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Co-Author and Beta: Etheral-23

Doom driven for Ostagar

XxX ~ xx ~ XxX ~ xx ~ XxX ~ xx ~ XxX

Fires raged from Cousland Castle which shone brightly in the night. Howe's treachery continued as his men slew anyone in their path be they servant or guard. Though their main targets were the Cousland family itself. Blood coated the floors and walls of the white stone of the castle as Howe's main forces gathered at the large double wooden doors of the main hall. A man in heavy plate armor bellowed out orders as several men maneuvered a massive wooden battering ram on wooden wheels.

Back and forth they moved, hitting the blunt end of the ram at the doors. Around them Howe's soldiers were like hungry predators waiting to claim their hiding prey. Inside the main hall Miara stood at the head of the remaining knights of Cousland. Behind them Mother Mallol and the dwarven smiths stood protectively over the surviving servants. Ser Gilmore glanced to the corpse of his mentor, he remembered every lesson Ser Ector had given him since he became a soldier of Cousland.

He would not let him down.

Miara gripped Dawnbreaker and Dragonbane in each hand as she stood ready; "Make every blow be a kill! None of them must get behind us. Show these cowards what true knights can do!" Her voice roared as each remaining Cousland warrior was eager to unleash their fury and vengeance upon the curs that dare threaten their home and families!

She planted her blades on the ground at her sides before bringing her hands together, heat gathered as raw flames formed on her palms with shining intensity. She turned to Gilmore who watched what she was doing, "Let them through, I have the proper welcome ready for them"

Ser Gilmore nodded and raised his hand, "On my command, back away from the door!" The soldiers did not question his decision.

The door banged again, making the soldiers stumble back for a moment. The cracks and twists in the wood were becoming more prominent. This needed to be timed properly.

"Hold"

The door banged once more. Miara's eyes were narrowed in concentration, channeling as much magic as she could in her hands.

"Hold..."

Sweet dripped from his brow, but he did not let exhaustion get him, at this point Gilmore and the other soldiers were running completely on adrenaline. And they would use every last drop of energy they had left, until their bodies broke down if it meant defending highever.

The door banged, one more time and it would be ripped off its hinges.

"Now!"

The soldiers immediately moved away, and when the ram hit there was nothing holding it back. The gates burst open, and Howe's men charged in.

Straight into the line of Miara's spell, a stream of ravenous flames shot from her palms. Their war cries became screams of terror and then pain as the flames enveloped them, they fell to the ground, twisting and rolling but it was no use, this mage fire could not be dowsed like regular flames.

The first wave had fallen, but the second one charged in, jumping over the bodies of their flaming fallen as they made their way through.

The dunmer picked up her swords and charged in with the highever guard, Miara's blades were a whirlwind of rage and metal, the chainmail of her enemies fell to pieces as they cut through plate as though it was not there at all. Dawnbreaker instantly cauterized the wounds with its hungry flames, while Dragonbane scorched the flesh around them with its arcs of lightning.

A Howe soldier charged at her with his shield raised up, but Miara deftly dodged to the side and slashed as his leg, making him cry out and fall to his knee. His defense gone, Miara twirled Dragonbane until she held it in reverse, and buried the sword straight through the man's back.

Gilmore parried away the blow from an enemy with such strength he ripped the blade from his grasp, sending the weapon flying away. He slashed once, twice, thrice until the enemy's chest armor was filled with red lines. He did not wait for the soldier to fall to the ground when he moved over another target. Gilmore did not give the enemy a chance to strike; instead he attacked first with a fierce thrust, the blade piercing through his stomach effortlessly.

The soldiers of Highever fought on valiantly, invigorated by their righteous anger. But they numbered only in a paltry dozen, whereas Howe's men threatened to overwhelm them with sheer numbers. Had it not been for the foreign elf's magic and combat prowess, they would have never made it out of the castle.

The bodies of Howe's men kept piling up. The ringing of metal against metal was ceaseless, as were the shouts of the combatants.

It was only when the last of the invaders fell that silence fell over them at last. If only momentarily.

Gilmore gasped for breath, his lungs were burning, his arms felt tired. Never before did his armor weight so much as it did now. He nearly raised his blade when a hand settled on his shoulder, and relaxed when he saw the blue eyes of the elf. Then golden magic began to flow from her hand, granting him relief.

He could have asked about her magic, he should have really. But at this moment none of them could afford to be picky. Not when magic could be used on their side.

"Howe's men are everywhere in the city!" A Highever soldier wielding a bow shouted as she reunited with the group, "They're gathering to assault the castle again; they plan to take it this time!"

"What about the rest of the guard?!" Ser Gilmore asked frantically, his face stained with the blood of Howe's men.

She shook her head, "If they didn't join us by now, then they're already dead"

His face twisted as the conflict overwhelmed him; he let out a snarl of impotent rage as he made his decision. "No choice, we need to leave the city and reunite with the Teyrna and lord Marcus"

"They must have already evacuated through the secret passage with Bryce" Miara pointed out, "How are we going to meet up with them?"

Ser Gilmore remained silent for a moment, glancing back at his fellow soldiers, the few surviving members the servitude, Mother Mallol and the smiths. "There is a place we can meet" He finally spoke. "As part of the evacuation plans, the nobility and any surviving soldiers must reunite on an abandoned dwarven ruin in the Storm Coast"

"We'd be leaving Highever defenseless" One of the soldiers grimly remarked.

"Highever has already fallen" Gilmore's voice carried the shameful feeling of defeat. "If we stay, we too shall fall with it. But if we leave now we have a chance to reclaim it"

"Ser Gilmore is right!" Mother Mallol spoke up with resolution; "You are all exhausted, even with Lady Miara there will be causalities next time. We must rest and gather ourselves, tend to anyone injured and regain our strength!"

At the words of the Chantry mother the Cousland soldiers conceded with a round of nods. Miara looked to Ser Gilmore gazed back; "Follow me."

XxX ~ xx ~ XxX

Though panic coursed through her entire being Iona held it together for her daughter and little Oren who she held in her arms while Amethyne ran beside her holding her hand. In front Kodlak Whitemane stood protectively as their shield and if needed, their blade. Remembering a back passage Marcus showed her to lead out of the castle she guided them all towards safety.

Her mind was a whirlwind of emotions trying to rationalize all that happened this night. Why would Howe not only betray but also kill off the entire Cousland family who he had been friends with for decades?

"Steel your heart lass." Kodlak's voice broke Iona's thoughts; "You and the safety of these cubs come first."

Whoever or whatever this being was, he was right. They had to escape and get back to Marcus and the Teyrns. Relief came to her at the sight of the door she was looking for. Opening it they traversed through a long hallway. It did not take too long as reached another door and found themselves outside the castle. "The south gate shouldn't be far." Iona said with hope in her heart. "I know where we go from there."

"How about into my bed knife-ear." A lewd voice spoke up.

They sharply face back to find three of Howe's soldiers approaching them menacingly with swords drawn. "Arl Howe won't be pleased to know that little lord's elven whore escaped" The leading soldier pointed his blade at the children, "With the youngest heir"

Oren and Amethyne sobbed in fear, clinging closer to Iona as she prompted them to get behind her. Her heart raced thunderously against her chest, fear clinging to her entire being. But she needed to be strong for them.

Then, the broad armored back of the old human came into view as he stepped forward. "Cover the pups' eyes, lass. I don't want them to see this"

Hefting his large warhammer, his stride was long and intimidating as he approached Howe's men. The soldiers tried to make themselves look unimpressed, but it was hard to do so when the man was easily taller and broader than any of them.

"You three have a choice, leave with your lives or die at my hand. Simple as that"

"You don't scare us, old man!" The soldier that had threatened Iona charged forward, his blade fell upon the large white haired man who did not even attempt to move or raise his weapon.

There was no need after all, as the sword's edge was easily caught in his armored hand. The soldier stared in panic as he struggled to set his weapon free, but it was to no avail. He stared into those pale blue eyes, feeling like a trapped deer before a very hungry wolf.

"I warned you"

The hammer blow came so swiftly it shattered his jaw and teeth, snapping his neck and ending his life quickly.

"You bastard!" one of Howe's men cried out in rage only freeze up at the menacing glare from the towering Avvar man.

"Bastard am I?" Kodlak pointed his warhammer at the remaining two; "Says the honorless curs serving a snake that is willing to murder innocent people and children! Come and face your death like the worthless dogs you are!"

Both men charged with the hope to overwhelm their opponent. But Kodlak had faced Draugr with more skills than these curs! Sweeping his warhammer low he struck one of the men in the knees. The breaking of the bone made Iona wince as the man screamed falling to the ground. His cries were silenced by the white wolf's hammer smashing into his skull. The last man tried to run past his opponent to kill the elf and children but his throat was caught by the Nord's armored grip.

The man in vain tried to loosen the grip to his neck even as he was lifted off the ground. "The Deadlands await you." With a simple turn of his hand he snapped the man's neck with ease and let his body drop. Kodlak turned to Iona who shuddered out a grateful sigh and nod.

With no further delay they ran for the south gate. It was by luck that it was unguarded as they passed through the open gate. "Iona!" Fresh tears came from the elven woman upon hearing Marcus's voice and seeing her lover and Teyrna Cousland ran towards them. Loke barked happily beside his master.

Eleanor rushed their way hugging the children and Iona before Marcus embraced his crying lover and her daughter. Kodlak surveyed around where the two came; "Where is Miara?"

Holding her crying grandson Eleanora answered; "She chose to stay with our surviving soldiers and servants with Mother Mallol. If they survived Ser Gilmore will know where to go." She paused before giving the man a grateful smile; "Thank you."

A nod came from the late Harbinger; "Let us leave this place, I shall follow."

XxX ~ xx ~ XxX

Dwarven architecture relied on very rigid geometrical designs in intricate patterns, as Miara was beginning to realize, high walls polished to great detail, the engravings still noticeable even with time weathering them down. The care and dedicating given to their every structure was a sign of great dedication by their originals shapers.

Once again the coast was proving true to its name with its constant raining, but at least they had shelter. The cave had to stretch at least half a mile deep into the cliff face and it possessed multiple chambers, many of which purpose eluded Miara's understanding. But as far as she could guess, the big chamber where she and the soldiers were resting on must be a sort of communal area, if the number of chairs and tables was any indication. Not to mention the great brazier located in the middle of the room which the elf had lit up as soon as they found it.

Currently the soldiers, the surviving servants, the dwarven smiths and the Chantry mother were all huddling close to the fire, seeking warmth and rest. The trek had been a long one, taking them an hour or more, they all needed something to bring them just a bit of peace of mind. But the look of desperation in their faces told her they would find none by staring into the flames.

Miara let out a soft sigh through her nose as she leaned against one of the walls with her arms crossed. She pushed herself off the wall and approached the refugees. "I know many of you must be wounded, I can tend to anyone who needs it with my spells"

Mother Mallol only glanced at the elven woman; "Your help would be greatly appreciated."

"With your Chantry's edicts on magics surprised you're not calling for a witch hunt." The Dragonborn spoke her mind as she began to use her healing magics.

The Mother after a moment of silence responded; "Tonight I saw brave soldiers, some of them people I grew up with, slain. Servants, simple folk who worked for an honest living, mercilessly slaughtered... You'll forgive me if right now I care not one bit about your magic..."

Strokig let out a loud snort; "Think I can say none of us give a sodding stone about your magics right now." His wife Bugnuda gave a tired nod resting her head on her husband's shoulder. "Help these people lass."

Saying no more Miara and Mallol tended to the wounded with some help from the less injured servants. None were in any mood to really speak with the atmosphere being as somber as it was already. Near the entrance Ser Gilmore sat watching the rain pour and wave's crash on the beach. He remained vigil as all waited for the Teyrns and lord Marcus who had yet arrived.

Despite exhaustion claiming his body and sleep called to him like a siren he remained awake. Until he saw the lords he served he would not shirk his duty as a knight.

He kept his sword in his lap, in case he needed to use it. His fingers anxiously played with the handle as his mind could not remain idle. Gilmore could honestly say he had never been more alert; the last few hours had been a harrowing experience, the most challenging one in his young career as a knight of the Cousland family.

Tch, some knight he was. The castle was in shambles, overtaken by that snake Howe with the city itself at his mercy now. He had failed in his duty to Highever, not his mind was plagued with the images of Howe's banner hanging by the city walls.

No, he couldn't allow himself to think like that. Lord Bryce would return, he'd take this matter to the king and justice would be theirs. So he waited, pushing aside the soreness of his body and how heavy his eyelids felt. He would remain watch all night if he had to. Gilmore's lips moved silently as he offered a prayer to the Maker and his Bride, begging for his lords to be alive and well.

His prayer was soon answered as he saw various figures rushing through the rain, climbing up the stairs built on the side of the cliff face to reach the entrance. His first instinct was to reach for his sword, but hope soon swelled in his heart as he recognized the person leading them; the Teyrna.

"They're back!" He shouted back so the others would hear him. Gasps of surprise and relief rang out as the survivor's voice their elation, many thanking the Maker. Gilmore couldn't stop the smile from forming on his lips as he saw them getting closer. "Are you alright my lady?"

Eleanor nodded wearily, as she stepped through the entrance. "We are fine, Ser Gilmore" Her voice did not match her statement. She was far from alright.

The knight looked back at the other people with her. He briefly was on alert the moment he saw an unknown tall aged warrior, but his lords seemed aware of his presence and did not shy away from him, that was all he needed to know. He sighed in relief as he saw, Lord Marcus entering, along with Lady Iona and the children along with Loke were following, the soldiers standing to their feet as they walked closer to check on them for any injuries.

It was then that Gilmore realized with dread two very important people were missing.

"Where is Lady Oriana?"

His question was met with silence.

Hope soon was replaced by horror. "Where is Lord Cousland...?"

Eleanor tried and failed to hold back several tears along with Marcus as they neared the brazier with Iona and the children. No words were said, but none were needed as a cold despair ran through all of the Cousland soldiers, Ser Gilmore, the Greybacks, servants, and Mother Mallol.

You rarely found nobles who were good, just, kind, and garnered such love and loyalty from his people like Bryce did. This was why fresh tears sprang from the eyes of many as they wept for their teyrn. He was a light to this world taken far too soon from it.

Miara bit back her rage as she finished healing a soldier. She turned and stood as Kodlak walked up to her; "Thank you old friend."

"You are most welcome, pup. Whatever is going on in these strange lands I know you will see through it and make things right."

At those words a snorted laugh came from Miara; "I wouldn't be Doom Driven otherwise."

Kodlak's body soon slowly started to fade as he chuckled; "Indeed, farewell Miara." And like a shadow he vanished.

"Till we meet again," the dark elf whispered as she wiped away a few tears.

Eleanor along with the rest saw the strange being known as Kodlak vanish and soon watched Miara; "I've met mages before. Never seen any with powers like yours."

"Safe to say the magic in Tamriel is quite different from here." Miara sighed as she kept her back to them; "and since you know that I'm a mage, best I show you this." All were suddenly greeted by Miara true looks with her Dunmeri grey skin and red eyes. "Felt it best to hide what I and my youngest children look like since we were unsure how anyone in Thedas would act. This is how my race of elves are; we are dunmer, Dark Elves"

No one said a word as they continued to stare at the now grey skinned elf; her red eyes met each of their gazes in turn.

It was the teyrna who first found her voice. "Tonight I lost my husband and my daughter-in-law" She spoke with grief as she held her grandson. "Our lands were taken from us, and my people killed like cattle. The color of your skin or your eyes barely warrants my attention right now" She tried to make her words not sound unkind, but the wound in her heart made it impossible to keep her voice steady or her words rational.

Eleanor sat down, her hold on little Oren tightening. He was slumbering now; the horrors of the day had been too much for him. At least she hoped that he would find respite in his dreams. "Keep your looks concealed as you have done, once you take your leave, it will save you many troubles"

"You presume I would leave you at a time like this" Miara replied, "I did not know Bryce for long, but in the time I've known him he proved to be an honorable man. What happened to your family was an injustice, one which I aim to help you correct"

"You have no stake in this, Miara" Marcus spoke, his voice broken and barely above a whisper. Iona held his hand tightly. "You don't have to do this"

"I said I would help you" The grey elf replied firmly, "And I intend to" Her words seemed to... resonate somehow. Almost in a physical sense, vibrating off the walls of the dwarven ruins.

The youngest son of the late teyrn looked at her for a moment, sincere gratitude shining in his otherwise mournful eyes, mouthing a quiet 'Thank you' before turning to his mother. "What do we do now?"

"We rest for the night," Eleanor spoke with finality in her voice; "After in the morning we figure out what must be done." No one contested the teyrna's words as Miara set up a rune spell at the cave entrance in case someone entered unannounced.

Loke faithfully laid beside his master allowing Amethyne to sleep on him. Soon others followed suit as all felt slumber take them save Miara who soon sat down against a wall with a long sigh; "Well this is a fucked up mess." She mumbled before finally closing her eyes.

XxX ~ xx ~ XxX

Though morning came the rain did not relent over the coast. Miara and several others had gone to hunt for some much needed food. Returning with some catches the meat cooked over the brazier while Eleanor paced as her son watched her. Around them soldiers and servants ate in silence save Loke who playing with Oren and Amethyne while Iona watched. Bless the smart Mabari to keep the children distracted from the horrors of last night.

Standing near them, Miara watched both as she ate beside the Greybacks. "What next?" The dark elf asked

"We have to go to Ostagar and inform King Cailan of Howe's treachery," Marcus stated while his mother kept pacing.

"Not all of us," Miara retorted gesturing to the children, Iona, and the servants along with Mother Mallol. "These people have no business near a battlefield."

"Which is why I have been thinking of someone who I know I can trust to grant us asylum," Eleanor spoke up as she kept walking around the brazier. "Someone whose loyalty Rendon can't buy. Bann Alfstanna, she is a dear friend" Eleanor spoke with certainty, "We can trust her"

"Howe was a friend" Marcus pointed out cynically.

Rage and sadness passed through her eyes before she regained control of her emotions, "Unlike Howe, she has a history that backs up my trust in her." She turns to face the surviving servants, "If you have any family, or some place you can stay, I encourage you to do so but be careful to whom you speak to about Highever. I dread the thought of Howe coming after you as well"

"I can go to the Chantry in Denerim" Mother Mallol spoke, "Tell the Grand Cleric, so she can take the matter to the proper people"

"Thank you" The teyrna replied with relief and gratitude.

"So that's the plan then" Ser Gilmore said, arms crossed. "Lord Marcus will look for his brother at Ostagar, while the teyrna and her family hide with bann Alfstanna"

The Cousland matriarch shared a confused look with her son, "You sound as though you won't be coming with us, Ser Gilmore" Eleanor pointed out.

The knight let out a long sigh, "Because I am not"

"Gilmore are-," Marcus stopped as the young knight raised his hand.

"I'm not going to do anything foolish like attacking Howe, my lord and Teyrna. I plan to observe and keep to the shadows, watch whatever Howe and his men do at Highever." The young knight stared at the ground; "Make myself useful."

"You're certain you wish to do this?" Eleanor asked with reservation as Gilmore nodded back with a steely gaze; "Then do absolutely nothing to draw attention on yourself."

"I'll go with him," A female soldier spoke which soon followed by several more spoke up to aid Ser Gilmore.

Miara admired them for their sense of duty and honor. It was not long as the plan was set. Eleanor with Iona and the children would be leaving to Bann Alfstanna with some servants and soldiers. Mother Mallol would head for Denerim to speak with the Grand Cleric. While Ser Gilmore and the rest of soldiers would stay in the shadows and observe Howe and his men. This left Marcus, Loke, and Miara to head for Ostagar to inform the king and search for Fergus.

Soon people dispersed from the ruins with Ser Gilmore and his group being the first after saying their farewells. Several servants bid tearful goodbyes to the Teyrna and young lord as they went back to their families. Mother Mallol remained as she would be following the teyrna half way then splitting off.

While Iona tearfully spoke to her future spouse who held a crying Amethyne with Loke whimpering quietly. Eleanor held her grandson as she spoke to Miara; "Ostagar will be the lion's den with the Darkspawn there."

"Nothing I'm not used to," the dark elf smirked while cleaning her blades; "I'll stay with Marcus and Loke till this is all over. And Rendon is facing justice. If that involves stopping Darkspawn as well I'll do it."

"May the Maker or your gods keep you, Miara" The teyrna nodded as she clasped hands with the woman who had done so much for them already. "Thank you"

"Go with the gods" The dunmer replied with soft nod of her head.

Meanwhile, Marcus whispered a few words to little Amethyne, promising to see her soon. He leaned down to kiss Iona's forehead as the three shared a desperate embrace. They had survived a tragedy only for them to be split, her beloved journeying straight into the war where danger was rife. But she had faith in him, and placed her trust on Miara and her mystical powers to keep him safe.

Eleanor met her youngest gaze, as soon as he let go of his fiancé and child he surrounded his mother and nephew with all his strength. Though Oren remained silent, the horrors of the night still fresh with him, he still clinged to his uncle for safety and comfort. The teyrna slowly let go of him, steeling herself and swallowing her pain. Now was not the time for pain, not when they still had so much to do.

Loke whined sadly as it all happened, to which Miara in pity for the loyal hound softly pet him.

"Stay strong, my child" Eleanor's words were filled with conviction. "You are Cousland after all"

"We shall have vengeance" The youngest son of Bryce swore, "For Highever"

No other words of goodbye were sent, except for the solemn gazes of his family before they turned to leave along with the rest of their escort. Marcus remained there for a few moments more, as though he wasn't comfortable with them abandoning his sight.

"It's a long journey to Ostagar" Miara brought him back to reality, a snap of her fingers and her skin and eye color changed once again. "We should move on"

Marcus took a deep breath before speaking, "Indeed. Let's go"

There was determination in his eyes, strength fueled by anger and loss. Miara approved of it; he'd need every last bit.

XxX ~ xx ~ XxX

The journey towards Ostagar was mostly a quiet one for the trio on the imperial highway. When it gotten dark they took camp in the forests with game they hunted for dinner. During that time Miara inspected the Cousland family sword which in her opinion was a remarkably beautiful blade. Having a length to match Dawnbreaker with ridges near the cross-guard, the hilt had leather grooves to be held one-handed. For the pommel was a well-crafted lion's head. Marcus explained it was made from the finest silverite by orders of his ancestor Haelia Cousland in the Black age to fight off a plague of werewolves.

At that Miara's browse rose but said nothing, no doubt the lord of the hunt passed through these lands for some fun.

Haelia had called the sword Engeram, and with it upon rallying the people went from Bann to Teyrna elevating the Cousland to who they were now. Though at present Marcus could attest that wasn't much thanks to Rendon Howe.

After several days of silent walking save sparse conversation, which was mostly Miara talking to Loke. The dark elf asked the young noble; "You've had some time to sort all this? How do you feel?"

"About as well as you might expect" Marcus replied warily, pinching the bridge of his nose. "I'm still trying to think how to break the news to my brother" He sounded so lost, "I just... how can I even tell him that Howe betrayed us and took Highever, that our father is dead, that his wife is dead?" The expression on his face was one of hopelessness.

"There is no easy way" Miara shook her head in sympathy. "You need to be upfront and honest about the subject. What matters is that you are there to help deal with his grief"

There was wisdom in her words. "I guess you are right" He conceded, "At least he still has Oren..."

"He has you as well" The elf pointed out, "And your mother. There is great fortitude in your lineage; there is no doubt in my mind you all will pull through this and reclaim what's yours"

She sounded so certain...

He paused momentarily, taking in her words. "Thank you, Miara"

"I know very well what you're going through" She said, her voice a touch heavier than usual. "I too lost my home, long ago"

There had been an elven woman once; she lived on a simple town, alongside side good and honest folk…

Marcus eyed her as she continued; "Remember the first great war with the Thalmor I told you about?" He nodded; "They destroyed the rural village I had lived for most of my life since I was a child." The memories felt like a long ago dream, but she recalled everything with clarity. "Ravenna we called it, a farming village near the province of Cheydinhal."

In the mornings the town smelled of wheat due to the bakery heating up the ovens early, the sounds that followed the rooster's call were that of the woman's hammer as she opened her smithing shop.

"Must have been boring for an adventurer like yourself."

The woman was always greeted with kind smiles and cheerful waves…

The elf shook head; "Honestly I never saw myself as an adventurer in those days. I lived as an orphan till the old Orc who worked as our smith took me in and taught me the trade." Or became obsessed with it as Serana snarked once in a while. "The friends I grew up with stayed in the village and started their own lives and families. It hurt knowing I would outlive most them, watching them grow old, but said I'd look after their grandchildren when they passed. Life was very simple but I loved it..."

She started alone in an uncaring world, but a gruff large bellied smith of an orc took the young girl in, taught here everything there was to know of the craft. She fell in love with it and found her calling.

The face of that stubborn orc when she did something that exceeded his expectations, always so carefully guarded and gruff, telling her to do it over as the work was subpar even when she knew otherwise. He was always pushing her to be better.

She remembered a simple tailor; his eldest daughter would always take care of the rest of the town's children when their parents were too busy. She always sneaked out sweets for them in secret, many of which the elven woman blacksmith often gave to her.

An old retired soldier, whom the elven women once knew as a spry in his youth, would sit by on his porch, regaling stories of his adventures to any who would listen. He had inspired a sense of wonder in the world around her.

To an orphan girl the world was dark and frightening, but the simple random kindness of everyday people made it seem full of splendor and light.

Life was good.

Until...

Miara's face slowly grew dark; "Then the war began. The Thalmor were relentless and before anyone knew it they were invading Cyrodiil. Ravenna had no guards posted from Cheydinhal because the Count at the time believed we would be ignored given our size." Her lower lip trembled as she shook her head; "He thought wrong. They killed everyone... Men, women, children; all were slaughtered. I tried to fight but was crippled by this one sadistic Thalmor who said with a smile 'I get to watch'." she paused for the longest time; "I watched them butcher everyone I ever knew, burning everything... And not one damn Imperial regiment came to help us."

The woman saw the tailor dead on the ground, the corpse of his daughter was far away from him, she could not reach him in time. The old warrior died on his feet, trying to protect his people.

The children… so innocent, so full of life… nobody should have taken it from them. The fires could not drown their screams.

The woman Miara had been died that day with her town. Left for dead amidst the smoldering ruins of the buildings, and the charred corpses of the folk she had known for so long…

When she woke up, she was reborn as someone else, and all she felt… was rage.

The screams she let out could not have come from a mortal. A hint of what was to come, in hindsight.

The dunmer pushed those memories away with a deep breath. Her vengeance had been carried out, but she would never forget the pain, she would keep it close, as well as the smiling faces of that simple folk. So she would never allow injustice to go unpunished again… and so she wouldn't be led astray again.

Marcus was familiar with war stories; he heard many from his father and other veterans from the times of the rebellion. Some spoke with a distanced tone, having put those days behind them. Others remembered the glorious moments of battle, when they won their freedom back. Yet others would still carry grudges, anger and hate towards their old oppressors still fresh on their minds, they were the ones who had lived and seen firsthand the crimes committed against their people, the senseless pain inflicted on them by brutal tyranny.

And the woman before him was no different, it had scarred her deeply. Though he could tell the pain was old, she still clinged to it.

"Then their leader blasted me away with a spell and they left, they thought they had killed me" She let out a humorless snort, a predatory smile forming on her lips, "A mistake they would regret in the end"

"You do not sound as though you moved on, even if you claimed your vengeance" Marcus noted worriedly, fearing that might be his future.

"I hold that resentment close to my heart. Pain and hate are fantastic motivators" She replied, "The mark of righteous vengeance is being able to wield that anger without letting it blind you... A test which I failed, miserably" Her voice became forlorn and ashamed.

Marcus said nothing.

"My resentment was directed towards the wrong people, I told myself they were just as responsible as the Thalmor, another stepping stone to my revenge" She slowly shook her head, "I made mistake after mistake and many people suffered for them. Now I live to make up for them" Her fake blue eyes turned to face Marcus. "On the road to vengeance always remember who your true enemy is, lest you get innocent people hurt in the way"

Many innocents had died due to her rage and blind thirst for vengeance. No more, she had sworn. Not since her blade tasted the emperor's blood and she realized her mistake. She would spend the rest of her life trying to make things right.

The young Cousland could tell she was remorseful, deeply so from the tone of her voice and gaze in her eyes. "Whatever you did back then seems to me you had saved yourself from it. Turned your life around."

"Somewhat," Miara said quietly before she turned and stopped as she placed her hands on his arms; "I am the cautionary tale of what not to do. Never allow the anger or the hate blind you from what you still hold in your heart. You have your mother, your nephew, your brother, Iona, Amethyne, even Loke." Said Mabari barked; "Never lose sight of them." She let go of Marcus and resumed walking; "And I'll make sure of it if I have to."

Gazing down at his faithful hound he patted Loke's head before catching up to the elven woman.

"Now" The elf continued, "Our next course of action is to warn the king and look for your brother. Do you think he will believe your claims?"

"He'll have no reason to believe otherwise" Marcus countered. "Howe isn't exactly popular with the court, and I know Cailan since we were children, he's touch adventure-hungry for his own good but has a good heart, and a good head on his shoulders whenever the situation actually calls for it"

"I heard he is touch on the young side" Miara remarked. It was a polite way of saying he didn't have the maturity necessary to lead a country.

"No more older than me" He replied, pursing his lips uncomfortably, "If I may be blunt with you, Anora is the true administrative of the nation. Most of the time Cailan is more interested in hearing about battles and going off around Ferelden doing as he pleases"

"At least he has honor if what you say is true" Miara said, "I believe now that he'll hear you out. The crown will take Howe to justice. Honestly, the more I think about it the less it looks like he was thinking things through. Just what did he think would happen after he attacked Highever? It'd all look incredibly disfavored on his part"

"Had he succeeded in killing us all off he'd likely invented whatever story he would have liked." Marcus spoke in a solemn tone; "As to why he did this. Your guess is as good as mine. Yes, Rendon was a difficult person to get along with but Fergus and I saw him like an uncle." The young noble rand his hand over his face; "None of this makes sense. None at damn thing…."

The Dunmeri woman patted his shoulder; "We will figure it out."

XxX ~ xx ~ XxX

It was mid-morning as the trio kept a steady pace for Ostagar. Conversation had grown between Marcus and Miara, though it was still light. The young Cousland hoping once this was all done and Howe was brought to justice that he could help rebuild Highever. But most importantly live a good life with Iona and Amethyne, have some children. Miara teased how his mother will both be overjoyed and spoil those future grandchildren silly.

The mood was better, if only just as they took notice of four figures walking a good distance ahead of them. Two being human, while the other two were elves, Marcus had recognized the older man in armor; "Duncan!"

Miara saw the human older man turned, taking note of his dark tanned skin and the thick dark beard, but most of the silver armor he wore. It looked custom made to fit the wearer's preferences much like her own plates over leather. The man looked at the young noble with surprise, "Lord Cousland" He spoke in a strong rich voice, "I was lead to believe it'd be your father and brother who would be joining us at Ostagar. And with their soldiers" He noted that it was just the young man and an elven woman; there was no entourage with them. "What are you doing here?"

His gaze darkened as sadness and rage overtook him for a moment, "It's... You see, what happened-" He could barely find the words.

He stopped when Miara put a comforting hand on his arm, her understanding gaze pretty much telling him that she could explain it to them if he wanted to. But the renewed firmness in Marcus' expression told her otherwise, he took in a deep breath and began.

When he was done, the Warden and his recruits were all wide eyed and horrified at hearing the fate that had befallen Highever and the Cousland family. "I never thought arl Howe would do something like this" Even the Warden Commander's usually calmed voice carried disgust. "All those years of friendship with your father..."

"It meant nothing to him apparently" The blue eyed noble spat in loathing, "If not for my friend here, I don't think many us could have gotten out alive"

"It was very noble of you, miss..." Duncan prompted.

"Miara Redoran" The elf introduced herself with a bow.

The eyes of the male elf in his group widened with recognition, "I remember you. You appeared one day in the Alienage. Told everyone you came from beyond the sea"

Neria eyes and ears perked up as she looked to Gin; "And you didn't tell us?"

"A lot had happened since then."

The dunmer women gazed at the elven man before smiling all too sweetly; "Weren't the young man that was standing in a corner while I talked, rolling your eyes and sighing, muttering how they were just 'silly stories'"

Gin ran a hand through his brown locks nervously. "You heard that?"

"I hear everything" The foreign elf replied ominously, her smile still unnerving. "I found it very rude, young man" Miara always took delight in messing with people from time to time; it was fun making someone sweat.

"Uh" The city elf was suddenly reminded this woman was taller than he was, it really emphasized how she was looking down at him. Not even his father on a lecture back when he was a kid could intimidate him like that. "I-I'm very sorry. My name is Gin Tabris ma'am."

Brianna rolled her eyes as she gave the foreign elf a polite bow; "Brianna Amell. And this is my longtime friend Neria Surana."

The young elven mage gazed at the taller elf with almost wonder in her eyes; "Where are you from?"

"Tamriel my dear," Miara smirk garnering not too surprising questioning looks from three out of the four. "Can tell you're on the way to Ostagar."

It was about that time numerous screeches were heard as everyone saw a colony of bats fly overhead Duncan brow rose as they flew into the forest; "If I did not think I was being paranoid I'd swear those bats have been following us since Denerim."

"Indeed?" The Tamriel elf remarked with an unreadable tone, watching as they disappeared behind the trees. "I'll be right back"

"Where are you going?" Marcus asked as he and the others watched her.

"To talk with the bats!" She loudly replied as she disappeared into the foliage.

The others were, to say the least, confused.

"Is she serious?" The human mage droned.

XxX ~ xx ~ XxX

The chirping of bird on the trees was accompanied by the sounds of footsteps over the grass, and the strong voice of a rather impatient elven woman.

"So this is the Warden you were trailing huh?" Her voice resonated through the woods. "Heard how some asshole spoiled brat was killed, horribly I might add, in Denerim. Was that you're doing?"

"Perhaps" Came a melodious disembodied voice.

"Not really the time for games, Serana" Miara said tiredly, "I'd like to talk face to face"

"Who says I'm not in front of you right now~?" Once again, the voice seemed to come from everywhere and nowhere.

The elf grinned, "The hot breath I feel on my neck is just the wind?"

She heard a hiss in her ear, "It would be so easy to just... bite down and feast upon your magnificent blood"

Miara turned, meeting the fiercely red-orange eyes of her lover with an easy going smile. "Your flask has been running empty I see. You looked thirsty"

"Famished" The words were nearly growled out. A pale hand reached up to tenderly hold the elf's cheek. "I've missed you these last few days"

Miara chuckled softly, bringing her lips upon the vampire's in a gentle kiss. "Later my sweet, you'll just have to wait a bit more and then you can have all the blood you want"

"Ohhh" Serana feigned disappointment as she rested her forehead against the dunmer's. "So unfair..."

Miara let out a soft moaning purr as she felt her lover's hand caress her stomach before going over her back, sending shivers as a finger trailed through all the sweet spots on her spine before going lower and slowly taking a hold of her rump. Serana's other hand sensually and slowly massaging her lover's breasts. "No time for fun?" The vampire princess purred with hunger in her eyes.

It took all of the Dunmer's will not to throw Serana to the ground and have her way with her. "Afraid not my love." she gave a quick kiss to her Nordic lover; "We have to play serious for a while."

At that Serana bit back a groan; "I hate that game."

"Come on, lets introduce you." Miara said leaving the forest with a smirk.

The Nordic vampire felt her lips upturn. Oh the reaction of her little thief will be fun to see.

XxX ~ xx ~ XxX

Gin felt the blood in his body turn to ice with Neria taking noticed with some worry; "You okay?"

Marcus lifted a brow as Miara walked out with a hooded cloak woman moving beside her; "Everyone! This is Serana Volkihar, my partner."

"Partner?" Humor came from the Nordic woman's voice with a cocked brow.

The dunmer rolled her eyes; "All right, she is the love of my life and the most gorgeous creature walking on Nirn itself."

"You forgot to say who is also smarter than you."

"No I didn't..."

Oh Gin's reaction was better than Serana could have imagined, she almost laughed at the poor boy who looked ready to run for the hills; "Hello~" She smiled sweetly as she waved at everyone.

"I thought you said Serana was in Denerim," Marcus lifted a brow at the tall woman. Sweet maker no wonder she would be mistaken for an Avvar.

"Oh I was," Serana smiled cheerfully which only made Gin more terrified as she and Miara approached. "But I was getting curious so I left to wander around your glorious land which looks quite lovely by the way. And you all are?"

Serana was a good liar, part of being a vampire was lying about her nature after all, and to them her eyes were a normal green in color. Her acting abilities were superb if you were to ask her (Miara was always quick to rebuke that statement), so it was very easy to pretend this was the first time hearing their names. Marcus filled the Nordic woman on why he and Miara with Loke were walking to Ostagar. "So, quite the mess you got yourself into. Again" The dark haired woman replied dryly.

"You know I never look for trouble"

"Well that's because you don't need to, it always follows you" She said sardonically, before smiling at the young noble, "Perhaps you would like another blade fighting at your side in Ostagar"

"If you're half as good as Miara, then it'd be insane not to have you there" Marcus replied with a friendly smile.

"Hah! Oh honey, 'half as good' does not even begin to describe me"

Brianna lifted a brow as she leaned beside Neria; "She's quite sure of herself."

The young elven mage smiled back before glancing back to Gin who still bore a terrified expression; "Seriously are you alright?"

XxX ~ xx ~ XxX

Deciding to join their group together Duncan with his recruits, Marcus, Miara, Loke, and now Serana continued forth to Ostagar. During the travel Gin explained his visible apprehension towards the arrival of Serana while also explaining what he did back in the alienage to keep him and his family clothed and fed.

And that he tried to steal Serana's coin purse.

Though Neria wanted to speak her disapproval of Gin's thievery, she recalled the harsh life in the alienage before being taken to the Kinloch Hold. So she said nothing along with Brianna who had been told by Neria and few elven colleagues at the circle about the Denerim Alienage. Marcus also said nothing knowing what Iona had told him of that dreadful place. He never did understand why Cailan nor Anora did not properly fix the Alienage.

As for Miara she praised the young elven man for finding the initiative to do whatever he could to provide. Serana only smiled at Gin stating; "You're a good lad who tried the best he could for his family. I hold no grudges." And left it at that.

Gin had loosened up from those words while the Dunmer and Nord began to converse with Duncan. The Ferelden Commander listened with great interest about the lands of Tamriel along with the two circle mages close by. Relief shone in his eyes as he was glad in hearing that neither the Blight nor Darkspawn had any presence in that country.

For Miara and Serana they got to learn some history of the Grey Wardens from an actual Warden. Learning truths over idle gossip and rumors was a good thing. During the conversation Duncan asked if either they or Marcus would like to join the Warden for which all three politely refused. Marcus stating while he will aid the efforts in Ostagar, finding his brother and stopping Howe was his focus.

They made one small stop in the town of Lothering, upon which they had met Sofie. Their 'little girl' as Serana had put it. Said little girl was a grown woman the size of a tall avvar with the muscles to match. The eldest daughter of their family had been protecting Lothering for some time now, as it was plagued with a myriad of problems thanks to the advance of the Darkspawn horde. Fearing for the town's safety, Sofie opted to follow them to Ostagar where the battle to push the beasts back would take place.

The road became filled with forests and swamps, the further south they traveled the colder the weather became. From the course they had taken when sailing away from Tamriel, Miara deduced that Thedas must located in the southern hemisphere whereas Tamriel was further up. As in Tamriel if one were to travel south they would reach the hot and tropical nations of the continent, while in Thedas the hotter and more tropical climates were located in the north.

As Neria explained to them, Ostagar was built to hold back the forces of the barbarians by the Tevinter Imperium at the height of their power. "Further south lies the Sunless Lands" She said, "Only the wilders inhabit them, from what I read it's a very harsh frozen place. Not many in history had dared venture beyond"

Serana frowned at that; "So, not all of Thedas is explored?"

"Far from it" The elven mage said, "The Sunless Lands are not the only place. The mountain range to the west stops us from seeing if there is land beyond them. The jungles of the Donoraks are known only to Tevinter, and even then they haven't ventured all the way through. The islands in the north of the Boeric Ocean are said to be inhabited, but not much contact has been made with them. More famously there are stories about colonization attempts beyond the Amaranthine Ocean, the sailors having called the land beyond it 'Amaranth' which is said to be devoid of any sentient species and all thedosian attempt of colonization have failed. Legends tell that later expeditions found former settlements empty and that the only survivor was driven mad by something and killed himself a short time after being discovered"

"Well I can tell you they didn't reach Tamriel, that's for certain" Miara spoke, "We are very much filled with multiple sentient species. Besides, when we traveled to Thedas we came from the north-east, we didn't come from the direction of the Amaranthine Ocean"

Neria's scholarly mind was very much intrigued, "So you don't know of any lands to the east"

"Bellow Tamriel? It's possible, but we haven't ventured there much. The sea elves might have though, but they are not exactly a very forthcoming people. I do know that beyond Tamriel to the east is the land of Akavir, which going by the size and curvature of the planet-"

"Curvature" The city elf questioned aloud, "You mean the world is round?"

"Yes" The Tamriel elf quickly said without much fanfare before continuing, "-should place the land of Akavir to the north-west of Thedas beyond the oceans..." Her expression soon morphed to one of worry, "Oh... just realized that Akavir might be as close to Thedas as they are to Tamriel... that is not a comforting thought"

Brianna leaned forward as they walked; "That a bad thing?"

"Well the times Akavir and Tamriel interacted it was invasions and war. The Akaviri are a very warlike and dangerous folk" Miara said honestly while thinking she might have to speak with her father whenever she had free time. "But they have been quiet for a very long time now."

Duncan rubbed his beard; "Let us hope it stays that way. The Darkspawn are enough of a problem to deal with at the present moment."

"But it might be best to inform the king once this business in Ostagar is done," Marcus spoke while petting his war hound's head. "Least be made aware of the many lands outside Thedas and which ones pose a possible threat."

Sofie glanced to her mothers'; "Don't we have a current map of the known countries and islands around Tamriel?"

"Not with us right now though sadly," Serana shook her head.

Gin let out a deep breath; "The world is really a huge place." Much bigger than from all he known was the Alienage in Denerim.

It was not long before they could see the tip of a tower in the distance. Further they walked the more they saw the impressive size of the tower which was surrounded by ancient ruined buildings, statues, and large stone wall. The Tevinter architecture was a beautiful sight and showed the skill it works like this and the Imperial highway remained in such a preserved state.

Serana let out an impressed whistle, "Very nice. Reminds me of some of ruins in Cyrodiil from the Reman period"

"Woah" Brianna let out a breath of awe, "Never in my entire life did I think I'd ever see something like this"

There was history here, thousands of years of it, the memories that must be reflected in the Fade, and the battles that took place. Oh she could just imagine the spirits re-enacting them all. She could have never visited a place like this while under the Chantry's thumb, the thought of going around the world, seeing more sights like this; it brought an ever present smile to her face.

Neria did not share her friend's optimism; all she could see was the place where a great battle will take place. She was terrified, having never truly participated in a fight before, she felt as though she might forget every lesson she had about defensive and offensive magic.

Gin felt like he was witnessing the Circle Tower all over again, the rest of the world beyond the alienage felt like a very distant land. So strange and unknown, and he was just an elf who drew the short end of the stick, from street rat to Grey Warden, maybe they'd sing songs about him one day. About the unlucky bastard who was way in over his head.

The scion of house Cousland took in a deep breath, his brother was here and it fell to him to deliverer the news of the tragedy...

But it would have to wait, as they passed through the marble arcs of the area where the great tower stood, they were received by a most unusual welcoming party. Two soldiers in large heavy plates flanking a man donning an armor made out of volcanic aurum which gave it a distinguished golden tint. His features were regal, with the fairest blonde hair and a charming smile on his lips.

"Ho there Duncan!" The man welcomed him with great cheer. "I was wondering when you would show up!"

"King Cailan!" The Warden-Commander exclaimed in surprised, "I certainly wasn't expecting-"

"-a royal welcome?" The ruler of Ferelden smirked, "I feared you'd miss all the fun!"

The word 'king', echoed over and over through his recruits' heads, their eyes widening in surprise as years of education drilled into their heads took effect. Gin, Neria and Brianna went down on one knee, bowing their heads reverently. "My king" The city elf spoke, this was one noble he should show the utmost respect.

He half expected him to bask in the gesture, perhaps make an insulting comment about his ears. Instead, to his surprise, the king laughed it off. "Are these your recruits Duncan? On your feet, friends! Grey Wardens answer to no kings after all"

They slowly did so; the king certainly appeared very... approachable.

Miara and Serana gave the young king a long critical eye as he greeted each warden recruit with respect and youthful reverence. Sofie absently whispered to herself; "He is quite handsome." making both her mothers' respectfully roll their eyes.

As Cailan finished speaking to a surprised Brianna he noticed someone standing not far behind them. "Marcus?"

The Cousland gave a respectful bow; "Your majesty." He walked up to the king while Loke remained beside Miara. "I have some news for you." His voice grim catching the attention of the king.

By the time Marcus finished blood had drained from Cailan's face as horror etched in his eyes; "By Andraste..." he breathed out as he ran his hand over his mouth. "What kind of madness struck Rendon to do such a thing?"

"I do not know your highness. But he was determined to end the line of Cousland that night." Marcus's voice was hollow as he shook his head.

Shock soon turned to steel cold rage as Cailan's eyes burned with anger; "Marcus I swear to you once the Darkspawn are defeated Rendon will be brought to justice for this crime." The righteousness in his voice and resolve was quite impressive to the three from Tamriel while the three recruits at that moment saw a far more regal disposition than he had shown before.

Marcus bowed his head with the utmost gratitude, "Thank you, your majesty" At least he assured that his father and his people would be avenged.

"But" The king clicked his tongue, "I regret to inform you that your brother is not here at the moment. He is heading a scouting mission through the wilds; we don't expect him to return for a day or two. And from the reports the Darkspawn horde is drawing ever near, he might miss the battle entirely"

"I see" The young Cousland pursed his lips, "I'm not sure I can face him after..."

"I'm sure you did all you could" Cailan said, placing an understanding hand over his shoulder. "For now, clear your head. If you are to participate in the battle we need you focused. Just imagine each of those Blighters is Howe"

Marcus thought it over for a second, "Then I fear I will slaughter them all before you even have a chance, your highness"

"Ha!" The king barked a laugh, "There's the Cousland spark" His attention was soon drawn over to the three women at the back of the group, "And who are these ladies with you, Duncan? More recruits?"

"Allies more accurately, my lord" The Warden-Commander replied.

"Greetings" The king wasted no time in approaching them, he paused momentarily when he realized he had to look up at Serana and Sofie, mostly the latter. "Oh wow... I mean" He quickly cleared his throat nervously, much to their amusement. "I am King Cailan; might I know your names my ladies?"

Miara gave him a short bow with a hand over her chest, "I am Miara Redoran, and this is Serana Volkihar and our daughter Sofie"

Cailan's eyes silently went over the vampire, the younger nord and then finally at the elf once again. The look on his face as he tried to process the information was rather hilarious.

"I'm adopted" The tall nord warrior supplied with a smile.

"Ah!" He made a noise of understanding as realization dawned on him. The young monarch cleared his throat while amusement danced on the three ladies' expressions; "I bid you three welcome. It's rare seeing Avvar outside your lands in the Frostback Mountains." Cailan turned his eyes to Miara who grinned at him; "Nor have I seen any elf like yourself. Are you from Rivain?"

"Well I can say I'm not from Rivain, nor is my lover and our daughter Avvar. Their people are called Nords while I myself am a Dunmer, a Dark Elf. And we hail from the distant shores called Tamriel."

Cailan's brow rose pass his hairline as surprise and an almost child-like wonder shone in his eyes. "Truly..." The armored guards of the king tensed up. "I-I never thought we would never meet anyone from across the seas."

Serana's lips quirked; "Glad to be proven wrong your highness?"

"Very much so."

"Whatever questions you have we will gladly answer to you once the threat of the Darkspawn are dealt with. Our skills are at your disposal your majesty." Miara gave a small bow along with Serana and Sofie.

"I can vouch for Miara skills my lord," Marcus spoke up; "She is the reason many of the Cousland guard and servants are alive."

"A word of a Cousland is good enough for me," Cailan smiled; "You are free to roam the camp and get any supplies you may need. I'll send the word"

"You are very gracious, we thank you," Sofie responded with a smile back.

"There have already been a few skirmishes with the Darkspawn, but nothing our forces can't handle so far" The king turned back to the Warden-Commander, "So; our scouts have yet to report any sight of the Arch-Demon. I'm starting to doubt this is a true Blight at all"

"The Arch-Demon is present your majesty" Duncan promised without a shred of doubt, "Of that I can assure you"

"Well I certainly hope so" He said with a wide smile. Though his eagerness for such a being to appear unnerved the others. "That way it'll be like the tales of old, the brave soldiers and lords fighting alongside the Grey Wardens" He said dreamily.

That... was a very bad attitude to have when preparing for war, the dunmer in disguise thought worriedly. All thoughts of glory had to be pushed away in favor of cold logical planning; wanting for your enemy to actually be that much of a threat was the height of folly. Many a general had perished in the battlefield and sentenced their forces to death by taking the most inappropriate choices just so they could earn fame and glory.

Cailan seemed to be a charismatic young man, but he still had much to learn about leading people it seemed.

"Now" The king spoke, "I should get back to my duties. It was my pleasure meeting you all" He bid them farewell with a nod as his took off with his royal guards.

Having a good distance away from the group Neria weakly spoke up; "Who in their right mind would actually want to face an Arch-Demon?" Her voice slightly fearful and wary.

Duncan only groaned as Miara soon stood beside him and Marcus; "He has a lot of growing to do." The dark elf crossed her arms under her bust.

"While his youthful enthusiasm should not be set for this current situation. I feel this battle should help guide him to rule Ferelden better." Duncan spoke up noticing Loke beside him and patted the Mabari's head. He could never resist a mabari's charm.

At that Miara nodded; "I agree; I see a good king in that young man. This battle can help shape him into it."

Gin glanced to Brianna and Neria before turning to the Warden Commander; "What now Duncan?"

"Right now you three are free to roam the camp, gather supplies. You will also need better gear; the Warden Camp will provide you with armor. There are two other recruits who have been waiting along with a young Warden by the name of Alistair. When you're done, seek him out."

The recruits nodded while Sofie stretched; "Well guess we can see what the folks here are like." She grinned as she walked off.

Miara glanced over to Marcus; "You should have that armor looked over. Maybe get some new gear too."

"After I speak with Loghain, he will want to know what happened." The young Cousland said before walking away with Loke following.

Duncan excused himself as he made for the Warden Camp. The three recruits stood at the entrance of Ostagar as they felt the reality of situation slowly dawning on them. Brianna rubbed her hands; "Well this will be an interesting day."

Serana snorted; "You can admit that you're nervous dear."

"I'm not nervous," The young Amell said quickly before sighing; "Maybe a little nervous." Oh who was kidding she was terrified! But like hell would she say it out loud.

"Any sane person would be," Miara clarified with a smirk; "You three will be alright."

XxX ~ xx ~ XxX

Brianna had half a mind to make a little dance in front of the two Templars that stood guard before the mages' camp. Anything to mock them really, the thought of them being unable to touch her was almost too irresistible. But alas, her fantasies would have to remain fantasies for the time being, best not to aggravate their allies in the fight. She paid more attention to the mages, seeking to spot anyone she would be familiar with, and noticed they who were conducting a ritual, Brianna frowned upon recognizing the type, they were trying to commune with spirits of the Fade. Things must truly be dire if the Templars would allow them to seek council from the denizens of the land of dreams.

Neria's focus was far from being centered on her fellow mages, but rather on a very particular one whom she knew all too well. She gulped at the sight of that familiar white hair done in a ponytail, the wizened visage in her experienced face dressed in crimson robes with golden lining. The elven mage knew she would be in Ostagar but... now that she saw her teacher did Neria realize she had no idea how to approach her. How could she even begin to explain what had transpired in the tower, the role she had in breaking Jowan out?

She could already feel that disapproving frown.

Neria tugged at Brianna's sleeve for support, making the human mage turn to see what she was seeing. Her eyes widening momentarily, "Oh right... Wynne's here"

"We must talk to her"

"Must we?" Brianna rhetorically asked, "You already know what she's going to say..."

The elven mage's ears dipped as she knew as well. Oh she could hear the lecture in her mind but she had to see her former mentor and let her know. Amell groaned as her longtime started walking but she soon followed.

Since she was as much to blame for Jowan running off she might as well get this over with.

Tending to her stave, the senior enchanter felt as prepared for the battle as she'd ever be. Certainly far more prepared than to listen to Uldred's rants. He'd do well to leave those libertarian talks back at the Circle, dealing the Darkspawn was far more important than wanting to throw more accusations against the Chantry and Templars.

"Wynne..."

The elderly mage paused as a young voice spoke her name with wariness. A voice she knew full well, she looked up and saw her former apprentice looking at her with Brianna at her side. "Neria? Brianna? Why are you two here? I thought you were to receive your Harrowing my dear?"

"I did," the elven mage said quickly with a smile before frowning while she held her stave uneasily; "And then me and Brianna became Grey Wardens..."

"WHAT!?" A few people walking around the camp stopped at Wynne's outburst before returned to what they were doing. The senior enchanter cleared her throat as she calmed down; "Care for either of you to explain this?"

Brianna bit back a groan while her friend told the elder mage of what happened in Kinloch Hold. Helping Jowan destroy his Phylactery and then learning he was blood mage. As Amell had expected Wynne gave both a disappointed expression which made Neria wince.

"Honestly what had gotten into you two?" Wynne placed her hands on her hips with a sigh.

"Please don't start," Brianna spoke with a strained calm trying to be polite for Neria's sake. "We had no idea Jowan actually was practicing Blood Magic. But Tranquility is a fate worse than death, so we did it."

"Jowan was always a good boy" Wynne said regretfully, "I cannot believe he would dabble..." She gave sorrowful shake of her head before staring reproachfully at the two, "Blood Magic or not, you should have known better than to break the rules of the Circle like that"

"Oh yes" It was becoming increasingly hard to keep the frustration building up inside her, "Because doing what the Templars and the Chantry tells you is far more important than standing up for a friend"

The Senior Enchanter frowned at the Amell, "You always were too headstrong for your own good, Brianna"

Oh Andraste. Brianna really did not like Wynne, always the Chantry apologetic, always disapproving of her whenever she spoke up against the most unreasonable practices and actions the Templars would take. Sometimes she couldn't see how Neria was so taken with her, soaking up everything that came out of her mouth and taking it as wisdom.

At least she wouldn't have to deal with high and mighty attitude anymore.

"Even if the circumstances aren't the best" The elven mage said softly, "I'm... really glad to see you, Wynne" Her life had been thrown upside down, so to see her dear teacher again was comforting. Wynne's words, her lessons, they always carried a great sense of reason with them, knowledge she could always rely on. "I... have no idea what I'm doing. Wynne I've barely been in a fight before. What do I do?"

Wynne always had the right answer.

"I cannot tell you that, Neria"

Until now.

Her green eyes widened slightly in surprise at the blunt words.

The elder mage continued, "You can teach someone how to attack and how to defend, but the physical battlefield is much different than battling a demon in the Fade. You can train all you want, but the truth of the matter is that all your practice will mean nothing until you finally fight for the first time"

"Oh" Her gaze fell down in disappointment. So much for Wynne dispelling her fears...

"I am sorry I do not have the answers you want, Neria. But this is not something you can prepare yourself like you would for a test, studying until you understand the knowledge, you need to live through. All you can do is take a leap"

XxX ~ xx ~ XxX

Steel struck against steel as soldiers used blunt weapons for sparring and training in an open area within the camp. Some trained in their armor while others chose not while a tall muscular woman with bright red hair bound at the nape, fair skin, and blue eyes, donning a steel plate of armor yelled out instructions in a stern voice.

"Keep that shield up!" the woman barked with deep husky tone. "If you wound a Darkspawn you do not want their blood to enter your mouth or you're as good as dead!"

Aveline Vallen, sergeant of the Ferelden army, oversaw the practice with a critical eye. Not soon after they began a massive women named Sofie had asked to join in. Not to look a gift horse in the mouth Aveline agreed and so the nordic woman had been sparring with a young man with pale skin, strong features and build, with short black hair like her own and blue eyes.

Their blunt greatswords struck each other fiercely, matching the others movements.

The young man had spirit in him; his technique could use a little polishing though. The redheaded woman could tell he was mostly self-taught, but the talent there was undeniable. Meanwhile, that Sofie was meeting his blows evenly.

Too evenly if one were to ask her.

The speed and strength of her blows was around the man's own level, but Aveline had enough experience to tell when someone was holding back, you could tell by how stiff the movement of their arms was, forcefully reigning back their own strength. Sofie wasn't fighting at the young man's level because they were equally matched, but because she wanted the spar to last longer.

Aveline reckoned the tall woman could easily overpower him if she so choose.

"That all you got?!" The black haired young man shouted, "I've gotten best fights out of wrestling in the mud with pigs!"

Bravado and taunting words were usual when sparring and fighting, though this youth seemed rather certain of his chances in an actual fight with her. The growing smirk on Sofie's lips told Aveline he was about to be in for a rude awakening.

The strong muscles on Sofie's arms rippled as she forced the young man's blade down, much to his surprise. She promptly let one hand go off the handle; still having enough strength to keep their blades locked in with just one arm, and punched him square in the jaw. The blow sending his body stumbling to the ground.

A man resting beside them snickered; "Got your arse handed to you Carver." A few others chuckled as the young Carver groaned slowly getting to his feet.

"Oh shut it!"

Sofie chuckled; "You got skill for someone self-taught. Just need some proper training and we can fight evenly."

"You don't pull punches Avvar." Carver rubbed his jaw before grabbing his sword; "Go again?!"

Well you had to admire his eagerness to keep fighting. Sofie respected that before she remembered something as she looked right at Carver; "You wouldn't be the same Carver who has two sisters in Lothering named Bethany and Marian?"

Carver's brow rose; "You know my sisters?"

"I was in Lothering for a bit before coming here with my mothers. Marian said look for the dumb ass."

"OI!" A round of raucous laughter washed over the area from the soldiers while Carver glared and growled.

"They send their love," Sofie giggled rather enjoying the sour look from the man. Some people could made it too easy to tease.

XxX ~ xx ~ XxX

A small crowd of soldiers sat on broken stones or the ground while a man in leather armor walked around two corpses. Sitting with the soldiers Miara and Serana held back their disgust as they witnessed their first Darkspawn corpse.

These things were wrong on every single sense. Miara had heard long stories of the Corprus, coincidentally also named the Blight in the past. A corruption that drove living creatures to madness and even warped their bodies to grotesque forms. But Miara understood the true nature of the Corprus was a 'divine disease', created by Dagoth Ur to turn the entirety of Tamriel into god-like beings with the power of the Heart of Lorkahn, the more severe cases of the Corprus being due the mortal bodies unable to withstand the sheer power.

But looking at a Darkspawn up close... Miara could in no way call this Blight 'divine'. The dry black blood from its wounds felt like corruption at its finest. Like something had been spat from the blackest lowest bowels of Oblivion, twisting the flesh and creating abominations against life.

Dawnbreaker was burning furiously at her hip; the sword was offended by these things mere existence.

"Do you feel that?" Serana whispered to her, "Gods I can feel the corruption from here. It's like Peryite and Namira fucked and this thing is what they spawned."

The elf had to take a deep breath, "Thank you for the mental image..."

Murmur spoke among the crowd of soldiers before the man in leathers cleared his throat; "Alright I want you all quiet as I explain what we have here. Now I know you lot heard about the Darkspawn, but there are varying types and I've been tasked to instruct you lot." He paused as everyone was silent and paid attention; "Now, let me make this clear. Do not. Get any Darkspawn blood in your mouth or any open wounds or cuts. If you do, you will die. Salvation would be only two options, death or becoming a Grey Warden. Darkspawn blood is extremely toxic so no one touch these bodies, we will be burning them once this is done."

Which meant no biting or drinking their blood, and Serana was quite okay with it. From the strength of the corruption they could feel from their seats, she would either die or be turned into a monster.

The man gestures to the two monstrosities in front of him; "This is a Hurlock and Genlock. The Hurlock being the height of humans while Genlock the height of dwarves. These two types will be the main bulk of the Darkspawn that's coming."

"Don't let their rusty armor and weapons fool you, it's ugly but dangerous, just like the Blighters themselves." The sergeant explained, tapping at the hurlock's shoulder pad with the tip of his sword. "The beasts might be savage with how they fight, they absolutely have no sense of self preservation, and will charge head first into the enemy line. But that doesn't mean they don't know how to use strategy. Usually that falls to the Alphas and the Emissaries, the first are some kind of highly intelligent Darkspawn leader. They give orders to groups of the horde, while the Emissaries are mages" Whispers of worry rang out through the line of soldiers, "Yes, yes believe me I know, as if these damn things weren't dangerous enough. So if you see a Darkspawn slinging lights around put an arrow in its head"

Miara raised her hand, "Does killing an Alpha disrupt the Darkspawn's unit cohesion?"

"Somewhat" The sergeant nodded, "The damn blighters can still function without one, but their strategy is more rudimentary and crude, so you can forget about them trying to outflank you or trick you."

The elf and the vampire filed that information away.

"Now" The Ferelden soldier resumed, "There are a few other types of Darkspawn, you'll most likely find the subspecies of genlocks, they have a bulkier build and walk on all fours with their hands, they are just bruisers whose only job is to attack with raw strength. But these are not the only subgroups of Darkspawn, you have also have shrieks, damn fast and nimble, they fight like rogues. And perhaps most dangerous of all, the ogres" The put more emphasis into the world, "Those things are ten feet tall, pure muscle, and have enough strength to rip you in half with their bare hands. Do not, I repeat DO NOT try to engage an ogre alone. We can thank the Maker those things are not as numerous as the rest of the bloody 'Spawns..."

The two from Tamriel and the Ferelden soldiers listened to every detail the sergeant gave more details on what was known on the Darkspawn for which Miara and Serana listened to every words spoken. Now more than ever did the words of the young Altmer seer rang true to how insidious these monsters were.

None of these abominations must ever reach the shores of their home. Or a disaster as horrifying as the Corprus would infect all the lands and people there. The burning of Dawnbreaker at her hip spoke what Miara's mind had concluded.

The Darkspawn must be eradicated.

"Now that should be all the lessons for everyone. Remember what you have been told," the sergeant addressed as everyone stood.

As Miara stood she drew Dawnbreaker. Serana tensed while the people around her along with the Sergeant take notice of the elven woman's sword glowing so bright it looked as if flames covered the blade. The gem at the guard glowed like the sun as she walked over towards the Spawn.

"What kind of magic sword is that?" a female soldier asked in wonderment. It was a sentiment her peers shared while Serana took a few steps back.

"A sword that burns away the darkness." Miara simply stated before stabbing both Darkspawn corpses. The group around her jumped as the bodies were engulfed in golden flames and within minutes the tainted creatures blackened and turned into ash.

Shock rang out from the crowd; "By the Maker did you see that!" a man yelled.

Another voice made itself heard "Her sword destroyed the Darkspawn!"

"I've seen the silverite enchanted swords of the Wardens at work" The sergeant slowly said in disbelief, "But they were nowhere near as powerful against the Blighters as that sword is. My lady, you must have the Maker's very own sword in your hand"

At that, the elf let out a short laugh, "Or something like that"

Meridia had made her sentiments on the matter clear; Burn the abominations, destroy every single one of them.

XxX ~ xx ~ XxX

Far as Marcus tried to recall, there were few instances in which he had seen Loghain without his armor. The war trophy he had taken from a fallen chevalier all those years ago seemed to be a part of him nowadays. The steel grey plates looked as polished as ever, the carvings of the lions in his shoulder pads were still detailed, and the red accents in the chainmail around his legs remained colorful. Though outdated, the Orlesian craftsmanship still endured, as extravagant and flamboyant as it always had been.

Though in his mid-years the hero of River Dane still had a drive younger men wished for. His black eyes stern which shone with experience and wisdom. His skin fair with shoulder length raven colored hair.

He slowly approached the teyrn's tent; it was large enough to fit a few chairs and a desk, this one filled with various reports from all fronts of the fortress. No doubt work Cailan had passed to his father-in-law. Marcus had to admit Loghain looked more at home during a war than he ever did in the court, as he sat in front of his desk, surveying the newest piece of Intel with a critical eye.

As soon as he approached the soldier standing guard stopped him from advancing further. "They teyrn is busy, state your business"

He didn't have time to reply, as the guard's words made Loghain turn see what was going on. Recognition shone in his eyes as he stood, "Ah, Marcus. I was informed you arrived" He motioned to the soldier to step aside, which he did dutifully with a hand to his chest. "Come on in, boy. Take a seat"

"It's good to see you again, my lord" The young Cousland spoke respectfully as he sat in front of the older man.

"You too" He replied with a polite smile, which slowly vanished as a concerned frown replaced it. "I... was told what happened at Highever. I'm so sorry"

"Ah" Marcus made a soft sound of understanding, running a hand over his dark locks. "Cailan told you then"

"He figured you were tired of recalling those events" Loghain said, "He has a good heart, now if only he could put that same foresight into his tactical skills" He said with a hint of humor in his voice.

"Heh" Marcus let out a soft laugh, "He may yet surprise us, and he's still young. I'm sure King Maric too gave you trouble in your younger days"

Loghain let out an explosive breath, looking as though Maric's antics were still pushing the limits of his patience to this day. "Oh you have no idea..."

Conversing for a good thirty minutes, the Teyrn and general of the Ferelden armies explained the perpetration and plan to dealing with this large horde of Darkspawn. Marcus could hear the dismissive tone upon mentioning this being a Blight.

"Has any Arch-Demon been spotted in the Wilds?" the young Cousland asked. Lying beside him Loke rested his head on his paws

Loghain shook his head; "None, at best this likely an abnormally large horde being led by one or more Alpha Darkspawn."

Marcus leaned back on his seat; "The Warden commander seems certain."

A light snort came from the Teyrn; "Yes, Duncan has made his opinion known. Enough so that Cailan believes it. But with no dragon being present I do not share the sentiment."

"If there is an Arch-Demon, it could be its plan to make us think it's not here."

"Hmm," the older man rubbed his chin; "Perhaps, The scouts should tell us more when they arrive back."

"Alright," Marcus gave nod conceding the debate; "What can I do to help?"

"Get yourself some better armor for one. And have those swords looked over. I'll send word to the quartermaster your to be given the best he's got." The young Cousland was in agreement as he stood waking Loke; "Before you go. While Bryce and I may have argued a lot, I respected him greatly. I see a lot of him in you, you'll do him proud."

"I recall you two mainly argued about foreign matters."

"And I still stand by what I said," Loghain said quietly; "We're better off not dealing with the Orlesians. They did enough as far as I am concerned." He gazed out of his tent. "When Cailan sent his message I was told three foreigners from some land came with you?"

"From a place called Tamriel, yes."

"What do you think of them?"

"You can count of them. And they're not mask wearing Orlesians," Marcus joked.

At that Loghain faintly chuckled; "I suppose there is that."

XxX ~ xx ~ XxX

Walking out of the Grey Warden camp Gin felt better now wearing some protective armor. And he had to say the Warden's made good gear. Blue cloth with chainmail sown in, a chest plate with a griffon carved in, leather pants and armors boots and gloves. All in all, a good fit.

Beside him Brianna and Neria walked with him; "You look ready," Amell smiled at her fellow recruit.

"As I'll ever be I guess," Gin glanced at the two ladies; "How's yours?"

"Wardens" The human mage gave a sly smirk as the tugged the coattails of her reinforced robes. It had the same pattern of silver and blue in diamond shapes as his own, along with the tabard with silvery mail underneath the blue lines of clothing. The biggest difference with his outfit was the lack of plates. "Have style~"

Neria awkwardly adjusted the high neck of her outfit, "Never worn something like this before"

"We're battlemages now, Neria" Brianna said with confidence, "We're dressed for war"

Her elven friend did not look as enthused with the concept as she did. "I guess so..." She turned her gaze to the city elf, "Have you been in fights before Gin?"

"More or less. Bandits in the streets and cutthroats are common when you work with a thieves guild. But nothing like the scale of what we're doing here" He smiled at her, "It's okay, you'll do fine"

"Hmm" She did not look very convinced.

"Anyway" Gin changed the subject, "Have you met our fellow recruits? I already met Daveth, ended up getting along with him better than I thought I would" Similar past regarding thievery was a way of bringing people together.

"Seen the other, Ser Jory, praying in the wounded camp" Neria commented. She had considered approaching them to help the wounded, but if the mages here weren't doing so already, then it meant the Chantry had strongly disagreed with that proposition. "He's actually from Highever, maybe Lord Marcus knows him"

"'Lord Marcus', why so formal?" Brianna asked.

Neria gave her an incredulous look, "Uhhhhh because he is a noble from Highever? You know, one of the teyrndoms, the people second to the king, that sort of thing. Honestly you should have more etiquette"

"Oh he doesn't look like a stuffy noble, I'm sure he doesn't mind"

"'Lord Marcus' doesn't mind, in fact" The amused voice of said young noble as he approached, now wearing a set of heavy plates over chainmail, they were form fitting and not too bulky, a balanced designed for mobility and decent protection. Loke barked happily at his side. "Please, I already go through enough decorum in the courts"

Brianna flashed a smug grin at Neria, who just gave her a deadpanning look.

"I was talking to Duncan" Marcus continued, "I feel I would be better prepared if I face the Darkspawn before the battle, so he's agreed to let me join your party for when you're send on your trial"

"It'd be good to have you with us" Gin said, there weren't many nobles he would actually be happy to have on their side. "Now, all we need to do is find this Alistair fellow"

The four plus the mabari walked pass the Quartermaster and mage's camp up a small hill into a massive open area that resembled possibly a grand hall. To their left was the area where Cailan had the war table set up. On the right was a large ruined veranda where two men were currently speaking... Or arguing as it became more apparent.

One was a circle human mage in green and gold embroiled robes holding his stave with a clear look of annoyance. The other was a human man roughly Marcus's height, around their age with fair skin, short blond hair and stubby chin. Unlike Gin or the girls this man was in fully plated Warden Armor, a griffon designed shield on his back with a sword on his hip.

A dry mirth danced in the younger man's eyes while he and the older mage argued. As they neared the mage rudely shoved the others out of the way before storming off. The young warden sighed; "Well that was lovely waste of fifteen minutes." His blue eyes shifted towards the group; "Ah hello! You must be the three new recruits Duncan mentioned." He took notice of Marcus and Loke; "Or are there four and a dog now?"

"I'd actually be joining you on their trial in the wilds to have more experience on how to fight Darkspawn" The young noble said before holding up his hand. "Marcus Cousland, a pleasure"

"Heh, well hope you're not squeamish, the Blighters are really ugly up close" He said with humor in his voice as he shook his hand, "I'm Alistair, been a Warden just for half a year but Duncan says I'm still your senior and should take you guys through the steps" He said, addressing the other three.

"I'm Neria, this is Brianna, and we're from Kinloch Hold" The elven mage introduced them, "This here is Gin, and he's from Denerim"

"Oh, you're mages" Alistair said a touch uncomfortably.

Brianna's eyes immediately narrowed, "Got a problem with that?"

"Nothing personal, just feel it's a bit awkward. Part of the reason why the Revered Mother sent me to talk to Grumpy Staff over there" He hesitantly said, "You see I am, or was really, a Templar before becoming a Warden"

"...Ah" The human mage made a clicking sound with her tongue as understanding dawned on her. "Well, then. Are we going to have a problem? Hopefully you haven't swallowed all that Chantry propaganda, lyrium does addle the mind after all"

Neria looked at her scandalized, "Brianna!" She was honestly trying to pick up a fight with their senior Warden?

To their surprise, Alistair laughed. "Heh! Don't get me wrong, I know the Chantry, I say my prayers... sometimes. But you're talking to someone who more often than not fell asleep during sermons"

A smile grew on Amell's lip; "Then we're good."

"Now have you lot met Daveth and Ser Jory?" Alistair asked receiving a round of nods; "Good, then let's head back to camp. Duncan will fill you three on what you need to do when we head out into the Korcari Wilds." He knelt down in front of the Mabari rubbing the mastiff's ears; "Bet you could take down the Arch-Demon couldn't you?"

Loke barked happily. Marcus and Gin only rolled their eyes while two ladies giggled. Standing back up Alistair gestured for them to follow.

XxX ~ xx ~ XxX

Walking through the camp the group made one quick stop as Neria walked over to the Mabari kennels seeing two human men talking. One in hard leathers who Alistair explained was an Ash Warrior conversing with the kennel master. Their topic was the dark grey furred Mabari who looked unwell. The hound was what got Neria's attention as she spoke to the men about what was wrong with him. The kennel master explained the mastiff had lost his master and got a bit of darkspawn blood in his mouth.

The Ash warrior took over saying that due to how mabari were uniquely bred, they could survive and become immune to the Blight with the help of a rare flower which grows in the Wilds. However neither had much success in calming the poor hound as he had been stubborn since being brought to the kennels.

Without even thinking Neria said she would try, much to the surprise of the two men and the others who joined her. Brianna quickly tried to make her reconsider but her longtime friend had already open the kennel and walked in. Amell only mumbled about Neria always had a fondness for animals to the others.

The grey mabari growled lowly but the elven mage remained calm before she knelt down and extended her hand. The poor thing looked exhausted and in pain but held his stance for a minute or so as all were quiet. Slowly its posture relaxed as Neria showed no signs of aggression or threatening moves toward him. The pained large mastiff came over sniffing Neria's hand. A long sigh escaped the rest as the mabari soon licked her hand and let her pet him. Gently she placed the muzzle on the large hound that soon sat and whimpered.

Going out of the kennel, the man in charge of the hounds thanked her. Neria asked the Ash Warrior what type of flower they needed and was given a small detailed sketch on paper. Bidding farewells after Neria said she'd get the flower, they made their way to the Warden Camp. And a bewildered look came from Alistair's eyes; "Who are those three?"

The others looked and saw Sofie speaking with Ser Jory, a tall short brunette haired pale skinned man in Warden Plate armor. Beside them Miara and Daveth, a common looking man with short black hair and stubble, in armor much like Gin's were joking around as both were laughing. Near the large bonfire at the center of the camp Serana and Duncan were talking.

"Allies" Marcus answered, "Like me they'll be joining us"

Daveth made intricate motions with his hands, detailing a previous 'job' of him. "-the ring slid right off her finger. She never knew it was taken" He proudly said.

Miara barked a laugh, "Nice! That's not an easy job to perform. Oh let me tell you about a job a friend of mine did once. You ever tried taking jewelry that was attached to the body?"

"You mean like earring?" The stubble man said, "Nah, too risky. Don't know many who tried, do know they all got caught though." His eyes soon widened, "You don't mean to tell me this friend of yours actually pulled it off and got earrings?"

The elf's smile became very sly, "Oh it wasn't earrings~"

His jaw hanged loose, "No..."

"Nipple. Piercings"

"Nooooo!" He said excitedly, almost bouncing on the balls of his feet. "This friend of yours is like... a goddess of thieves or something!"

"Or something" She smirked knowingly, "Let's just say Karliah is damn lucky"

Alistair gave Marcus a dry look, the young noble winced a bit at the casual talk of thievery. "They can be trusted, believe me"

Beside the jovial duo Sofie spoke casually with Ser Jory; "Oh that sounds wonderful. When is your wife due to give birth?"

"Not too long. I figured after Ostagar I would go back to see them."

Sofie crossed her arms; "You choose a dangerous line of work."

"True, but a noble one. And from what Duncan explained the Wardens pay very well. This way I can provide for my wife and child."

The Nord woman gave the man a smile as he patted his shoulder. It was then they took noticed of everyone approaching; "Welcome back!"

"So you guys are coming along too?" Neria asked as she gripped her stave nervously.

Miara gave a nod to the comment; "Since Darkspawn are not in our lands we need to know what we're dealing with. So when Marcus asked to join you lot to the wilds for some experience, so did we."

"More the merrier I say," Daveth smirked.

It was then Duncan and Serana noticed them; "Ah there you all are." As the commander spoke to Alistair and the recruits the vampire walked over holding a leather dog's collar; "This is for Loke."

"If it's a fashion statement" Alistair quipped, "I don't think it goes with his eyes"

The mabari growled at him while the vampire knelt and wrapped the collar around his neck.

"Okay, okay!" The Warden help up his hands in surrender, "You look very fashionable in it"

Miara held back a snort.

Marcus knelt down next to his hound, ruffling his ears as he inspected the collar. "Thank you Serana, saved me trouble of getting him his own collar" It was important to single out which mabari had owners and which not if he was going to stay in the kennels.

"It's actually more than that" The tall woman explained, "If Darkspawn blood is deadly, then it wouldn't do for your furry friend here to go about biting them. So I enchanted this collar to ward off any blood from going down his throat"

He blinked in surprise, "That's... very thoughtful of you. Here I was worrying about Loke risking the same fate as the other mabari" That was a big weight lifted off his shoulder. The dog barked in gratitude as he leaped at the woman and slobbered her with big sloppy tongue kisses.

"Ugh I get, I get it" She groaned as she tried to push the hound back. "You're welcome" Serana couldn't help but smile, for a dog of his size he could be rather cute.

"That's a... interesting type of enchantment" Neria carefully spoke, keeping her eyes on the nord woman. "Enchanting something to interact blood like that is uncommon in these regions of Thedas" She didn't need to say which parts of their continent practiced things like that.

Serana snorted, "Oh dear, I can feel your judgement from a mile away"

The trio from Tamriel had already explained to Duncan, Gin, Neria, and Brianna they could use magic on the way to Ostagar. It came as large shock for the commander and recruits that the arcane arts were widely and openly practiced with no Chantry and templars wanting to throw you in the Circles.

Being told of the numerous schools of the arcane in Tamriel, several made Neria and Brianna openly wary. "It's not judgement, just concern. Such a practice is highly dangerous."

"Magic is dangerous if you don't know what you're doing. But the schools here, compared to the magic I practice, are hilariously underwhelming, crude, and archaic." Serana stated crossing her arms.

Duncan cleared his throat as he noticed Brianna was about to argue back; "At the present moment it is a tool like any form of magic. Against the Blight, all is needed."

Oh the two circle mages were not happy but said nothing as they both conceded with a nod. Alistair gave a look to Gin who sighed; "Long story for later."

"Now," the warden commander spoke sternly; "You recruits will be entering the Korcari wilds. Marcus and his Mabari along with our friends from Tamriel will be going along so they can know and understand of the threat we face. For you recruits I want you all to retrieve a sample of Darkspawn blood and put it into a vial Alistair will give you. As for why you are doing this, it is part of your Joining. I cannot say any further."

"Is it to test how we fare against the Darkspawn, Ser Warden?" Jory asked.

"In part" Duncan curtly replied, "However, it is not your only task. In the wilds there is a fallen tower that once belonged to our order, inside the ruins there is a chest which contains a copy of the treaties we Wardens can use to recruit aid from multiple sources if there is a Blight to fight. I like to be cautious so it's best if you retrieve that second set of documents"

"Better than safe than sorry" Brianna shrugged, "Doesn't sound too dangerous"

"The tower is deep into the wild's territory, where the Darkspawn scouting parties have set out their forward camps" The Warden-Commander explained. "You'll be fighting a good number of them"

"Straight to the fight I see" Gin muttered dryly. "Here I was hoping to relax this afternoon, maybe have some tea..."

Duncan chuckled at his quip, "what is it they say? 'No rest for the wicked'"

XxX ~ xx ~ XxX ~ xx ~ XxX ~ xx ~ XxX

So, this chapter originally was gonna be MUCH longer. Going over the part of the swamp and all. But we realized it would be too long, so we cut it down for later.

Hope you enjoy.