger since the Orlais occupation here was brutal. But I can say with pride Lady Cecilie was a kind and justly woman. My mother was proud to serve her, which was why she went to Orlais with Lady Cecilie after the rebellions."
"I never knew my father, mother remained unwed as she had me, a great scandal even if she was a servant, but Lady Cecilie was not bothered by the whispers and allowed me to be raised in her household... One day, my mother got sick and passed away. So Lady Cecilie raised me instead"
"I'm sorry" The nord said in sympathy.
"It's alright, we had a good life in Orlais, and mother would always tell me stories of her homeland. I'm grateful to Lady Cecilie, she took care of me when she could have sent me away" A soft smile graced her lips as she looked a small simple flower blooming near an elfroot. "Something I remember all too clearly is my mother's scent, she would keep dry wildflowers in the closet with her clothes. White wildflowers native to Ferelden but rare in Orlais, they had a very sweet scent. Andraste's Grace she called them"
Sofie asked, "Is that why you came to Ferelden, so you could be in your mother's land of birth?" It would be something she would do were she on Leliana's shoes.
"In a way" The lay sister said, "It's actually a touch... more complicated than that. But I am glad I found this place, I feel as though my purpose is here, doing the Maker's work"
Sofie had gotten a feeling there was more but she did not pry. Especially since both ladies barely knowing one another at present. The two continued gathering herbs with light conversation.
XxX ~ the following day ~ XxX
As the afternoon sun shone in the sky Sofie kept within the shadows in the forest outside Lothering. Holding a decent dwarven made bow and quiver with arrows she had bought from a rather rude traveling merchant who stopped in the village to 'offer' help with overinflated prices. Thought after some 'friendly' persuasion (not scaring him to death like her mother would have) from Sofie he begrudgingly lowered the prices to something manageable for the villagers and refugees.
Now at present the Nordic woman went hunting for more meat and fur for the village. Ser Bryant had explained to her there was great deal of rams that grazed in the woods around village.
It did not take her long to come back with one ram draped over her shoulders while she dragged the other. The sight of her returning to the village with dead animals was becoming an increasingly common sight, one very much appreciated by the refugees and villagers. She nodded back at the smiling greetings she received; the people here had really warmed up to her. Well considering how not so long ago they had been plagued by a myriad of different problems, it was understandable they would be taken in by the helpful newcomer.
She dropped the dead beasts next to Elder Miriam in the medical camp, "These should make you some nice food and sheets"
"Oh, thank you so much my dear" The smile on the elderly woman's face vanished soon as she sniffed, "Ugh, don't be offended Sofie, but you are starting to reek"
The nord blinked and lifted an arm; she made a face when she felt what the other woman was feeling. "Yeah, guess I've been carrying too many dead animals"
"The lake is not far from here, just on the west" The elder pointed, "I would recommend the Chantry or the inn, but neither is really fitted for people to clean themselves at the moment"
Sofie nodded her gratitude, "Will be back in a bit" She left the village, turning left and passing the Qunari's cage. "Later Sten" The big man in question merely grunted in return.
XxX ~ xx ~ XxX
When Leliana had set out to look for Sofie, she had asked the qunari in his cage if he had seen her, he merely pointed west wordlessly. Well that had been more interaction she have had with the bronze giant than most people in the village had, with good reason everyone gave the giant of a man a wide berth.
Everyone but Sofie, but the lay sister was beginning to suspect the taller woman may be without fear. Or perhaps she was trying to understand the qunari more. Having confided in her that the Sten truly regretted his actions. Leliana hoped that the possibility to atone wouldn't be without his reach.
The lake was not exactly near but neither was it far from the village, indeed, Leliana and the other village women would often travel in groups to be safer as they bathed. Sofie could handle herself.
It did not take Leliana long to reach the lake, finding the nord's steel armor and weapons neatly piled up next to a tree. The sound of someone moving in the water entered her ears and she directed her sight on the bathing woman, opening her mouth to call to her... Only for her to be stopped in her tracks mesmerized.
Now, Leliana was someone intimately familiar with the bodies of men and women alike, from the strong and muscular warriors to the lean and perfectly shaped feminine forms. But Leliana could honestly say she had never taken the former and applied it to a woman. Oh she was aware women warriors often didn't look like the athletic rogues, she had seen a few in her time, but it was the first time she actually saw one possess such allure.
Sofie's body seemed crafted from the most pure stone used in statues. The feminine curves were there, but her frame was still impressively muscular and toned. As Sofie ran her fingers through her hair Leliana saw the biceps in her arms bulge and ripple, Maker they had to be bigger than her own legs. The curves of her midsection were complimented by the various visible and deeply cut abdominals. From what Leliana could see from the blurry shapes beneath the water, Sofie's legs were strong and shapely, leading to a tantalizing rump. Her lips went dry at the sight of her endowed bosom supported by strong chest muscles.
Her poetic tongue could only describe Sofie as though a master artist had drawn inspiration from the strength of a warrior's body and blended it to perfection with the beauty of the female form, and the result was the nord who looked like a goddess emerging from the water. The water falling from her naked body was simply...
"Hey there" Sofie greeted her with a smile.
Leliana's throat ached, suddenly feeling very dry. "Hi" Was all she managed to get out, willing herself to not sound too husky. "I came here for... for..." What did she need with Sofie again? Oh Maker she couldn't even remember.
The grin Sofie gave her made Leliana want to tug her collar, finding it too bothersome with the heat her own body was accumulating. "Maybe you'd like to join me~"
It took all of her strength to remain standing, oh the look and that voice, a deadly combination to use when she looked like a dream come true, naked and wet in the lake. Leliana was honestly not sure of what she was going to do. She couldn't even find her voice to actually reply, and feared looking like a fool with her jaw hanging open.
Her salvation came in the form of a naked blur that jumped straight into the lake dive-bombed and making a huge splash that wet her feet and the lower end of her robes.
Sofie grunted as she was fully splashed with Marian Hawke quickly rose and stood in the cool water letting out a relieved sigh. "Oh this feels good." She giggled as she noticed Leliana and the nordic woman Sofie who smirked at her. "Hello Leli! And you're Sofie yes, we haven't been introduced, Marian Hawke"
"Sofie Redoran," Her amusement shone in her voice as she gave Marian a look over. She had to say Hawke's figure was shaped rather perfectly like a gemstone. Toned legs, shapely hips, perfect breasts, Marian was a beautiful sight. "Needed a good bath too?"
"Not just me." Her blue eyes turned as her sister Bethany, had ran and stopped beside Leliana.
"You could have waited sister." Bethany groaned as she saw they weren't alone with Leliana gazing at her and that foreign woman Sofie who was in the water. "Oh hello. Came for a bath too?"
"I did," Sofie pointed to herself; "Not sure about Leliana. Did you need something?" Her eyes turned back to the lay-sister who blushed.
"I..." She really couldn't remember. Stupid sexy Sofie... Well, when in Ferelden. "I came to bath too actually" And begin disrobing, trying very much to ignore the appreciating look Sofie was giving her.
Soon, all four women were naked in the lake. Just a perfectly normal thing to do, no need to keep staring at the living dream of a woman, just... keep your eyes on the water Leli, she told herself.
Bethany helped scrubbing her sister's back. "Gotta tell you" The elder sister smiled widely. "That bear meat? Tastiest thing I've had in a while. Who knew something so fluffy and cute could taste so good"
"You've never faced a bear have you?" Sofie chuckled, scrapping her arm with a smooth stone. "They're not 'cute', they're savage killers who will tear you limb from limb if you're not careful"
"Meh, I could take one" Bethany rolled her eyes at her sister's words.
"Really?" Sofie laughed. "Think you've got what it takes"
"Oh you've never seen me in action my friend" She bragged
"Marian" Her sister hissed reproaching, much to Leliana's confusion.
"Don't believe me? These are the hands of a hardworking woman. I bet I could bring down a bear with my fists"
"Punching a bear" Sofie mused, "Believe it or not, I've seen that happen. But please, you're a bit too skinny for fighting an animal like that. Should focus on things more on your level... like roaches or grasshoppers"
"Ohohohoho" A dark smirk formed on Marian's lips. "You did not just say that. Careful, I can take you too"
"Really?" Leliana found the grin on Sofie's face both enticing and frightening. "Alright, try it" She tapped her rippling (stop it Leli) stomach, "Hit me here, as hard as you can"
Bethany only sighed as she rubbed her temple, while her elder sister (honestly Leliana wondered who was the elder sibling among the three of them) chuckled, popping her knuckles with glee. "Honestly sister..."
Marian ignored Bethany while Sofie stood with her arms behind her back smiling. Leliana breathed out a sigh watching both women; "Sorry in advance." The elder Hawke sister remarked with cheer.
Sofie shrugged as Hawke reared back her fist and struck a good clean punch in the center of The raven haired Nord's abs. Bethany and Leliana covered their ears as a loud shriek tore from Marian's mouth as she held the hand she struck Sofie with.
"Sorry was that a punch?" Amusement came from the tall woman; "Swore I felt a feather."
"ANDRASTE'S FLAMING TITS!" Marian cried out nursing her hand. She was certain she broke some bones; "WHAT ARE YOU MADE OUT OF, STEEL?!"
Absently as Leliana gazed at Sofie's abs she wondered why they felt like. The redhead quickly shook those thoughts aside. Stop fantasizing about her body! She let out a sigh as she sank further into the water. "You okay Leli?" Leliana sharply looked up at Sofie who looked back while Bethany was chiding her sister.
…Oh what was the point in resisting? Say something Leliana, compliment her figure, and tell her how outstanding she looks.
"U-Um... Your hair looks nice... without the braiding."
"Thank you"
XxX ~ xx ~ XxX
After the bath, Bethany and Marian returned home while Sofie went to care for her armor and weapons. Staring at the mirror inside her room in the Chantry, Leliana glared at herself; "Your hair looks nice..." THAT'S all she could muster? "Your hair looks NICE?!"
She had seduced people using nothing but limericks in the past, and this was the best she could do?!
Not... that she wanted to seduce Sofie. Sure, the warrior was brave, kind, so gentle and generous with the people here. The look on her face when she played with the children or how she would selflessly aid them without question made her heart flutter.
Leliana groaned into her hands, she was not helping herself.
It was just... attraction. Maker's sake she barely knew Sofie and Sofie barely knew her... What would Sofie even think of her were she to know of her past?
Well, a hopeful part of her mind said, by her attempts at communicating with qunari despite his crimes it was clear that Sofie was more accepting and willing to give people another chance. But another more cynically, or rather frightened, part of herself told her it was best not to get close. Sofie wouldn't remain in Lothering forever.
The thought made her feel sad of all sudden.
Letting herself fall down to bed, Leliana decided she couldn't perused this line of thought anymore. Instead hoping to find some rest in her sleep. Perhaps dream about something nice... Like Sofie's goddess like body-STOP IT!
Within a few minutes, her consciousness drifted away to the land of dreams.
XxX ~ xx ~ XxX
Her dreams were plagued with darkness.
Everywhere she looked; there was nothing but shadows and shapeless horrible things coming from it.
Nothing was spared, not the earth nor the sky. Everything was consumed.
Then, there was a noise.
An unholy sound that shook her soul to the core.
Leliana wanted to scream but she had no mouth, she wanted to run but she had no legs.
All she could do was sink, as the darkness swallowed the ground beneath and consumed her entirely, disappearing into the maw of the most profane beast.
XxX ~ xx ~ XxX
Leliana awoke with a gasp, drenched in sweat, her heart racing so hard she felt it might pop out of her chest.
Even with all the things she had done and experienced, this... this vaguely defined nightmare had inspired some sort of primal fear into her of the likes she's never known before.
It took her a few minutes to regain control of her breathing and for her heart to stop drumming against her chest. She thirstily gulped down the water in her basin and washed her face over, changing into a dry set of clothes. She couldn't remain here, though the darkness had passed its effects remained, she grew nervous even at the sight of the shadows in her room.
She breathed out in relief when she see stepped outside and saw the sun rising, its light chasing away the shadows. For a moment, she felt all was right in the world again.
Leliana needed something to calm her nerves, so she decided to go outside, check the flowers in the Chantry's garden as she always did. Even though the flowers managed to distract her it was only for the barest moments, her mind kept going back to the darkness, that unrelenting force that consumed it all.
Inevitably, she couldn't help but connect it with the recent events going on in the south.
Was this an omen of things to come? Was Ferelden fated to consumed by the Blight?
She let out a shuddering breath, the fear was almost too much to bear, she tried praying to the Maker but it helped her little.
Leliana paced around, ran her hands through her hair, feeling lost and desperate... When a spot of color caught her attention.
It did not belong to the usual flowers, instead it was in that old dried up bush that had been dead for so long, she saw a spot of red among the dry and dark plant.
Coming closer, she knelt down before it and found a rose. It didn't look like any species of roses she was familiar with, as its petals were too open, revealing a large puffy center. But its scent was just the same as any other rose.
It was just... here, growing strong even among this dead plant. It had found a way to grow full life.
Life... found a way.
Leliana understood it now; this had been a sign from the Maker. Though darkness and evil may encroach upon the world, there was always hope to be found, even among the desolation and death, a light would always shine to light the way.
She cradled the rose in her hands, "Thank you..." Leliana muttered in great relief. This simple thing had given her hope, one she would treasure.
XxX ~ several weeks later ~ XxX
Waking up and standing from her tent Sofie groaned as her joints popped. A long sigh left her lips as she smiled over to the caged Qunari; "Good morning."
Sten glanced at her "Venak hol." He gave a slight nod.
A brow rose from the Nordic woman with a cocked head; "Is that better or worse than when you were calling me Bas?"
"Slightly better."
Slumping her head with a mild groan Sofie made her way into Lothering. It had been a week since she had spoken to her family and what they were doing in Ferelden. It sounded like everyone was having their own little adventure in these new lands. For the oldest daughter of Miara she had been the unspoken protector and hunter for Lothering. This had made the villagers and refugees eternally grateful.
These people needed it, the news they got from the south... they weren't good. The Darkspawn horde was growing in larger every day. Already some refugees were packing up and leaving towards the north, dreading that the monsters would break through the king's forces and rampage unopposed.
"Morning Sofie" The musical voice that had become very welcome said with cheer. As always Leliana looked radiant, seriously it was like that woman always woke up looking her very best, unlike most people.
"Morning" She greeted back, teasingly looking at Sten, "What do we say, Sten?"
The qunari grunted.
"Atta boy! Look at you, your manners are improving"
The stone-like face of the qunari did not shift a bit.
At this point, Leliana found the nord's antics with the white haired man were amusing, she giggled behind her hand. "Marian is going to help me knit some clothes for the refugees, would you like to help?"
"I don't know how to tell you this, but my skills involve stabbing living things, sometimes undead things too, not threat with thread to make clothes..."
"You can tan the rack" Leliana playfully suggest.
"Oh. I can do that"
The lay sister giggled once more before her attention was caught by the sight of a group of individuals. They sort of looked like a ragtag bunch, with elves and humans, wearing different types of armors, two of them even wearing robes and walking with staves. Mages she realized. And a Mabari?
"Seems we have visitors"
Sofie turned to see what she meant by that, and her eyes widened at the sight of two figures she recognized immediately. "Mother, Serana?" Her words completely caught Leliana off guard.
Miara sighed with smile as she came over and gave her surprised daughter a long hug. Confusion etched on her daughter's face but returned the hug nonetheless. As she let go, her mother gave her a weary grin; "How's my beautiful daughter?"
"..Fine?" Sofie glanced to Serana who waved. "What's going on?"
"That's bit of a story dear," the Nordic vampire grumbled with her hands resting on her hips. Hearing the clearing of a throat she looked behind her and back to Sofie; "Let's introduce you to these folks."
The Dunmer pointed as she spoke; "Marcus Cousland, his hound Loke -Arf!- Warden Commander Duncan, Gin Tabris, Neria Surana, and Brianna Amell. Everyone this my first child Sofie."
The human with noble features greeted her with a nod, "I've heard a lot about you"
"Andraste, what did you feed her?" The male elf of the party, Gin, muttered. "Entire cows?" Only for the dark tanned elven mage to nudge him with her elbow. The rest of the group greeted her one by one.
"It's a... pleasure" Sofie slowly said, "Um, this is Leliana"
"Hi" The lay sister nervously said, she did not expect to meet Sofie's mothers any time soon.
"Oh my" Miara smiled widely, looking at her up and down and making the redhead feel all the more uncomfortable. "You weren't exaggerating, lovely as a dream just like you said"
"Mom!" Sofie hissed embarrassed, for once Leliana saw a blush in her cheeks... not that it made her own any less red. She was so embarrassed she barely had time to wonder when and how had Sofie told her mother about her.
"Not bad, girl" Serana said approvingly.
The human mage Brianna laughed at the nord's expense, it was very amusing to see one so tall and powerfully built be embarrassed by their parents like that.
Miara's eldest grumbled before returning to the matter at hand, "Can you tell what exactly is going on?"
The dunmeri woman pursed her lips before sharing a look with Grey Warden, "Forgive us a moment Duncan, but Serana and I really need to talk to her"
The Warden Commander nodded, "Very well, we will rest for a bit, but we must continue our trek to Ostagar soon" With that, he took his Warden recruits with Marcus and Loke with him to the inn.
Miara and Serana gave a look to the qunari at the cage, finally acknowledging his presence before turning to Leliana. "Excuse us for a moment my dear" The dunmer in disguise said as she pulled her daughter away to discuss things privately.
What felt like thirty very long and uncomfortable minutes of Leliana standing beside Sten's cage. She saw the Sofie, who looked very angry beside her mothers coming back from around the windmill. "Something wrong?"
At that Miara sighed; "More than you know my dear. Something extremely dire happened at Highever and we need to speak with your country's king about it at Ostagar."
"It's that important?"
Serana gave a grave nod before she turned to Sofie; "You sure you want to come with us?"
At those words Leliana froze, Sofie was leaving?
"News keeps coming in from the south, and I'll feel better fighting beside you and mom."
Miara bit her lip, every maternal instinct within her was screaming to tell her daughter to remain in Lothering. But she knew that look from her daughter, cause it was the same one she would have. But still, "Sofie..."
"I'm coming with you mother, yes it's dangerous but I can't just stand here watching both my mothers go off to a highly dangerous area when I know I can help." The young Nordic woman spoke with steely determination.
"We're not exactly weaklings, hun" Serana snorted.
Sofie only glared as Miara soon caved in; "Alright..." Giving a nod in return she went for her tent to grab her things.
All Leliana could do was to stand there, unsure on how to react or even how to feel at the moment. Of course, she was saddened by Sofie's departure, but most of all she was worried for her safety. She was reminded of her nightmare once again... But Sofie was strong and determined, and she wouldn't be alone. The former bard took comfort in knowing that.
She just wished she had more time to spend with her.
"So!" The cheerful exclamation of the elven woman had quickly reminded Leliana that she wasn't alone. "You're a friend of my daughter I see"
Serana looked up and down at her with a mischievous glint in her eyes, and the redhead felt like she was cornered by two dangerous beasts.
After what felt like an endless string of questions and teases, Sofie arrived with all her gear and supplies, finding a very red faced Leliana and her mothers smiling widely.
"Oh Sofie I adore this one" Her mother said with approval, "She's just a treat"
"Thanks mom!" Sofie said through clenched teeth, taking Leliana by the arm and pulling her away so the two could talk privately. The nord sighed, rubbing her eyes. "So sorry about that"
"It was... an experience" That was one way to call it. "They're lovely women, you're lucky to have them as your mothers"
At that, Sofie could only smile fondly, "I do" Her smile soon dwindled, "I'm going to Ostagar Leliana, I'd rather face the monsters to make sure they won't come here"
"I know" Leliana spoke solemnly. "You have done so much for Lothering, I… we will miss you"
"Hey now" Sofie placed a hand on the redhead's shoulder. "It'll be alright, those Darkspawn won't know what hit them"
Leliana smiled, feeling inclined to believe her. "I know you will"
"Buuuuut" A teasing grin came from the nord, "Maybe I could use a kiss for good luck" She chuckled, it had been a rather amusing pastime of her to tease the lay-sister, the adorable flustered look on her face when-
Before she knew it, two delightfully soft lips planted themselves on her cheek.
Sofie blinked once, then twice, staring at Leliana's shy smile. Oh that was just not fair.
"I um… I gotta go now" Why the hell was she nervous?! Regain. Some. CONFIDENCE. "Don't worry, I'll be back before you know it" There, better.
"I know you will" Leliana said with absolute certainty.
…She really had to leave before she started having second thoughts.
Giving one last smile to the redhead, she nodded in goodbye, Leliana watching her with apprehension. She would pray for Sofie every day.
Sofie let out an explosive sigh as she returned to Serana and Miara... who bore two very wide and knowing smiles.
"Don't" The eldest daughter warned them, "Say. A word"
"Of course" Miara smugly said, she really didn't have to. Much to Sofie's chagrin. "Come on, the others are waiting" She nodded to the group who was coming out of the inn.
It was then that Marian passed them by, holding a basket full of apples, the eldest of the Hawke siblings did a double take upon seeing Sofie marching with a group of strangers. "Sofie, are you leaving?"
"We're going to Ostagar" The nord replied over her shoulder, "Wish us luck!"
"You got it. Oh! If you see my brother Carver tell him I said hi! He's about this height, looks like a dumb ass!"
Sofie barked a laugh, "I will!"
Miara kept looking at the human woman even as they went their separate directions, her expression shifting to a confused frown. "Everything okay?" Serana asked upon noticing.
"She felt a bit…" The dunmer in disguise shook her head. "Hmm, probably nothing"
The vampire shrugged, "Come on, onward to the battlefield" She deadpanned. "Again"
"…This is gonna suck isn't it?" Sofie droned.
XxX ~ xx ~ XxX ~ xx ~ XxX ~ xx ~ XxX
The how Miara and Serana met with Duncan and the others will be covered in another chapter, as we're doing this in perspectives for these first chapters as you saw.
If anyone needs a better description of Sofie's figure we based if off Cammy White from Street Fighter.
For those who wish to be in the know:
Next; Naruto: Shoton of Konoha "Two Chapters'
Then back to; Dragon Age Origins: Dovahkiin 'Two chapters'
Anbu Sennin: A Final fantasy VII story 'chapter' will be made in-between