Disclaimer: We do not own Dragon age and Elder Scrolls series
Co-Author and Beta: Etheral-23
Blood and fang: Act I
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The night sky shone brilliantly with the stars and moons above as the Dovahkiin and company settled into camp. Taking a place a good distance away from the Imperial Highway, they settled in a large clearing with several tents and campfires going. Yet despite the calm from the heavens above, it was tense down below.
Sten's gaze mostly lingered upon the ruby scale dragon for whom Miara introduced to him and Leliana to a few days after they started their emergency journey to the Dalish camps. The towering man showed neither shock nor surprise, but stood ready for combat along with Leliana when Odahviing flew down to them days ago. Which was quickly quelled as the three ladies from Tamriel explained the dragon was family to them.
Testament to Qunari discipline, the man's brow only rose as the great dragon had also spoke back. 'This joor smells… different, but seems competent for battle at the very least.' The beautiful redhead only gawked for the longest time.
Odahviing rested closely near the grey skinned elf (Another thing she summarized to the now former lay-sister and Qunari), Sofie, and Serana who sat on a log near the main campfire. His draconian blues gazed with vague interest as Marcus sat opposite of them with Neria beside him, both had their hounds resting close. Gin sat on a large rock near the group with Alistair rested on another log by the fire.
Leliana sat near Sofie as she listened to the ongoing argument that had been going on between Miara and Marcus since leaving Lothering.
"I am not saying we should ignore the dalish's plea for aid. But we cannot ignore the fact that while we're otherwise busy in the Brecilian forest, the Landsmeet shall pass us by before we can meet with the nobility and present our case, Loghain would have already poured poison down their ears"
"And I keep telling you" Sofie's mother replied in a clipped frustrated tone. "There is nothing we can do about it. If we do not act now, we will lose an entire fighting force that can help us stop the Blight"
"This is why you should go to the dalish" Marcus argued, "While I travel to Denerim and speak to the Landsmeet"
"Out of the question" The dunmer staunchly refused. "We don't know how far Howe's reach extends. Traveling alone to Denerim might as well mean your death"
The Cousland scoffed, pacing before the glow of the campfire. His armor neatly arranged next to his leather sleeping blanket, he crossed his arms over his linen shirt before slowly rubbing a stubble chin. "Either we lose the dalish, or potentially lose support from the nobility"
Leliana saw Neria shift uncomfortably from her seat in front of the fire, "Will all the nobility believe Loghain's words?"
"I highly doubt all would" It was Alistair who intervened as he sharpened his sword with a whetstone. "I know for a fact Arl Eamon will never accept his excuses"
"Our son Oryrn sent us the message that this Eamon had already departed for Denerim" Serana spoke up, momentarily stopping her task of running an inventory check on all their potions. "If he is the kind of man you say he is, we might still have an ally among them"
Marcus let out a sigh, "At least we know Eamon will stand up to Loghain's madness" He tiredly ran a hand over his face. "Alright... alright, the dalish are our next priority then. We'll deal with Loghain later"
The young noble glanced over to Morrigan's more private tent away from the rest with her campfire before sitting by Neria again. "It's like everything is going crazy at once." He murmured as he stared into the fire. The elven mage at his side offered a calming pat on his shoulder.
Brianna, who had been reading some Tamriel tomes near Gin at the bottom of the boulder raised her head; "Least we have plenty of silver since your other daughter said she and the Dalish were fending off werewolves of all things."
"Sarya" The dunmer confirmed, "Dalish mages and their warriors are doing what they can against them. But the were-beasts have been relentless." Miara stated as she drank some water. "She has a barrier put up, but it can only do so much. And my youngest daughter doesn't call for help unless it is something she knows she can't handle alone."
"...Never thought I'd ever meet the Dalish," Neria whispered with a fidget petting Bran's head.
Gin glanced towards his fellow elf; "You know they are not too fond of outsiders. Unless a City elf wants to join them, we're kind of seen just as bad as Shem... No offense." The young elf spoke quickly to every human around them.
Alistair waved it off still working on his sword; "A few Dalish joined the Grey Wardens, heard a few things from them. Sometimes I think the Dalish have the right idea living in the forest and off the land."
"Ahhh yes, I know how that is. Me and my family lived like that for a time" Miara smiled peacefully as she sat next to her beloved, who finally put away the last of their potions in their satchels, and cuddled up with her before the fire. "Just you, your family and nature. The peace and quiet away from the buzz of civilization and danger..." She sighed contently, "Gods I hated every single minute of it"
"Not how I thought that phrase would turn out" Brianna muttered to herself.
"Oh I just couldn't stand it!" The elf laid her head on her lover's shoulder. "It was always so boring; all I could think about every day was how much I really wanted to kill something..."
"Simple life was not for you huh?" Alistair dryly said as he uncorked his water sack.
"Not even a little bit" Serana quipped. "This woman lives by the sword and she will die by it... Well, I say that, but this woman is hard to put down. And believe me, I tried"
"Are you..." Neria slowly said, "talking hyperbole or...?"
"Oh no, literally I tried to kill her back when we first met" She said fondly as she placed an arm around Miara who smiled fondly in remembrance.
The city elf gave them a long look, "Right, should expect answers like that by now. Anyway" He tried to switch the subject to something probably less crazy. "Werewolves" As soon as he said it, he realized the subject wouldn't be any less insane. "That's an old Ferelden legend. I have no idea what we're up against"
"Well you're in luck my tiny friend" Sofie smirked at him, ignoring the indignant reply from Gin. "We in Tamriel have experience fighting were-creatures"
Leliana turned her gaze towards Marcus; "Wasn't it your ancestor who fought against were-beasts?"
"It's how my family became teyrnirs. Haelia Cousland banded everyone together and fought them in the Black Age. She was never sure if all perished or not." Marcus gazed down to his family's sword once held by Haelia then shifted towards Sofie; "Tamriel has dealt with Were-beasts?"
Sofie nodded; "Still do, Werewolves, Werebears, Werelions... some legends speak of Weresharks and other beasts. But the most known and encountered are first three I mentioned."
"Are Were-beasts encountered where you're from Sten?" Miara questioned as she turned her head over to the Qunari who was cleaning his armor.
"Minor sightings."
And that was all the stoic man would say before resuming his work. Leliana shook her head; "Are those actually real? Werebears and Werelions?"
"They are." All three ladies of Tamriel chorused. "Serana and I had fought least a dozen werebears in Solstheim," the dunmer grumped.
As everyone took in what they heard Serana had stared into the fire for a minute; "Has Thedas ever had vampires?"
Miara narrowed her gaze, "Serana..." She said warningly. The elf's beloved merely replied with a look of her own. Right, this wasn't something that they'd be able to keep hidden for long. And it'd only hurt in the long run the longer they keep it secret.
"That's a very old legend" Neria replied, recalling the various lore books she had read on the matter. "It varies from land to land. Most say vampires are just a type of lich that achieved their state through blood magic, an undead subtype really. Nowadays the Circles believe that vampires could been just some Abominations that shared similar characteristics"
"Some study groups in the Circle theorize the accounts of 'vampires' in lore" Brianna continued, "are due to old blood mages having been able to extend their lives to unnatural lengths through blood sacrifice, originally by means of blood consumption"
The nord pursed her lips, slowly exhaling through her nostrils, all the while her beloved and daughter observed her carefully. "Yeah, that's not off the mark really. We have vampires in Tamriel, you see"
"You do?" The human mage said in surprise, her black locks swaying wildly with the sharp turn of her head. "My, your lands sound more fascinating by the second. And here I thought the talking dragon already set the highest bar possible, no offense big guy"
The red dragon merely grunted content with resting not too far from the camp.
"You see, vampires are a type of undead. People can become vampires through contacting a disease carried in the vampire's blood"
"Oh..." Neria balked in mild horror. "The legends spoke about vampires enthralling people but... nothing about them turning others into more of their kind"
"Well, that's something they can do..." The nord very carefully said, measuring her next words. "Or rather... WE can do"
A pause gripped the area as all eyes around her slowly turned towards her with a chill growing in the air. Sten's hand slowly gripped the hilt of his blade. He soon took note of Odahviing's head being up and peering straight at him. "Gin," the city elf froze as the Nordic woman peered over to him. "When we first met in Denerim, what did you notice about my smile?"
Like he could ever forget...
"…Y-you grew fangs..."
"Also. Want to know 'who' put everyone to sleep at Vaughn's home and slaughtered the wretched pig and his friends for what they were going to do to Shianni and the others?"
"THAT WAS YOU!?" Gin's normal calm demeanor broke in a blink as he pointed at the vampiric woman.
It was then everyone took notice of Serana's eyes. Since they had met they had been green, but now... they bore an orange-red hue as she gave an apologetic look; "Sorry 'bout scaring those girls. I've always hated rapists and can't stop myself from tearing them apart."
"Ra- You're a vampire! The walking undead!" Alistair outright screamed as he gripped his sword. Leliana looked ready to grab her bow with a fearful gaze in her eyes
"And here I'd at least thought my two 'fellow' Thedosian mages would have figured that out." All eyes shifted over to Morrigan who now leaned against a tree. "I had thought Kinloch Hold taught their indoctrinated on how to sniff out undead." Brianna and Neria gave the woman a heated glare. "You hide it well by the way Serana. But the smell of death is not easy to mask."
"Your mother and the wilds taught you well." Serana quipped dryly as she now peered at the fearful bunch; "I am vampire. I have been one for a very, very long time. I figured now was the best time to be honest with it. Since we're all fighting as a group."
The drawing of a blade caught their attention; Sten stood a good distance away from the now revealed vampire with a wary look in his eyes. The rest didn't know if they should either run or fight, the sudden revelation about their companion being such a creature was frightening. If Serana was such a dangerous being, one who feasted on others through such vile means then...
Heavy stomps echoed in the night, and the growling visage of Odahviing became ever near. The great dragon's spike of aggression was born out of protectiveness.
"Peace, peace" Serana raised her hand, trying to stop the situation from escalating out of control. "I don't hurt innocent people, and the only blood I drink is that from those willing, or from the truly wicked who deserve to die"
Neria slowly shook her head, "Does that make it okay? Serana you just admitted you're a very dangerous... person" The others got the impression she wanted to say something like 'creature'.
"We're all dangerous, dear" Miara merely shrugged, "I can grind people to dust with my Voice. You can set someone's head on fire with a thought. Gin can stab you and you'll likely never see it coming. And Sten, well, we all heard what Sten did..."
The qunari let out a very soft yet rumbling growl.
"They taught you to fear the unknown, children" The vampire spoke, her voice gaining a serious edge. "This is what I am, who I am. We cannot help our nature sometimes, but we can learn control, discipline. Know right from wrong"
"And what possibly compelled you to become a vampire?" Marcus question with an edge of his own. His voice rousing both Loke and Bran.
Serana gazed at the young man who impressively kept his composure. "I was once a devote to the Daedric Prince Molag Bal. Or rather, my entire family was. I was a much different person many, many years ago. While yes, I truly despise and loathe how I became undead. I don't regret being undead."
She would have never met Miara had she not become a vampire.
"And before any of you say anything," Sofie soon addressed as she now stood; "Not once since I was seven years old has my mother Serana ever bit or harmed me. She and Miara took me in when I had nothing, so if any of you wants to be stupid and try to harm her, it's not my mother Miara and Odahviing you should worry about."
The atmosphere was tense around the others save Morrigan; "I for one have no desire to die young. Moreover, I know better than to enrage my betters. And if the rest of you are so ingrained of what the Chantry or Qun taught to be fearful of something different by all means try attacking them." The young witch remained where she was as she observed everyone.
"If you are uncomfortable with my mother's nature" Sofie retorted once more, "We can just leave, but just a head's up, we'll be taking my 'uncle' with us"
Odahviing let out a growling sound that sounded a lot like laughter.
The young Wardens looked amongst themselves with uncertainty; they had clearly offended their allies with their outburst at the revelation of Serana's vampiric status. Such that for a moment they had forgotten all the woman had done for them, fighting against the Darkspawn in Ostagar, healing them after being gravely wounded. She and her family had been nothing but helpful to them in times of need, now more than ever with so many odds stacked against them.
They had accepted Miara's nature as a dragon (even if some still did not fully understand the implications of such), what was an undead amongst their ranks compared to that?
A Blight wasn't a time to be picky about your allies.
"Perhaps..." Marcus tactfully spoke, "We were rash in our assessment. Forgive us, Serana"
"I'm... sorry too" Neria remorsefully hung her head in shame, "It's just, the world outside the Tower isn't anything like I would have thought. I guess it was simpler to look at things in black and white"
"You saved Shianni and the others from those disgusting shems." Gin bowed his head respectfully, "So I'm indebted to you"
"Oh" The nord woman just waved off their words with a polite grin, "Trust me, I get it. I wouldn't trust another vampire. We are very dangerous beings after all. I'm just one of the few that chooses not to be an ass"
"Now if your mother could bother to learn by your example." Miara's off handed comment earned her a smack on the arm by her lover. "It's true."
Serana only glowered; "She has gotten better," she let out a mild huff. Her eyes soon peered onto Sten who sheathed his weapon, albeit hesitantly. "I imagine my actions will speak louder than words to you." The Qunari gave a slow nod; "Then I shall endeavor to earn your trust Sten."
"...We shall see." Sitting back down the man resumed his work, but kept an eye on the Tamriel group.
Odahviing grunted as he lay back down; "And here I thought I would have an evening snack."
"...He's joking right?" Gin questioned again seeing the dragon grin (again) at him.
Sofie ran her hand over her face as she sat back down; "Go ask him."
"No thank you!"
XxX ~ xx ~ XxX
Well, today... okay the last few days had been a little crazy, far as Alistair was concerned. What with the talking dragon and walking undead in their group, things had gotten tense back there but... well; he wanted to think they have solved the issue before it became a problem down the line.
Nothing a good piece of roasted rabbit couldn't solve. He placed the cooked meat between two slices of bread and a piece of cheese for the final touch. Taking a strong bite he felt the flavor of the meat mesh perfectly well with the cheese as it melted with its heat. Ah yes, had to be thankful with the Orlesians for making such fine cheese if anything.
He munched his meal with wanton abandon, oh he could just hear lady Isolde complaining about his horrible table manners if she saw him, ignoring the fact they were far away from civilization and the concept of 'table manners' was something nobles invented to feel superior to everyone.
"I have to ask" With a mouth full, he turned to the dunmer who walked up to him from being over to Odahviing. "Is that appetite a Warden thing? I'm asking cause, well..." She gave a dry look at the other three Wardens, who were devouring their meal with great speed, consuming a far larger amount than what people their size would.
Gulping down a bit of her own food, with the help of some water, Brianna leaned a bit forward; "I had noticed that I've been a tab more hungry than normal. Hope it won't ruin my figure." she murmured to herself.
Despite the fact Gin, Neria, and Miara heard her thanks to their ears; "Goes to your breasts anyways." Neria Quipped before she froze in mid-bite. "…D-Did I just say that out loud?" Her ears dipped as her eyes glanced over to her side at the sight of blushing twitching glare from her longtime friend.
Gin only ate quietly with a faint red on his cheeks along with Alistair.
"I have to say they are nearly as big as my own, but we're going off topic." Miara shrugged before giving a pointed look to the former Templar.
"Well." the young man cleared his throat composing himself; "It is a side-effect of taking in the Taint. There are some others I should tell you three of." Bri, Neria, and Gin soon gave Alistair their attention along with Miara; "Well, no way I can make this delicate. You will have Bad dreams and infertility."
At that last portion the trio froze. "We're inferetil?!" Brianna nearly yelled, gaining the others attention around the camp.
"W-well, it will be harder to have children. Not to say some members have not had any after the Joining." Alistair stressed as he addressed her quickly
"Goodness..." Leliana muttered, feeling bad for her companions. The thought of raising a family had never crossed her mine herself, but still, robbing people of the possibility was a terrible thing.
"I... okay" The dark tanned elf slowly said, her gaze becoming downcast. "Let me just... process that for a moment"
"I'm sorry, I shouldn't have dropped that on you so bluntly" The senior Warden spoke with regret. Tsk, he and his big mouth, he should have been more tactful about it. "But, it's something you have to know"
Neria honestly did not know how to feel about it. Brianna on the other hand...
"Not that it makes any difference for us" The human mage shook her head, "We're mages, Neria. We were never going have a family; the Templars wouldn't have allowed it"
"You are very cynical about it" Miara commented.
"Well that is how things work in Thedas. If a couple of mages mess it up and get pregnant, then the child is immediately taken away. One way or another, the concept of rising a family is simply impossible for us mages" She sounded like she was just stating facts. "And we're Wardens now; I don't think that leaves much room for a family"
"Hey, our lives are extremely hectic and we made it work" Serana pointed out.
"The point is academic anyway" Brianna replied. "Decreased fertility sees to that"
Neria's ears dipped ever so slightly, "I guess so..." She said before turning to her fellow elf. "What are your thoughts on the matter, Gin?"
The city elf merely looked at the camp fire with an unreadable expression, "Hmph"
Well, that was that...
Brianna wanted to move on from the somber subject, and fast. "Now, you said something about bad dreams? 'Cause I gotta tell you, we mages already have enough with demons tempting us"
Better to be straight forward about all of it he supposed. "You'll be having nightmares about the Darkspawn. They vary but most are usually the same. They're not pleasant, trust me on that." His voice haunted as still recalled his first few.
"Taking in the Taint, it connected you to those beasts didn't it?" Serana questioned sipping a small bottle. By the surprised expression from the young man she was right; "I'm an alchemist, one of the best out of three in Skyrim. When Duncan told you to get Darkspawn blood it may me wonder. 'Why do they need blood from those blighted creatures?'"
And she had figured out the rest that quickly? Well any Alchemist worth their grain of salt likely could if they heard about retrieving Darkspawn blood for the Joining. Alistair gave a resigning nod; "Indeed, it is how we can sense them around. But that is a double-edged sword since they sense us too."
Sofie shook her head beside Marcus who was in thought. "Any more bad news about being a Grey Warden?" The nord asked petting a slumbering Loke's head.
"Just... One more." The man gravely murmured before looking to the new Wardens. "Despite our measures in the Joining, we are still taking in Darkspawn taint. So our life expectancy is not very high..." By those words he had everyone's full and complete attention.
Gin, Neria, and Brianna's eyes did not blink for a moment.
"Unless you die in battle, you have thirty years... By then, well, you've seen the ghouls in Ostagar."
It took a moment for the newly minted Wardens to properly process his words.
"You're fucking kidding me" Gin muttered in disbelief, his green eyes alit with outrage. "Being a Warden is a death sentences every step of the way then. If it's not the Joining, or the Spawn, it's the Taint still in your veins that will do you in..."
"Thirty years?" The elven mage said disheartened. "I'm... still in my early twenties, you mean to tell me I won't even reach..." She couldn't even finish her words. Brianna held her hand tightly.
"I'm sorry" It was all the senior Warden could say.
The camp fell silent, Sofie's lips pursed in displeasure at the news while Leliana covered her mouth in shock. Miara shared an uneasy look with her lover. Time had little grasp on them due to their natures, but they were still very much aware of how its passage still affected mortals greatly.
It was hard not to sympathize with the young Wardens. They had just been told their days were numbered, even if it was decades from now. Few could cope with such knowledge.
"Hmph" A loud snort came from Odahviing, and Miara prayed to Akatosh he wouldn't say something stupid. "Mortals always hold their mortality at the forefront of their minds" It wasn't mockery in his tone, but actual mindful insight. "How can you even live like that is... beyond me"
He had tasted that one blasphemous Shout at the hands of his dear sister, back when they met as foes. The mortality, the finite existence that mortals experienced, it had hit him with such force his body gave up, his wings couldn't flap, the sheer pain that struck his soul...
Mortality was something truly alien to the dov. Odahviing saw it as a cruelty imposed by the gods, but he could not deny that having experienced a taste of that mortality from that terrifying Shout, he now understood how the joore thought, and the reasons behind their actions.
"Thirty years is an entire lifetime for a warrior" He continued. "Many fall in battle within the decade. Countless fighters do not even make it beyond the first year. And droves of them perish in their first battle" He rested his head on the ground. "Why concern yourself with how many years you have left, when each second in the battlefield might very well be your last?"
Sten of all people remarked as he ate his food close by them. "The Ataashi speaks correctly."
"Ataashi?" Miara and Serana queried with dual cocked brows. Even Odahviing appeared mildly curious.
"Our word for Dragon." After that the large man grew silent once more.
Hmm, the Dunmer actually liked that. She turned her gaze to the new Wardens; "As my Zeymah said. Don't focus on what may happen. Focus on the now."
Despite the forlorn upon Neria's face she gave a nod before resting her head on Brianna's shoulder. Her expression was the same as she soon held her friend in a hug. Gin rose from where he was; "Please excuse me." He uttered before leaving the group to gather his thoughts.
Well, suffice to say nobody was feeling hungry anymore...
XxX ~ xx ~ XxX
Some of the members of their party had already turned in for the night, Neria, Gin and Brianna in particular. Miara just hoped those nightmares that would afflict them wouldn't be so bad. Marcus was slipping inside his bedroll, biding the others a good rest.
Sten remained vigilant, it was his turn to take watch. Miara still felt very apprehensive regarding the qunari's presence in their group, Sofie vouched for him, which was enough for her. But still, to hear how he had murdered an entire family of farmers, children including... The dunmer had done horrible things in her life, but some things were sacred. If he truly wanted atonement, he would prove it with his actions. Fitting, as Sten seemed to be a man of very few words.
Finally her eyes settled on Alistair, his gaze lost as he stared up at the heavenly lit skies, she could pick up his mouths moving slightly, but the words he uttered were too low for her elven ears to hear.
"I believe he is praying" The musical voice of the redhead her daughter was so fond of spoke, Leliana had walked up to the dunmer as the two looked at the senior Warden. "He lost nearly all his brothers and sisters of the Order at Ostagar, I cannot imagine what that must be like. I hope the Maker can offer him some comfort"
"He did mention they were more like family to him than those in the Templar order." The dark elf recalled a small conversation with the young man on the imperial road to the Dalish. Thus her feet moved before realizing she had walked over to the Warden as he sat on his bedroll; "How are you?"
Alistair turned his gaze to the Dragonborn who took a seat on the grass in front of him. "Well...Bit shameful for a man to still be like this isn't it?"
"Mourning for those you have lost is never shameful." Her tone maternal and full of understanding.
"Heh, got along so much better with them than with the Templars." The young man chuckled before staring at the ground; "They should be here. Not me." the very moment he spoke those words Miara's hand came across his cheek. He barely realized he was slapped before too long the sting came in. Not even the mothers in the Chantry hit him that hard!
He blinked in surprise at the sight of Miara's stern crimson gaze; "Don't you ever disrespect their sacrifice in such a way. Am I understood?" Alistair quickly nodded with no rebuke, holding his cheek as her eyes grew soft again as did her voice; "They fully understood the risks, Duncan most of all. He entrusted you to handle the rest as they held the line. Is it fair, no. But you must press forward to honor their memory and sacrifice they made was not in vain." Leaning forward Alistair froze before a warm glow came from the elf's hand. His bruised cheek now faded as if it was never there.
"Thanks" He tenderly touched his previously sore cheek. "I just... I can't help but think I could have done something. Maybe if I had been there at his side..."
"Then it's most likely you would have died too" Miara said, "Trust me Alistair, if you keep thinking 'what if' you'll drive yourself crazy" Regrets were a trap that once it got a hold of you, they would never let go.
The young man let out a soft sigh. The sadness still present in his eyes.
"He meant a lot to you" The dunmer gently said.
"Was pretty much the only person who ever asked me what I wanted" He let out a tiny snort, "Grew up a stable boy in Redcliffe. No parents. Nothing. You know how that is, most people in that situation can only aspire to be a servant for life. I was luckier than most I guess, Arl Eamon showed me kindness, gave me an education. Drove his wife mad with suspicion because she kept thinking I was perhaps his bastard"
"Hmm... are you?" It was a legitimate question in Miara's opinion.
"Pfft, no" He laughed out. "Both my parents were servants of his, my mother a maid, my dad a stable hand. But he had been fond of them, always said they were good and kind people. So he saw it fit to take me in... Didn't stop Lady Isolde from suspecting though. Maker" He scratched his cheek. "That woman wielded her tongue and foul mood like a weapon"
"Sounds like delightful company" Miara deadpanned recalling a very people like that.
"Perhaps after a few drinks she is" The Warden quipped, garnering a chuckle from the elf. "But, it got to the point he saw fit to send me to the Chantry to be trained under the Templars"
"Ah" The picture he painted was beginning to come together. "You didn't like it"
"Wouldn't have been my first choice" He admitted in a blank tone, "Don't get me wrong, I believe in the Maker, I say my prayers. But that kind of life... it just wasn't for me"
"You found your calling, not many get that;" Miara bemused as she crossed her arms under her bust. "From what I've learn of your Templars they are very different from my son and those back in Tamriel."
Alistair smirked; "Have to tell me some time about them."
The elf gave a nod with a grin before mulling over how to ask something; "Can you tell me about Duncan?"
A small pang gleamed in the boy's eyes; "He did not tell me much about his life, he was a boy who was a thief on the streets in Orlais to survive. Killed a man and was going to be executed if not for the late Warden Commander Genevieve. Felt there was more to it but never pressed." Alistair paused; "Stern but fair, kind when needed to be. Rarely if ever did he raise his voice in anger." He chuckled; "Templar martial training might be the best, but Duncan could defeat any Templar on a bad day."
Part of that Miara could tell he was bragging, but not all of it. There was a great deal of experience that shone in Duncan's eyes. He was good enough to sense Serana in the shadows in Denerim as her lover had told her. And skill to detect both Serana in stealth was nothing to sneeze at.
"I think he would be proud" She said, words filled with kindness. "That you young brave Wardens will carry out your duty to the end, against all odds"
"Thank you" He said sincerely, "It feels good to have someone to talk about him"
The gave a nod "Whenever you need an ear, I'm always available"
XxX ~ xx ~ XxX
Leliana watched as Miara and Alistair had parted ways, the Warden appeared much more at ease. Like a weight had been lifted from his shoulders.
"Your mother is a kind woman" The redhead said, sitting next to Sofie in front of the former lay-sister's tent.
"She's a mother" Sofie merely shrugged, "She knows when to apply a strong hand and when a gentle one is needed"
"Mothers are wise indeed" Leliana said with respect, a smile tugging at her lips.
"They're the best I could ask for" The nord smiled, giving her mothers' a small nod, biding them goodnight as they entered their tent. A comfortable silence hung between them, before Sofie broke it. "You can go to sleep now, my shift comes after Sten's so..."
"Its fine" Leliana gently said, "I like spending time with you"
"Ah" The nord really thanked it was dark enough that the redhead couldn't make out her cheeks reddening. "I feel the same, you're a wonderful conversationalist"
"Well" Leliana not so humbly smiled, "Something I picked with my travels you could say"
"Hmm" That did bring up some questions the nord had been meaning to ask her, "Can I ask you something, Leli?"
"Of course"
"Where did you learn to fight like that?"
Her smile dropped, and her blue eyes widened slightly. "Oh. It is... a long story." There was a touch of shame in her voice.
Sofie felt like kicking herself at seeing the look from the beautiful redhead's eyes to the ground. "Sorry, that was probably too soon to ask."
At that Leli shook her head; "It's fine... Just this is not something I like talking about too much." Or at all honestly. But having had gotten to know Sofie when she had been in Lothering weeks prior. Knowing the kind of woman she is. Maybe she could say a little. "I'm... A Bard."
For a minute it was quiet between them till a cock of the head and brow from the Nordic woman; "Can you elaborate please?"
Leliana's cheeks became flushed; "Oh sorry. I am, or was an Orlesian Bard, I was an assassin."
Sofie's expression swiftly shifted from surprise to incredulity, her eyes wondered a moment as if trying to find the clues that would piece together what Leliana had just confessed before finally settling on the redhead once more. "Really? Those are professions that usually don't go together. That and I'm having a hard time picturing you as one"
"Heh, well" The Orlesian softly smiled, "That means I haven't lost my touch then" Her smile wavered a bit. "In all honestly, you wouldn't recognize the person I used to be" Her lips pursed in shame, "I... honestly wasn't sure if to tell you this. I haven't known you for long, but I know you're a kind person I can trust" Her actions in Lothering proved the sort of character Sofie possessed. "I didn't want you to think ill of me..."
"I argued for the man who butchered a family to be in our party" The nord argued, thrusting her chin Sten's direction, the qunari standing ever vigilant at his post. "You really think I'd care about your past? Besides, you wouldn't have been a sister in that small town if you still followed that path"
Immense relief washed over her, Leliana let out her worries with a long dragged out sigh. "Thank you, it means a lot to me"
Sofie smiled that wonderful smile of hers, resting her hand upon Leliana's in a comforting gesture. Leliana told herself her stomach was flipping around because the rabbit she ate must have had something that didn't agree with her.
"So, assassin bard huh?" The nord arched an eyebrow. "That's an Orlesian profession I bet"
"Indeed" Leliana nodded, "Orlesian bards are not just minstrels, and we are agents in the great Game of intrigue. We are employed to do many things. We distract people with our songs and tales, spread rumors that can tarnish someone's name, plant evidence that will destroy a noble's reputation, sabotage their business so they don't have coin to back up their status, or even poison their drinks or bury our blades when their back is turned"
Sofie took it all in stride, "Government sanctioned rogues then? We have a few of those back home, the Great Houses of Morrowind employ assassins called the Morag Tong"
"Nothing so formal. There is no 'official' stance on us Bards, they been part of Orlais politics for a very long time"
Hmm, so something that has simply been a part of Orlais culture. More she learns about her pretty friend's nation the more it sounded much like High Rock. Still, "Thank you for trusting me about some of your past."
"I only ever shared it with Mother Servilia when coming to Lothering. I was grateful of her open mindedness and giving me a chance." Leli sighed with a small smile. "I'll never forget my time there."
"And it seemed to have done you some good. But I still want to ask, are you sure you want to be fighting again?"
The Bard nodded; "This way my talents will do more good than they ever did in my time in Orlais." Hearing the resolve in her voice was all that Sofie needed to hear.
"Alright," she gave a pat on Leli's shoulder before standing and grabbing her sword; "My turn for watch duty. Get some sleep."
XxX ~ the next day ~ XxX
Odahviing kept to the skies above as the group has resumed their sojourn to the Dalish camps. It had been an hour before Marcus took note of the familiar landscape of the vast Brecilian forest. The steps of Miara, Serana, and Sofie quickened as they left the Imperial highway.
The thought of Sarya being in trouble worried the trio immensely. Part of it was fear out of what could happen to her, but most of their concerns were what would happen if Sarya was pushed against the wall. Collateral damage wasn't in that girl's vocabulary.
"Well the forest is still here" Sofie voiced her opinion, "That's a good sign right?"
"Give it time" Serana deadpanned.
The younger Wardens were in much different spirits, Neria for her part felt a smile growing on her face. "I can't believe we're meeting the dalish. It'd be the first time I ever meet one, much less an entire clan!"
"I only saw a few dalish once, almost a year ago, back when a clan passed through the Denerim to trade" Gin said, "They just looked so... free" They did not carry that same aura of defeat so many elves in the alienage had. "They took someone from the alienage, Pol, who wanted to go with them and become a dalish" He mused, "Hope that life is treating him better"
For his part, the city elf felt he needed to see the dalish for himself. Miara's stories were not enough for him to picture, to actually believe elves could have a better life. Joining the Dalish was the dream of many a city elf and he'd be lying if he said it hadn't crossed his mind at times. Just, run away from it all, wonder through the wilderness unbound, without human masters that would rule over him...
Shianni's ever warm and loving smile flashed in his mind.
He could never abandon her or his family... And he doubted the Dalish would take all of them in. He pushed those thoughts aside as he and the others roamed inside the forest; "How exactly do we find the Dalish?"
At the very moment he spoke those words numerous figures leapt down from the trees while others rose from thick bushes. All with arrows drawn at them, surrounding them.
"Never mind." The group grew tense but did not draw their weapons to cause trouble. Loke and Bran growled near their respected masters.
Mithra and Fenarel came from behind large trees, the female warrior and huntress was about to address the group till she and everyone took notice of the grey skinned elven woman striding up to them. Not caring for a moment of the arrows pointed her way, though lowering now upon seeing her.
Miara stopped in front of the two; "Where is my daughter?" Fenarel had to admit this woman was VERY different compared to Sarya. And rather intimidating quite frankly as her crimson eyes bore into both of them.
The hunter stared at her for a second, "I'll take a guess and assume you're Sarya's mother" He dryly said. He motioned for the hunters to lower their bows, which they did according.
"WE are" Serana intoned strongly, standing next to beloved with her arms crossed, firmly looking down at the much shorter man.
"I see..." His tone clearly stated he did not 'see' at all. He turned his gaze to the rest of the group, mainly the ones in Warden Armor. "Oh thank the gods, Wardens. We can really use your help"
"Funny how that is" Brianna quipped, "We can here looking for the dalish's help"
"There is much to talk about" Mithra spoke up, waving for the group to follow them.
Neria and Gin watched with wide eyes as most of the dalish hunters retreated back to the foliage or climbed up the trees, disappearing in the canopy. "Wow..." That was different than disappearing amongst the crowd of the city.
"Don't stay behind" Marcus snapped them out of their stupor, and they quickly picked up their pace.
As they were guided through the forest towards the location of their camp, Alistair asked the lead hunters. "So, Miara's daughter said you were being assaulted by werewolves correct?"
"Indeed" The male hunter replied warily. "They descended upon us in great numbers. Monstrous wolf creatures like I've never seen before. Our clan fought them off but those things were incredibly fierce, their claws rendered armor like paper and they could take multiple arrows to the torso before going down"
"Sarya has been keeping a ward on the camp to keep them away" Mithra continued, "She's been at it nonstop"
Miara's eyes widened in concern, "How long has she's been keeping that ward?"
"Today, it'll be five days straight with neither sleep nor any kind of rest"
Had the dovahkiin and vampire's eyes grew any wider they likely would have popped out; "What?!" Sofie only ran her hand over her face with a sigh.
"The Keepers have been pleading with her to rest but she refuses. Said she won't stop protecting our clans till the werewolves are stopped." Mithra spoke with an unreadable hushed tone. "I never expected that from her..."
Despite her words being a whisper Miara and Serana heard her but kept focused. Hopefully they could settle their daughter down.
XxX ~ xx ~ XxX
Gin and Neria took in the tense atmosphere as they all entered the encampment of the Dalish. Elves, from children to elder none stopped moving or working as many tended to wounded, or worked to prepare better defenses. Hunters and warriors kept watch around the camp. One armored Dalish with no facial marking, and short red hair and fair skin caught his attention; "Pol!"
Upon hearing his name the elven hunter turned. Surprise lit his eyes as he saw some he had not seen since leaving Denerim. "Gin?" Leaving Gin to reconnect with the former city elf, the group pressed on.
Miara ignored the looks of surprise the many dalish were giving them, how they whispered and pointed at not only the presence of humans, but also of another elf who looked much like their guest. The mothers soon spotted Sarya at the center of the camp, kneeling around a circle of arcane sigils, focusing intently in keeping a camp-wide ward. The only sign there was one in place was the shimmering spot of arcane light many feet in the air, above the tree line even.
"Sarya!" Miara and Serana rushed over to their daughter, Sofie followed close behind.
The youngest daughter turned in surprise, a weak smile forming on her lips, "Heeeeey you made it" Though she kept a good front, the bangs under her eyes and tired tone of voice showed how exhausted she was.
Marcus noted that Sarya possessed a strong resemblance to Miara, her facial structure was a bit rounder, younger he could say, and her dark hair was pulled on a ponytail with long bangs framing the sides of her face.
"Are you okay honey?" Miara asked in concern, kneeling beside her daughter and placing a hand on her shoulder.
"Pfft, please. I've been in rougher spots before. Like when I traveled to that volcanic realm, nothing but ash and sulfur in the air"
Serana let out a long sigh, "That does not reassure us, dear..."
Sofie shook her head but smiled faintly at her sister, sometimes she proved to be more of a fighter than she was.
The Wardens and their companions stood at the sidelines, giving the family their space. "So uh" Alistair awkwardly scratched his head, "Is there someone we can talk to or..."
"That would be us" An elderly woman's voice made itself known, and two elves in distinctly different robes approached their party. An adult bald elven man and a woman who looked to be entering her winter years. "Andaran atish'an, Wardens. I am Keeper Marethari, and this is Keeper Zathrian" The woman introduced herself respectfully, placing a hand to her chest before motioning to her fellow Keeper. Though the male elf bowed his head curtly and politely, there was no mistaking the disapproving look he gave the humans of their group.
"We saw Sarya use her ring to inform you of our plight," Zathrian addressed the group before glancing over to Miara; "I was not expecting you all to arriving this swiftly. Your kind are not quick to aid mine" He offhandedly mentioned to Marcus and Alistair, keeping a weary glace on them and the swamp witch who looked around the camp with interest.
Serana fussed over her elven daughter while Miara peered back to the Keepers; "Parents don't abandoned their children when they are crying for help." Ignoring Sarya bemoaning that she was thirty-one; "Regardless of age." The dragonborn dryly glared at her daughter before gesturing to her Nordic daughter; "This is Sofie our oldest." The armored Nordic woman gave a respectful bow of the head while kneeling beside Serana.
"Sarya has told us plenty about her family. You would be Serana, correct?" Marethari was rewarded with a nod in confirmation from the hooded Nord.
Zathrian let out a sigh; "Forgive my tone. With the attacks from the werewolves everyone is on edge. I would also guess why you've came here besides Sarya's outreach to you. She informed of us of Ostagar. You seek aide against the coming Darkspawn."
"Dealing with the were-beasts and protecting the clans is priority," Marcus stated much to the centuries old elf skeptic gaze. "You can't gain allies without building trust and respect, and helping your people in need would do that yes?"
"Well-spoken young man," Marethari remarked with a nod. "Indeed we will gladly honor our oaths to the Wardens once the threat of the werewolves is done."
As the Keepers conversed with Marcus and Alistair, the trio of young mages of their group peered upwards at the ward made by Sarya. "That is a powerful spell," Brianna murmured.
Morrigan nodded beside her "And she had been keeping up for five days straight. Impressive..."
"Thank you!" The youngest child of Miara and Serana called out. Again, the elven hearing proved to be exceptional. "It's nothing really; I've done more complicated stuff. Now can somebody pass me a stamina potion so I don't fall unconscious?"
"Oh sweetie" Serana remain knelt before her child, "You need to take a rest"
"I'm fine" She replied like a petulant kid.
"We disagree" Fenarel walked up to the mage, accompanied by Mithra. "Your ward has given us time to tend to our wounded and work on our defenses. Already we have multiple sentries in vital areas of the forest; if they come back we'll be prepared this time"
A thoughtful expression form on her brow. "Alright, alright. I'll rest" She finally let the spell go, though it didn't dissipate immediately. Slowly it would fade away within the hour. "Nice work everyone!"
And with that, she fell to the side and unto her elven mother's shoulder, snoring slightly. Miara sighed to herself, running a hand over her daughter's hair. Sofie gently picked up her younger sister in her large arms.
"Right this way" The blonde hunter Mithra beckoned the large human with a wave of her hand. "She can use a tent for rest"
"Thank you" The nord remarked sincerely.
"Your sister might not be the most... agreeable person" Thankfully, Sofie snorted at Mithra's words, which showed she was well aware of how taxing Sarya could be. "But she's done a lot for the clans, and proved she can be relied upon. We dalish do not forget debts."
Sarya mumbled tiredly, her eyes not even opening, so it was hard to gauge if she was sleep talking or still awake. "What's that Mithra? Finally wanna join me and Fenarel~?"
A snicker came from Sofie at the heavy blush upon Mithra's cheeks before muttering lowly in elven. Reaching the tent and moving the cloth entrance aside, the Nordic woman placed her little sister down on a bedroll. "Sarya's a handful, been that way since she had being little. But you'll never find someone more passionate than her." The Nordic woman remained knelt down as she adjusted some of her sister's hair.
Mithra's gaze went to the ground; "Next to our warriors she fought alongside them against those beasts with no regard for her own safety, risking her very life for us. I-I honestly assumed she would have ran away the moment real danger came." Her tone full of shame as she continued; "I truly had never been more wrong about someone in my life."
To her surprise the human woman smiled back; "You've learned from your mistake. Never forget it." She walked out of the tent to fully stand. "Now let's see what we can do to help out."
XxX ~ xx ~ XxX
Bran and Loke barked playfully as they ran around the camp being followed by elven children. The clever mabari were doing their part to help as the others did the same with what they could. Sten kept a vigil alongside the Dalish warriors with Sofie and Leliana. Neria with Brianna and Serana tended to the wounded alongside a disgruntled Morrigan. Marcus, Alistair, and Miara spoke with the two Keepers of the threat.
"Never thought you of all people would become a Warden" Pol jested beside Gin as they observed the clan keeping busy.
A low grunt came from the former city elf; "That makes two of us. But was either that be get my head chopped off." Unconsciously rubbing the back of his neck. "So how's been life here?"
"Tough, but infinitely more better than having Shems breathing down your back."
"Only now it's werewolves swooping down upon you" To quote Alistair, 'swooping was bad'.
"Well, heh" Pol nervously laughed, "Can't win them all right?"
The city elf looked around the camp; the dalish were numerous but... "I'll be honest Pol, we came here to get the dalish's help. But the numbers here it's... not promising" The size of the horde haunted his dreams.
Thankfully, Pol was quick to dismiss his fears. "Oh these are just two clans yes. But we're not the only clans in Ferelden, not even the only clans in the Brecilian forest" He explained. "Once you guys help us beat the werewolves, they'll send word to the other clans. You'll have hundreds of dalish bows pointed at the 'Spawn" The redheaded elf promised with a smile.
The shaggy haired city elf shook his head amused. "Even yours?"
"Um..." At that his smile faltered. "I-I-I mean I don't even have my vallaslin yet, s-so I doubt they'd let me join the fight"
"Pol" He placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "It's fine, if your place is with your clan instead of the front lines, then that's where you must be"
"Thanks... To be honest the thought of fighting Darkspawn terrifies me. Heh" He laughed in a self-deprecating manner. "Some dalish I am, can't even show courage when it's needed"
"The Pol I knew was a scaredy cat" Gin grinned at the dry look coming from the redhead. "But even he took me by surprise when he chooses to go with the dalish. That took courage"
Pol looked at his old friend for a moment before grinning; "Thanks."
"You'll never guess who also became a Warden from the Alienage." Gin pointed over towards Neria; "Remember the girl taken from the alienage by Templars when we were kids."
The redhead peered over to where Gin's group was helping the wounded. He took a long look at the young elven mage before his ears twitched; "Neria?"
"Yup. Small world eh?"
At that Pol thought for a moment; "Used to think that till Sarya had shown up. Showed us all of our Elvhen in this Tamriel. The feeling I felt knowing our people do prosper and thrive somewhere in the world. It made me smile."
"They could be lying about the whole Elven kingdoms you know." Gin dryly countered.
"Still a ray of joy and sunshine I see."
XxX ~ xx ~ XxX
The dalish woman hissed, tears gathering at the corner of her eyes. The deep gashes in her leg burned, chunks of her flesh had been carved away by the rending claws of one of those wolf beasts. She laid on a bedroll along with multiple other injured elves; she just wanted the pain to end.
A gentle hand pressed against her forehead, and she was greeted by the tattoo-less face of a dark skinned elven mage, wearing grey and blue, the colors of the Wardens. "Shhhh, it's all gonna be okay"
The woman gasped, feeling the pain wash away before the magic flooding her being. Gentle mystical energies pouring forth over the leg wound, slowly closing it. She could finally breathe again, her head slumped against the rolled rag pillow as her chest rose and fell rhythmically.
"Ma serannas..." She muttered as she closed her eyes, finally letting the world disappear for a time.
Neria sighed to herself. She was no Wynne but she liked to believe her skills regarding healing were still highly advanced, despite the praise of her teachers; it was a very different thing to be treating people that were actually suffering from grievous injuries. She checked the closing wound on the dalish's leg, hmm, an ugly scar would remain. The werewolf's claws had cut deep; restoring the lost flesh would take months of magical treatment if she wanted to be back in fighting condition.
"Everything okay here?" Brianna asked; walking towards her with a bowl filled with elfroot poultice.
"She'll need elfroot around the leg area"
"On it" Brianna nodded before gently applying the poultice on the scarred flesh.
"Very nice work" A male voice behind them spoke, "I'm glad to see the Circle has not forgotten the merits of healing magic"
Both ladies turn in time to see an elven man with long auburn hair, wearing a mix of leathers over a mage's robe knelt down beside them; "I see you two were able to get out of Kinloch Hold."
Neria and Brianna shared a look before peering back to the man; "You were a circle mage?" Amell asked as she kept working.
"Indeed, my name is Aneirin. Fled the circle ages ago and was found by Keeper Zathrian and made one of the Orava clan. Never looked back."
"Well I for one am happy for you, just hope it wasn't as bad compared to how we got away from that hellhole." Neria smacked his friend's arm for her blunt comment. "It was."
The elven man chuckled; "Not all of us thought of it as such. But I was much like yourself Miss-"
"Brianna Amell, this is Neria Surana."
"Hmm, then you two must have been brought in after I escaped."
It was that that clicked something in Neria's head as she thought for a moment; "Aneirin... I think I've heard your name before but... Oh! Wynne had talked about someone named Aneirin!"
"So she still remembers; I used to be her apprentice." Emotion bled into the elven man's voice as memories came to him.
Brianna thumbed towards her longtime friend; "So was too she before Irving took over her training."
"Truly? My" He smiled good naturedly, "You must be the exceptional mage"
"Ugh" The Amell rolled her eyes, "Try telling her that, she has very little self-confidence"
Neria's eyes dryly bore into her friend's before looking back at Aneirin. "Aren't friends just wonderful?"
The dalish mage let out a heartfelt laugh, "You may rile each other up... Okay, just her riles you up I can tell" Brianna beamed while the younger elf sulked. "But I can see you two are good friends. I wish I could have had companionship like you two have back in the Circle"
"You were pretty unhappy there from what I heard" Neria said in sympathy.
"That's being polite" Aneirin sighed, "I was miserable. And believe you me; Wynne did not make things easier. By far the most strict and harsh teacher I've ever had"
"Huh" Brianna muttered in disbelief, "That... really doesn't sound like Wynne"
A brow rose from Aneirin as Neria took over; "When I became her apprentice she had become patient, taught me at my pace, she's kind and understanding." The young elf's ears dipped as she had recalled what her former mentor had taught her. "She blamed herself for what happened with you. She was terrified the Templars might have killed you. Teacher wanted to apologize for how she had treated you." Worry gnarled in her gut; "She... She was at Ostagar..."
Aneirin's eyes grew but he steadied himself quickly; "I think we both know how stubborn Wynne can be. She would have found a way to escape that place." The older elf took a seat beside Neria to help; "But I am glad to hear our teacher has grown from her former self and into a better person. Despite her harshness I kept some of what she taught me to heart." He gave a gentle pat to the young elven girl; "When you do see her again, tell her I am fine and found my place among our people."
Neria gave a nod while Brianna had finished with some Elfroot poultice on several bad wounds to some injured; "She's probably driving Petra and the children up the wall with Chantry nonsense." Amell jested trying to better the mood of her friend.
She garnered an eye roll with a faint snort from her friend.
XxX ~ xx ~ XxX
Sten's eyes took in every inch of the Dalish camp and its perimeter. Nothing escaped the Qunari's vigil while Sofie and Leli were close at his side; "How is it looking big guy?" He grunted at the lack of formality from the Nordic woman.
"There are many eyes focused around the camp. And not from the elves currently residing within it."
The now former lay-sister tapped her chin in thought; "I think that Mithra huntress said a few other Dalish clans roamed around other parts of the forest."
"Keeping an eye out for the wolves, and us." Sofie murmured crossing her arms. "See what we do, prove we're honorable to them."
"The dalish show great diligence" The qunari stated in approval, "A clear roll in their clan. The same cannot be said for the rest of these lands"
Sofie exchanged a curious look with Leliana, "What do you mean?"
"No one has a place" Sten replied with annoyance and exasperation. "Farmers want to be merchants, merchants want to be nobles. Their roles flow like an unfocused river that will only lead to the sea where they will be lost amidst the waves"
The muscular woman turned again back to Leliana for clarification, "Qunari culture functions by assigning specific roles upon birth" She explained, "The concept of choosing a different path is... unknown to them"
"We do have choice in the Qun" Sten disagreed. "We can either embrace our role, or be cast away like honorless scum"
"Yikes" Sofie winced. The more she heard about the Qun the less she liked as much as the Chantry. There were merits to holding such an orderly society, from what she heard the Qun was very much the most effective and powerful kingdom in all of Thedas. They had to be to have fought all their nations to a stand-still. But to rob away one's choice, to cast away individuality like that... The concept was so alien and wrong to her. "So... your role is in the military then"
"It is"
"Then, why are you still here?" That was what Sofie did not understand. "Aren't you supposed to return to your superiors?"
"I cannot return" He stated matter of factly.
Leliana's eyes widened briefly, "Oh..." She searched through her knowledge of qunari culture that might indicate what circumstances prevented Sten from returning to his people.
"Hmm" The nord hummed to herself before giving the large humanoid a wide grin, "Well, you can stay with us"
"...Thank you" There was a surprising amount of emotion in his voice. As much as the stoic man could muster, but that alone was an impressive display from someone like him.
She patted the man on his shoulder pad in a display of companionship, before giving Leliana a mirth filled gaze. "Now, I heard some dalish muttering about a young hunter pining for another but he's too shy to ask her hand. Wanna play matchmaker?"
Leliana's smile could have split her face open, her hands joined closed as she happily clapped.
Sten grunted, though the nord was a strong warrior that provided tolerable company, though some of her antics was hard to endure.
XxX ~ xx ~ XxX
The hammer fell upon the sword in an almost musical rhythm, tempering the blade with extreme precision and dedication in every blow.
Varathorn ran a hand over his long grey locks, looking on impressed at Sarya's elven mother's work. "I must say, your daughter gushed about your skills with such candor I thought it was tall tales... Seeing you work now, I'm starting to think she was underselling them"
The master smith of the Sabrae also had to agree looking over a dagger she had sharpened. "I heard of dwarves who could make an edge so deadly." Ilen muttered before gazing at the working Miara; "You truly are a master of smithing."
"I'd like to agree but as an old friend of mine once told me. 'You never stop learning'. Took me well over a century to get where I am, but since coming to Thedas I know there is so more for me to learn."
Master Wade had explained to her of the countless unique materials and designs from Thedas. The diverse ranges of smithing from the Dwarves, Elves, Qunari, and Humans here. Her heart couldn't stop beating so wildly!
She glanced over to Varathorn; "I have to say that ore and strange wood you have is quite unique. Nothing like it in Tamriel."
A hearty chuckle came from the aged smith as he patted some of the Veridium ore and Ironbark on a table; "Thank your daughter. With these can make proper armor and weapons along with other items for the clan."
"Hmm..." Miara thought for a moment as she kept working; "As a show of good faith to the Dalish I can give you some elven Tamriel armor and weapons schematics if you like?"
"Truly?" The smiths' eyes shined with interest. "We'd be honored"
"Of course, they'd have to be made with the materials you have here rather than Tamriel ones" Miara shrugged, "Don't think you have Moonstone here to make proper altmer armor. Perhaps bosmer schematics would help you more..." She mused as she run a hand over her chin.
"We can make the necessary adjustments once we see how the weapons and armor handle" Ilen reassured her. "From what Sarya told us, many types of elven gear require this material you named, 'moonstone'. It would not be the same, but it'd lift the spirits here to see us wielding gear designed by our far off shored cousins"
"In return" Varathorn continued, "Let us gift you some our valued ironbark. I believe a magnificent bow can be made with it in your hands"
Miara's eyes shined with glee at the prospect of working with another material. Making bows out of pure metal was always a difficult process; no one had any use for a bow too heavy to lift, even if the strongest material always provided the best drawing strength to release an arrow. The ration of wood and metal in Tamrielic bows was more often than not balanced more on the bow's favor, unless the material was magic enough. But the prospect of this ironbark intrigued her, if the name was any indication she could make a bow as light as wood and as solid as metal.
But her daydreaming had to come to an end, as she felt Serana's hand upon her shoulder. "Yeah, keep your small clothes dry for the moment. There is something you could help with here" And proceeded to drag her away.
"But, smithing!" The dunmer cried out like a petulant child.
The two very much amused old smiths waved her off. "We'll continue our deal later then"
Having accepted that her playtime was done for now, Miara huffed and grumpily looked at her lover. "What is it?"
"I was thinking we could use your magic to heal someone" Serana said as she guided her through the camp. "See if your Ada lineage can overcome this"
The dunmer let out a soft breath through her nose. "You know I can't cure lycanthropy unless I erase the source of the curse"
Plenty of dalish had been bitten by the werewolf onslaught. Some, feeling the curse quickly growing in strength, had taken to the woods to be as far away from the clan as possible. While many others were still on the brink of turning. It had been a very difficult choice for the clans, but there was little they could do save killing their own kin to prevent them from becoming more of the beasts.
A measure which they had been forced to take, before they had arrived...
Serana, powerful hexer that she was, went to the rest of the afflicted and placed them into a deep slumber that could last for days. That removed the risk of more lycans emerging from the dalish's own ranks for now. But finding a cure, that was another challenge altogether.
"Not talking about the lycanthropy" Serana said, much to the dragonborn's surprise. "There is an elf here, he has the Blight"
Surprise shone from Miara's eyes as her lover explained what Marethari had told her what happened just before the lycan attacks. Apparently two warriors of the Sabrae clan, Theron and Tamlen had delved into an elven ruin with Sarya. This resulted in Theron being tainted by the Blight, and Tamlen completely vanishing.
The Dunmer went into a near panic at the thought of her daughter possibly being tainted by that corruption. Serana had been the same till the elderly woman stated Sarya was clear of the Taint. Yet a thought occurred to both ladies, 'could their children even be tainted?' With their unique blood they possibly could be immune like Miara is. But it wasn't a theory they felt like testing anytime soon.
Nearing one of the larger tents, the duo took quickly the sight of the young Theron lying on wolf furs. What they saw disturbed them both, as they could see some parts of his natural dark skin going pale. Numerous veins visible and black. Though unconscious, he was not in a peaceful slumber as he grunted in pain.
Sitting beside him were the firsts of Marethari and Zathrian. They had met Lanaya with her teacher, but this was first meeting with Merrill. The poor dear looked like a complete and utter mess, and they could tell she had not been sleeping much or at all since Theron's was brought back by Sarya.
The tired elven girl took notice of the two. "Oh, Lanaya said we had guests. Aneth ara." She blinked a few times as she looked at Miara; "I thought Sarya was keeping the ward up?"
A sigh came from Zathrian's first; "These two are Sarya's mothers, remember I told you? She's finally sleeping after they and the Wardens showed up. Which what you should be doing."
"Not until Theron is okay." Merrill shook head stubbornly.
Once more a sigh escaped Lanaya's lips before peering up to Miara and Serana; "And this is what we have been dealing with. Neither Keeper Zathrian nor Keeper Marethari have been able to convince Merrill to care for herself properly. She has barely eaten or slept."
Miara approached the young man, kneeling in front of Merrill as she began to inspect him. "How long has he been like this?"
"Five days" Lanaya explained. So it had been the same time the werewolves attacked, what a terrible timing. "Keeper Zathrian has done all he could to stave off the Blight but..."
Merrill's eyes were downcast, heartbroken and inconsolable. She held his hand tightly, uncaring about that it was Tainted.
"Let me try" It's been a long time since she called in her divinity like this, much less ask for another god's blessing to help. But she was an Agent of Mara; the lady of benevolence had blessed her healing magic long ago. She joined her hands together and offered a soft prayer. "Oh Mara, mistress of grace. Let this spell be warm like hearth of home, yet purge the evil like righteous flames"
Golden magic emanated from her hands, she hovered her hands just above the boy and channeled the energies throughout Theron's body. He looked in less pain, like he could breathe easier now. The black veins in his neck retreated ever so slightly.
Miara frowned. The spell might have been able to ease his symptoms, but it hadn't cleansed his body like she would have wanted. No, it looked like direct interference from a higher god might be necessary. Hmm, perhaps if she channeled Dawnbreaker... No, bad idea. The most likely scenario would be the young man being reduced to ashes.
Theron stirred groaning as his eyes slowly opened. His gaze slowly focused and looked at Merrill's tearful face smiling at him, "Merrill..." His voice was weak and dry, he hadn't spoken in days.
"I'm here" She whispered.
"W-What happened?"
"The Eluvian you found in the ruins" It was Lanaya who answered. "Somehow it... gave you the Blight"
His eyes widened in despair, he shot up with a start, only to cough violently into his hand. Merrill gently used her magic to alleviate the pain.
"The Blight?" He muttered in disbelief. "But... Tamlen how is he?"
Merrill bit her lip, eyes shimmering as more tears gathered. "We don't know, Sarya said he disappeared when she found you"
A multitude of tumultuous flashed before his eyes. Grief, shock, anger, regret, and finally guilt. "I... I should have said something, gone back to the camp when we had the chance. But..."
"You're alive young man" Miara said comfortingly. "That's what matters"
The young elf peered at the grey skinned mer and then at the hooded tall woman standing at the side. "You must Sarya's mothers"
"Hope my daughter wasn't too difficult"
"She's a pain in the ass..."
"Theron!" Merrill admonished him.
To their surprise, Miara just laughed. "Oh she can be"
Theron looked at his hands, then at the rest of his body. He took notice how his skin was paling, how the black veins throbbed underneath his skin. He felt weak, like someone had slowly drained his blood and filled it with poison.
"I'm..." He softly spoke in quiet anguish. "I'm going to die"
Merrill sobbed, tears trailing down her cheeks as she buried her face in his neck.
"No" Marethari's matronly voice was heard, and she entered the large tent followed by Marcus and Alistair. "Not if we have something to say about it"
"Is this him? Maker" Alistair shook his head in grimace. "You've been doing miracles keeping the Blight from consuming him for so long"
"You are a Warden" The tainted elf muttered, looking at the griffon carved in his chest plate, so overwhelmed he was at everything going on that he choose to let go of the fact that there were multiple humans in the camp.
"And we might be able to save your life" The senior Warden said. "But you know what this means" He spoke to the Keeper.
"Theron is our finest warrior" She replied, her voice firm, but there were hints of regret and resignation in it. "He will serve you well"
"Wait" Lanaya looked in between them in confusion, a sentiment shared by Theron and Merrill. "What are you talking about?"
"We can save his life" Marcus spoke, "But for that, he must become a Warden and aid us in our quest to stop the Blight"
Theron's eyes slowly rose; "The Blight..." His voice a whisper he turned to Lanaya who nodded and summarized what Sarya had told them after Ostagar. The Dalish warrior glared at the two human men; "So either die or the join the Wardens and leave my people."
"Well," Alistair shrugged as he rubbed the back of his head; "The Blight threatens us all, unless we do something your people will perish as well. Not just your clan here, but all elves who reside in Ferelden."
While true, Theron felt he really didn't have much of choice at all. He looked to the Keeper; "This is the only way?"
Marethari gravely nodded her head; "If you do not do this, you will either die or become a ghoul, please don't force our clan to put down one of our own... I know what they ask is a lot, but stopping the Darkspawn takes precedence. The Grey Wardens' cause is noble, you must follow in the footsteps of Garahel, and show Thedas that the dalish are as much part of these lands as the humans are"
A curse and grumble in elvish came from the young man before turning to Merrill. Tears flowed from her eyes as her body shook. Seeing her in such a horrid state, the prospect of his own death paining her so much… he knew what he had to do. His gaze went back to Marcus and Alistair; "I accept…"
The young Cousland gave nod before shifting to the former Templar; "Go get Brianna."
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It was a stroke of luck their blood pendants given to them by Duncan did gave Bri enough to create the Joining potion. The process took some time, but the beautiful brunette mage came into the tent where Theron remained with the others followed by a concerned Neria.
She gave the cup over to Alistair; "It's ready." Amell sighed before she knelt down to the Dalish warrior; "I won't lie to you. You have a fifty/fifty chance this will kill you." She looked Theron in the eyes who stared back.
"Against the one hundred percent chance that the Taint kills me?" The elf snorted. "Yeah, I think I'll take my chances with this"
"You got a dry wit, I like that" Alistair smirked, holding the cup filled with the blood on his hand as he knelt before Theron. "Keep it close to you, only way you won't go insane in this line of work"
Theron slowly grasped the cup in his hand, and stared at the putrid vile thing that was already flowing through his vein. It had to be a joke from the Creators that his salvation laid in the very thing that was killing him.
If he was going to die, then he wouldn't leave this world a coward. He had held his tongue far too long, no more.
"Merrill" He looked into those big beautiful green eyes of hers. "I want you to know, you're the most important thing in my life"
Her lips parted in surprise, a soft blush adorning her tear stricken cheeks as she held a hand over her mouth.
"Just seeing you every day was... it made me feel that everything would be alright" He let out a soft laugh, bearing his soul to the woman he loved felt like nothing in the world. It was liberating, he could feel his spirit soar. "Being with you, hearing you laugh, those are the things I treasure the most... If you'd let me, I would have spent my entire life at your side, ma vhenan"
"Theron..." She muttered, unable to find the words to properly return his feelings.
The tent was very silent, respecting the open confession the young warrior had made to his beloved. Marcus thought back to Iona and Amethyne, swearing he would return to them.
Miara and Serana joined hands in remembrance when their feelings for one another had been made clear long ago. They knew that just like them, neither Merrill nor Theron would ever forget this moment.
While Marethari smiled gently to herself. It was about time...
The elven warrior looked at the cup once more; he thanked his ancestors, the gods, and prayed to the spirits of his parents, hoping he would make them proud.
He drew the blood to his lips.
"From this moment forth, Theron, you are a Grey Warden"
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Hope you guys like it!