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Blood Promise	By : Hikari86 Category: +A through F > Dragon Age (all) > Dragon Age (all) Views: 4556 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 0
Disclaimer: Bioware owns everything Dragon Age. I claim no ownership and make no money/profit.

Chapter List
- 12
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Dare

It was dark in the mansion, and eerily quiet. Jordan slowly made her way through the cold kitchen, her eyes darting everywhere as she took in the still dirty and cluttered area. Fenris had obviously not cleaned up in here yet, nor had he done so to the large atrium that served as the mansion entrance. Jordan stood in the doorway, looking around, seeing nothing that suggested someone lived here. Maybe that's how Fenris liked it, or maybe he had moved on, not able to stay in one place for very long. He had stated he was more used to moving on, especially when he knew hunters were after him.
As she stepped out of the doorway and into the atrium, it was only the slight gleam that caught her eye. It was the twinkle when soft light shined on metal. Jordan barely had time to grab Ripper and place it in front of her to stop the giant blade from cutting off her head. The dagger's serrated tip being her saving grace.
Fenris stared at her from the other end of the sword, his big, dark green eyes hard and almost murderous. Jordan matched his gaze, not willing to be the first to relent with either eyes or blades. They stayed locked like this for a few moments before Fenris finally lowered his sword, but kept his eyes fixed on hers.
“Do you have a death wish?” he asked, his deep voice slightly strained.
“Some people would say so.” Jordan, just as he did, relaxed, but kept her eyes firm. “Did I disturb you? If I did, then I'm sorry for the lateness of my visit.”
He then completely relaxed. “It's not really the time. Just the fact that you decided to come into my house unannounced.”
“Right. I guess I can see why you thought I was a threat there. I apologize.” Jordan replaced Ripper as Fenris turned his back on her. He then began making his way through the atrium and up one side of the double staircase. Jordan followed right behind him.
The only thing that consisted of the second floor were three bedrooms placed right next to each other. The two on the outside were small, while the one in the middle was large, no doubt having served as the master bedroom. It was here, as Jordan walked through the doorway, that she discovered this was where Fenris had decided to call home. The roof still had the giant hole, and for a moment, Jordan wondered why he hadn't tried to patch it up. But then she realized that hole could actually prove as a perfect escape route if he found himself trapped. She wouldn't doubt if he had actually gone through the hole to see what laid out before him, and already had several escape plans. He could take many ways, either jumping across roofs, or leaping down to one of the many gardens laid in between the noble houses. Jordan also noticed the fireplace, which had a small, dying fire, and a large pile of books next to it. A couch had been placed in front of it. One that Fenris had dragged up the stairs. It was one of the more intact ones, broken in the middle with most of its stuffing falling out on the side, but still good enough to sleep on. There was also a worn path in the dirt in front of the fireplace. Fenris now stood before it, staring into the dying embers. A bottle was in his hand, one Jordan hadn't seen him grab.
“What do you want, Hawke?” he asked without looking at her.
“Must I need something in order to come see you?” His eyes found hers in the dull light, looking questioning at her. “I suppose it's weird, huh?” Jordan smiled. “Are you not in the mood for company? I just wanted to talk.”
This actually got a smile from him. The first one Jordan had ever seen. “Your company is welcome, but I do have to ask... why are you here so late?”
“I was already in the neighborhood,” Jordan said as she sat on the more cushioned portion of the couch. “I figured I had waited long enough to come see you. Sorry. But I have been a little busy of late. No thanks to Aveline. I could ask you why you're not trying to push me out, though.”
“I wasn't asleep. I've just been... thinking.”
“You're waiting for those hunters to come bursting through your doors.”
“Or for Danarius to finally show his face, but as the days go by, and nothing happens, I grow more... anxious.” Fenris looked down at the bottle he was holding and took a large swig from it. In the dying fire, Jordan could see the bottle was green and the contents nearly depleted.
“What is that?” Jordan asked, curious.
“Agreggio Pavali,” he answered. “I found six bottles in the cellar.”
“There was a cellar?”
“You didn't look as thoroughly as you thought. Otherwise, you could have probably made a nice fortune from them.” His eyes stared into the empty glass, looking deeply in. “Danarius used to have me pour this for his guests.”
“You were a servant? I thought you said you were his slave?”
“A slave can be many things. Worker, servant, bodyguard. I was all those things and more. I was a tool, something he used to show off his power and intimidate both his enemies and allies.”
“I can certainly see the meaning behind it,” Jordan said as she studied Fenris up and down. “I mean, look at you. Being an elf, I'm sure no one would think you could handle a greatsword like you do. Then the markings... They're... very beautiful in a way.”
Fenris turned fully around to face her. “I've actually never heard anyone say that. Most of the time my appearance frightens people. Which I actually kind of like.”
“You like being alone, don't you?”
“It's easier.” Fenris then drank down the last of the Agreggio before taking the bottle and hurtling it towards the wall. A shriek then sounded, catching Jordan off guard. She turned toward the doorway, seeing standing in the frame, right next to where the bottle had hit, was both Bethany and Anders.
Fenris growled when he saw the two mages. He went to grab his sword, which was propped up next to the fireplace, but Jordan quickly got to her feet and placed herself directly in the middle. “Hold on, what are you two doing here?” she asked them. “Anders, I thought I asked you to take Bethany home.”
“I tried...” Anders protested.
“Did you really think I was going to go?” Bethany asked, a hardness in her voice. “Especially after I realized where you were going?”
“I can take care of myself,” said Jordan. “Don't start acting like Mother.”
“Maybe if you would actually take some caution for once, then I wouldn't have to.”
“Why is my home suddenly being infested with their kind?” Fenris asked, breaking the two sisters out of their argument.
“Our kind?” said Anders, a little heated.
“Don't mind him,” said Jordan. “He's not that fond of mages. And be careful about how you talk about my sister, Fenris,” she stated to him.
“Perfect,” Anders groaned.
“Your sister is one thing,” Fenris said, placing back down his sword. “But the other mage...”
“Was there something you wanted to say directly to me?” Anders took himself fully into the room, his eyes burning. Jordan had to quickly place her hands on his chest to keep him from going any further, and to also make sure his brown eyes weren't turning blue.
“Relax,” she said. “Both of you.” Jordan looked to both Anders and Fenris, making sure neither of them were about ready to pounce on each other. How did this happen? I have a mage hater and a rebel mage in the same room together. I am not prepared for this. “Now, Anders,” Jordan said fully facing back to him. “This here is Fenris. I know he comes on a little strong at first, but he has offered to help me with the expedition too. So I'm going to need the two of you to get along.”
“You're expecting me to get along with him?” Anders asked, looking at Jordan as if she were mad.
“Yes. And, Fenris,” Jordan said, facing back to the elf. “You said you would already work with mages. Anders here is no different from Bethany.” Sort of.
Fenris looked away, not happy. His demeanor had drastically changed from when it was just him and Jordan talking. “I know that's what I said, but that doesn't mean I have to like it.”
“No, but you can at least be civil.” Jordan then backed away from Anders, taking her hands off his chest which she realized had been there the whole time. “Can you both be civil for me? Please?”
“I will try,” said Anders. “But only if he does.”
Jordan turned to Fenris, but he only grunted. She took it to be the best answer she would get from him. “Good. Now that everything is settled, Bethany, Anders... do you think-”
“We're not going anywhere,” Anders interrupted.
“And why not?”
“I'm not leaving you alone with him.”
“That's not very civil, Anders,” Jordan frowned.
“I know. I'm just...”
Worried? Aw. “Thanks, but I'll be fine,” Jordan sighed.
Anders sighed as well as he stared at her. Had she worried him? Jordan wasn't necessarily sure how to read Anders just yet. It was more of the mystery that intrigued her. If anything, he might have tried to take Bethany home like she had asked, but when Bethany refused, only went with her to make sure nothing happened to her.
“I'm just wondering what you need to do with him so late at night. And—Hey! What are you doing?” Turning back to Fenris, Jordan saw that he had taken one of the books from the pile and had thrown it on the fire to get it back up again.
“Not every fire requires magic to keep it burning,” Fenris replied as he pushed the book further in.
“But that was a book on magic!” Anders skirted his way past Jordan and to the pile of books by the fireplace. He picked up the one on top and stared at the cover. “Do you know what these are?”
“Yeah, I do,” Fenris heaved. “They're books on blood magic. They're part of my old master's collection.”
“They're not all about blood magic. Some of them are old. Very old. How could you think to use these as firewood?”
“Because that's the only purpose I have for them.” Fenris then grabbed another book and threw it on the fire.
“Old books on magic?” Jordan asked. “Don't tell me you found those in the cellar as well?”
“I did. There's a whole library down there.”
“Damn it,” Jordan breathed. “If only I had found the cellar entrance. Then maybe I wouldn't need this expedition.”
“If you think you could sell these books, think again,” said Anders, the book in his hand open as he flipped through it.
“Why?”
“No one would buy them. Their Tevinter. Mages who could benefit from these spells you wouldn't want selling to.”
“But you said not all of them are about blood magic.” Anders then gazed over at her, and she understood. “You want them, don't you?”
“They might help me...”
“Help you with what, mage?” Fenris growled.
“With his research,” Jordan answered before Anders could. “He's conducting some research that if successful could be very beneficial. Some of the spells in those books might help.”
“What is he doing that would be so beneficial?” Fenris asked, not sounding that interested.
“Trying to figure out a way to heal a severed spine.” This caught Bethany's attention, who had made her way to Jordan's side. Fenris, however, didn't seem all that impressed.
“Impossible,” he scoffed. “Magic can do no such thing and it never will.”
“You don't know that,” Anders said looking up from the book. “I've had some positive results.”
“Magic doesn't benefit anyone,” Fenris said, looking into the now blazing fire. “It spoils everything it touches.”
Anders was about ready to protest, Jordan getting ready to intervene, but it was actually Bethany who spoke up first. “I don't disagree with you, Fenris,” she said, surprising everyone. “But I can't really say it's not beneficial to some people. But I think we should move on to a different subject.” The only sound for awhile was that of the crackling fire, and the occasional turn of a page as Anders looked through a second book. Fenris kept his eyes on the fire, while Jordan and Bethany stood side-by-side watching the two men do what they could to keep from seeing one another.
“What are you doing tomorrow?” Bethany finally asked Jordan, breaking the silence.
“I don't have anything planned. Not unless Aveline has more of that boring honest work for me. Bleh.”
“Well I know something we could do. It's what we've been putting off for some time now.”
“What...? Oh...” Jordan frowned at her sister. “I would prefer not.”
“Jordan.”
Jordan groaned, knowing Bethany was right. It was something they needed to do, and they—or really she—had been putting it off for far too long. Jordan wasn't exactly sure why, either. She had made a promise, and all promises she made she kept. But this one she kept putting off, trying to forget, but always being reminded by something.
“We should go in the next day or so,” said Bethany. “There's nothing going on at the moment, so there's no excuse. Besides, it's best to just get it over with.”
“Wait, what are you two talking about?” Anders asked, looking up from his book. “Go where?”
“Sundermount,” said Jordan. “To go and find a Dalish clan and give them a special amulet.”
Anders looked at her funny.
“What's so special about the amulet?” It was Fenris who posed the question.
“Oh, that's right... neither of you know the story of how Bethany and I escaped the Blight,” Jordan breathed. She glanced at both of them, wondering how they would take it. Anders may understand, but she wasn't so sure about Fenris. “If you didn't know, Fenris, Bethany and I are Ferelden refugees. We came from a small village called Lothering. Do you know about the Blight that happened in Ferelden?”
“Of course I know about it,” Fenris said turning from the fire to fully face her.
“Well, Lothering was built right next to a swamp known as the Korcari Wilds. The darkspawn originated there, and we were trying to leave Lothering before they got there, but it was too late. The darkspawn destroyed everything, and they forced us to run into the Wilds.”
“You seriously thought the Wilds would be safe?” said Anders, trying to take in what Jordan was telling them.
“I knew the Wilds were dangerous, but at that moment it was either go through them or go straight to the heart of the horde! I choice the lesser of two evils, considering going right to the horde meant certain death. Plus there was the fact Bethany, Carver, and I used to play in the Wilds when we were younger. We knew them, and I was confident we could make it through and past the horde.”
“But it didn't work out as planned,” Bethany whispered.
“No.” Jordan hung her head. “We lost Carver, and Aveline's husband, Wesley. We became surrounded by darkspawn. Tried to fight them off, but it was no use. That's when she came and... rescued us.”
“She?” both Anders and Fenris said at the same time.
This was where Jordan wondered if she would lose them. “Do the two of you know the legend of the Witch of the Wilds?”
Anders let out a deep sigh and placed his hand on his face. Fenris kept his scowl as he stared at Jordan. “Are you telling us you were saved by Flemeth?” Fenris asked.
“So you do know about her?”
“It's one of the few Ferelden tales you hear in Tevinter. Flemeth, the Witch of the Korcari Wilds in Ferelden is actually a favorite tale amongst the magisters.”
“Hm, interesting. So then I'm sure you can guess what happened next.”
“Don't tell me you made a deal with her that involves an amulet?” said Anders.
“The deal was I take the amulet to a clan of Dalish elves at Sundermount. In exchange, she would lead us out of the Wilds. You can look at me like that all you want, I did it to protect my family, and to get them to safety.” Jordan crossed her arms and matched both their glares. At least she noticed they were agreeing on something together.
“This is something we need to do,” said Bethany. “I don't know what the amulet is, as I haven't examined it fully, but I do know it's been... wanting to go.”
Jordan raised her eyebrows to Bethany. “What do you mean?”
“You keep the amulet hidden in the floor board. I... I don't know.” Bethany stared at the floor. “I've just been having nightmares.”
Nightmares? Great. Now Jordan had no choice. She could no longer put off going to Sundermount. If the amulet was giving Bethany nightmares, then she needed to deal with it quickly. “We'll start getting ready to go in the morning, then.”
“If you're going to Sundermount, then I'm coming too,” said Anders. “I don't know what you got yourselves into, but if it involves a Witch of the Wilds, I want to be there to make sure nothing bad happens.”
“Your company would be nice,” Jordan smiled. “Fenris, would you like to join us? Get out of the mansion?”
Fenris scolded, probably not liking the idea of traveling with mages, but then he nodded. “I'll be there. But only because I still owe you, and this can be a way to start paying it back.”
“We should bring Aveline, too,” Bethany put in. “You know she'll want to come.”
“And you know Varric's not gonna want to be left out,” Jordan chuckled. “That dwarf. You know what, might as well ask Isabela to come along as well. She may actually be heartbroken to hear the whole group went to Sundermount without her.”
“It'll be a full party, then. So do you think we should go ahead and start for home now? We can sleep in, but we're still going to need to get some work done tomorrow in order to prepare for the trip.”
“Yeah, you're right,” Jordan nodded. Sundermount was at least a day's walking distance, and another day coming back. One had to go across the Wounded Coast in order to get there, which meant they needed to be ready with food, camping, and defending themselves from bandits. “We'll go, but do you think you and Anders could wait outside for a moment?”
Neither of the two mages looked as if they wanted to leave Jordan alone with Fenris, but eventually they relented and left the room. Anders took the two books he had been skimming through, not even asking if he could have them. Fenris didn't seem to care, however, or he didn't notice as he had turned back to the fire.
“Was there something else you wanted, Hawke?” he asked once the two mages were gone.
Jordan stared at him for a moment, seeing how tense he was. He had been like that when she had first came to him that night, but as they talked, she noticed him relaxing. It wasn't until Anders and Bethany showed that he became rigid again. “I just wanted to apologize for that. I told them to go home before I came here, but I guess I should've known better.”
“You should know better,” Fenris said looking back at her. “They're mages.”
“Right. I've noticed. Just... listen for a moment. I don't really know that much about your past, but I can tell you like to keep people at a distance. Which is fine, but just know that we are not your enemy. I am not your enemy. We can be friends, but you need to get that chip off your shoulder.”
Fenris stared fixed on her for awhile, making Jordan a little nervous. “I am not your enemy, either,” he finally said. “And... I'm sorry, but some things cannot be changed over night. I will do what I can to tolerate your sister and friend, but I still believe you are making a mistake allowing them to live outside the Circle. You don't know what I've seen in Tevinter. What mages would really do if they were allowed their freedom.”
Jordan sighed, beginning to feel the weariness of the night crash on her. Fenris wasn't helping, either. She figured it was no use, or at least not right now. “Do I at least have your word you won't go running to the templars?”
“I shouldn't give you my word, but I will.” Fenris took another book from the pile and threw it in the fire.
Jordan felt relieved, although she still wasn't sure she could trust him completely. Time would have to tell with that. But at least she knew with him going with her to Sundermount, he couldn't go to the templars while they were away. Slowly she began making her way out of the room, neither one of them saying anything to the other.
***
“Alright, Isabela, I believe it's your turn,” Jordan said as she rubbed her hands together. “The letter is M, and the category is... cities!”
“Oh, that's easy,” Isabela waved off. “Let's see... there's Markham, Montsimmard, Marothius, Minrathous, and... uh... Oh! The Merdaine.”
“The Merdaines don't count!” Jordan blurted. “That's a region, not a city.”
“It has a city in it.”
“Not one that begins with M.” Jordan smirked over at Isabela. “I'll give you one more chance.”
“M's not as easy as I thought it would be, but... Ah, I got it! Montfort!”
“Yep, that's five. You win, Isabela. Now it's your turn to choose a letter and category. And let's see, who is your victim... Oh, sorry, Bethany, but that would be you.”
Bethany stuck out her tongue. “I'm horrible at these kind of games.”
“Gotta do something while we pass the time walking to Sundermount, right? Go ahead, Isabela.”
“But I'm bored of this game,” Isabela sighed. “Let's play something more fun, like Truth or Dare! Bethany... truth or dare?”
Seeing the evil look in Isabela's eyes, Bethany wasn't so sure she would like this game either. “Uh, I don't know. How about... truth?”
“Ooh, I like truth. Let me think here... how about you tell us the truth about when you first laid with a man.”
“Ha!” Jordan laughed.
“Isabela! Do you really think that's appropriate?” Aveline shouted.
“What?” Isabela shrugged. “She picked truth.”
“I, uh...” Bethany looked down at the ground as her checks became red.
“Are you blushing?” said Isabela, seeing Bethany's reaction. “You're a virgin, aren't you? Oh, how cute!”
“I think she's cute with that color in her checks,” Varric stated.
“Oh, you poor girl. Jordan, you're holding out on her. You need to take her to the Blooming Rose, get her a good one and let them at it. I'll even pay!”
“Ah no,” Jordan said shaking her head. “My baby sister is staying a virgin until I can find the right man for her who can give me decent nieces and nephews. Although I'm still trying to figure out how to do that while still keeping her pure. I'm thinking a cup and funnel.”
“You're not my keeper, Sister,” Bethany said, glaring over at Jordan. “Eventually I'll find someone who I'll want to be with.”
“Only with my approval.”
“And if I want to go to the Blooming Rose with Isabela one day, then I will!”
“Over my dead body!”
“Ladies, please!” Varric soothed, calming the situation. “There's no need to fight over this.”
“No, there really isn't,” Aveline backed. “This was the reason why we decided not to play Truth or Dare in the first place.” She glared over at Isabela who only smiled sheepishly at her.
“Alright, I'll leave Bethany alone. But who will be my victim this time?” Isabela looked around their little group. “Ah, Fenris, Anders. You two have been awful quiet. Would either of you like to play?”
“I'm happy just listening,” said Fenris who was in the back. “Someone needs to keep watch while you all act like idiots and make a bunch of noise.”
“You're such a stick-in-the-mud,” Isabela sighed. Although what he was saying was true. They were walking down the Wounded Coast, a dangerous place. Their party, although interesting in nature, may be seen as easy prey due to the fact they weren't paying much attention to the road, and were making a lot of noise with their laughter. None of them seemed to care, really. Except for Fenris and Aveline, who were the only ones that weren't really participating. “Alright, Anders,” Isabela went on, gleaming at the mage. “Truth or dare?”
Anders chuckled a little at the prospect of having to choose one of the two from Isabela. It was already assumed what he might have to reveal if he chose truth. “Dare,” he said reluctantly. The little gleam in her eye told him he probably would have been better off with truth.
“I dare you to kiss Jordan.”
“What?” both he and Jordan said.
“You heard me. And it has to be one on the lips. No check or hand kissing. Or, if you would prefer something else, then you can hug Fenris.” A snort came from Fenris in the back, and Anders just stared at Isabela horrified. This caused Jordan to laugh, seeing his face. Neither option, it seemed, was something he wanted to do.
“Is there a third option?” he asked.
“No, you only get two. Now pick one.”
Anders groaned, and the group stopped to allow him to choose one of his dare options. They all knew he probably wasn't going to choose the second one. Not only because it was Fenris, but the elf probably wouldn't have allowed him to touch him anyway. Jordan had really hoped he would do the one that involved her. It would be nice.
Going over to her, Anders sighed and seemed almost nervous.
“Why so nervous?” Jordan asked. “It's just a kiss.”
“I'm not nervous,” he said, although he clearly wasn't confident. “It's just a silly little game. What's there to be nervous about?”
“If it's just a silly little game, then what are you waiting for?” said Isabela. “Kiss her already!”
Anders grunted from being pushed. Jordan prepared herself by closing her eyes, but she didn't expect what she got. She figured he would probably make it quick, grab her arms, maybe, and press his lips to hers and be done with it. But instead, she got something soft, brushing, tender. It only lasted for a second, but it was enough to make Jordan's heart skip a beat. And to make her want more.
When she opened her eyes, he was still standing in front of her, but instead was looking at Isabela. “Was that good enough?”
“It could have been longer, but Jordan certainly looks blown away. Maybe next time I'll dare you to kiss me.”
“Next time isn't going to happen.”
“You're the one who chose dare. So now it's your turn, Anders. Pick your victim, then have them pick their poison.”
Anders smiled as he stared over at Varric.
“You're welcome, by the way,” Isabela whispered as she passed Jordan.
They continued walking down the Wounded Coast, and the game went on. Many dares were preformed, but not many truths seemed to be revealed. Although Jordan tried her hardest to get the truth out of Varric about Bianca, he would always tell her—and anyone else who asked—a different story. Neither of them they believed to be true. It was a fun way to pass the time to get to Sundermount. But their fun soon had to stop when Fenris shouted at them to be quiet.
“Do neither of you hear that?” he said. “Or maybe I shouldn't be surprised with all the noise you're making.”
“Just tell us what you hear, Fenris,” said Jordan. He pointed up the steep hill on their right, the Waking Sea and a sharp vertical drop being on their left. Jordan noticed a worn path going up the hill and as she began to climb it, started hearing what Fenris probably heard. It was voices, deep voices talking with one that sounded frightened. When she reached the top of the hill, immediately Jordan got down to the ground as she saw in the small valley below Tal-Vashoth. They appeared to be speaking with a dwarf with several human corpses laying around.
“You are not worthy,” said one of the giant horned men.
“I know I'm not worthy, but can you blame me?” the dwarf said, laughing nervously. “I'm a businessman. And what you have is a product everyone wants. Can you not see how much money you would be making?”
“We do not care for such things,” said a second Tal-Vashoth. “And you have harassed us long enough about it.” The ashen-skinned giant went to raise his ax to the dwarf, who began to cower and plea for his life. Jordan made a quick calculation. There were seven of them, including two mages. She could only see three Tal-Vashoth, but there could possibly be more. They were also huge, towering over her, but she figured that with any enemy, big or small, they could be taken down if you knew the right places to hit.
Jordan sprang forward, not caring who yelled at her to stay down. She didn't know who this dwarf was, but she didn't like the thought of the Tal-Vashoth killing him while he was defenseless. She hit the Tal-Vashoth who had raised his ax first, not knocking him over, but making him stumble enough to miss his target. He growled when he turned on Jordan, taking the spear that was on his back and immediately thrusting it at her. The other two Tal-Vashoth, seeing their companion fighting a new foe, also grabbed their weapons, but were soon occupied when both Aveline and Fenris came racing down the hill. Isabela was quick to follow, joining Jordan as she dueled with the one Tal-Vashoth and his spear. Varric, Anders, and Bethany stayed at the top of the hill, firing spells and bolts where they were needed.
Having Isabela by her side proved to be beneficial as Jordan blocked the spear allowing Isabela to cut her twin daggers across the Tal-Vashoth's back. The giant grunted, turning toward Isabela, which then gave Jordan the opportunity to jam Ripper right into his side. She then took Edge and placed it right at the corner of his neck and shoulder, pushing it straight in. The Tal-Vashoth groaned before falling dead to the ground. The other two were also dead, one having been taken out by both Aveline and Fenris, while the third was coated in a thick layer of ice with several bolts sticking out of his body.
Clearing off her daggers, Jordan noticed the dwarf was still cowering on the ground, his arms covering his head. “Out of your element, dwarf?”
“Huh?” The dwarf stopped shaking and slowly stared out from between his arms. He stared up at Jordan, blinking for a moment before fully standing and dusting off his shirt. “Right. I guess you could say that,” he said. “It's the reason why I hired this lot. But as you can see..” He gestured to the human bodies about the area.
“Bodyguards didn't live up to their promise, did they?”
“Can't get a decent blade on discount anymore. You though,” he said rubbing his chin as he studied her. “You're what a man needs—a skilled enthusiast.”
Jordan stared at him funny. “Care to explain what you mean?”
“My manners!” The dwarf shook his head. “The name's Javaris Tintop, merchant and investor. And I've been trying to get my hands on a power the Qunari refuse to give me. It's a power that explodes. No dust, no lyrium, no magic or demons. Just pure explosive power!”
Jordan had to think for a moment to try and figure out what Javaris was talking about. “An explosive power that the Qunari have?”
“Gaatlok,” said Fenris. “An explosive similar to lyrium bombs. But more... destructive.”
“Really?” Jordan said surprised. “And that's what you want to sell?”
“Well yeah,” Javaris said as if it should make perfect sense to her. “Something like that one could make a fortune on. I went to the Arishok first to see if he would sell, but he said I was unworthy. The only ones that were are their outcasts, the Tal-Vashoth. So I said, 'Great, I'll go talk to them.' But as you can see, didn't work out so well. But I do believe I have a way to right all this wrong. With your help.”
“I'm afraid to ask.”
“The Tal-Vashoth are a thorn in the Arishok's side. The Qunari are suppose to kill them on sight, all due to them leaving that weird Qun of theirs, or something. So maybe if we got rid of the Tal-Vashoth for the Arishok, he may be more willing to make a deal. Are you with me, sweetheart?”
“Don't call me sweetheart,” Jordan snorted, the word hitting her in a foul place. “But yeah, I think I know where you're going.”
“Good. So, since you were able to handle these lot pretty nicely, I don't see why you couldn't go and kill the rest of them. I'll even pay you, and give you a decent investment into my explosive business once I get it started.”
“How much of an investment?”
“We can talk about that later. You just have to go and get rid of the Tal-Vashoth, then come and meet me at the docks near the Qunari Compound. Do we have a deal?”
It was an offer Jordan really didn't know she could refuse. It meant more money, and it meant that maybe this trip to Sundermount wasn't going to be for nothing. “You got yourself a deal,” she said shaking the dwarf's hand. “But it might be awhile. There's some business of our own we have to deal with first.”
“Just as long as the Tal-Vashoth are dead,” said Javaris. “Now, if you don't mind, I'll start heading back to Kirkwall. I better make it there before nightfall. Damn ashen giants killing off my guard.” Javaris briskly walked through the group, mumbling to himself.
“Jordan, do you really think this is wise?” Aveline asked her.
“The Tal-Vashoth are a menace to everyone, not just the Qunari,” said Jordan. “Besides, as a guard, wouldn't you do what you could to get rid of them?”
“Not like this. But I suppose you are right. They are a menace.”
“Right, but to Sundermount first, so let's get moving. Now who's turn was it again?”
***
The scene had drastically changed since they turned off the Wounded Coast, and headed into the wooded area surrounding Sundermount. Sand and rock became tree and brush. The Vimmark Mountains stretched out before them on the horizon, with Sundermount being the tallest amongst them, and the most feared. It was said the mountain was cursed, plagued by demons and over unholy creatures that had been summoned during the war between the Tevinter mages and the Arlathan elves. It was a war long since over, but the creatures summoned by both the mages and elves still believed the battle continued.
It had reached nightfall by the time they entered the forest. Within the trees, but close to the edge of the road, they set up camp. It wasn't until the sun started peaking over the horizon did they set forth again, through the forest and straight to the looming mountain.
“Do we even know where this Dalish clan is?” Isabela asked after a long period of silence. Their traveling games had become stale, and neither of them really wished to speak in high voices in the shadow of the mountain.
“No, but my guess is they'd probably be at the base of the mountain,” said Aveline. “No one else could possibly camp there except for a clan of Dalish.”
Jordan shivered as she thought about what it would be like to camp so close to Sundermount. She had only traveled to the mountain once before, a job for Athenril. She, Aveline, and a few other smugglers had been sent to investigate why a certain shipment hadn't arrived yet. It took them some time to find the caravan, but when they did, they found it at the base of the mountain. There was no one there at the camp, like it had been completely deserted. No bodies, no signs of struggle, none of the cargo had even been touched. The fire in the makeshift fire pit was even still crackling like it had just been made. They never figured out what happened to the crew bringing in the shipment, and neither of them wanted to investigate further. All they did was gather the cargo and head back to Kirkwall as fast as they could. It was another reason why Jordan had been trying to avoid coming. Sundermount sent chills up her spine, and even with the group traveling behind her, she still wondered if they would suffer the same fate as that smuggling crew.
Bethany shivered beside her, no doubt feeling the ancient magic, as there really wasn't much of a chill in the air. “How are we going to find them, though?” she asked. “From what I know about the Dalish, they can hide themselves fairly easily, and don't like humans coming too close to their camp.”
“We're not all human,” said Jordan. “We've got a dwarf and an elf. Hey, Fenris,” she said getting an idea. “Maybe you could--”
“Just because I'm an elf, doesn't mean I can help you, Hawke,” he said slightly glaring at her.
“Okay, sorry. I don't know how you elves function. Just thought I'd ask.”
“I think, if anything, we're more likely to stumble upon one of their hunters than the actual camp,” Anders stated.
“You think so?” Jordan turned her head to stare at him. “What makes you so sure?”
“Because we're being tracked right now. Turn around.”
She wasn't sure what he meant, how it was possible he could sense someone was tracking them while she couldn't, but as soon as she turned back around, she stopped. Her eyes immediately locked on the arrowtip that was only inches from the flesh between her eyes.
“You will go no further, shem.” The elf had come out from the trees. He was in strange leather armor, one decorated with images of nature and strange symbols. He also looked slightly different than the elves Jordan had witnessed in the city. He was more built, thicker, perhaps, with eyes that weren't dull and lifeless. There were also dark tattoos upon his face, wavy in pattern, reminding Jordan of water. He was fixed on her, unwavering even though he was outnumbered. That had to mean there were probably other elves in the forest, watching them with arrows already loaded and pulled back.
“Greetings,” Jordan said a little shaky, not really sure how to address these elves. The one in front of her was obviously not afraid of humans.
“Quiet,” he said, unblinking. “You are not welcome in these parts. You have come too close to our camp.”
Jordan blinked a few times, trying to find the right words to say, but coming up short.
“Andaran atish'an, falon,” said Anders, slightly nodding his head to the elf. This caught both the elf and Jordan by surprise. Keeping his arrow still on Jordan, the elf moved his gaze over to Anders.
“And how does a shem know the Dalish greetings?”
“I was taught by one of your own. A Grey Warden from Ferelden.”
“We don't have any clan members who went to become Grey Wardens.”
“She may not have been apart of your clan, but she did still teach me a few things. Please, allow me to say we mean you no harm. In fact, we have been searching for a Dalish clan camped at the base of Sundermount. Is that where your clan is located?”
“It is.” The elf took a few steps back and relaxed a little, but still kept his bow taunt. “Why have you been searching for us?”
“I have a trinket I must give to your Keeper,” said Jordan as she pulled out the amulet. “This here is a promise I must keep.”
The elf stared at the amulet before he finally lowered his bow. He then whistled a few notes and from behind them and to the sides, came out from the trees at least three other elves. All of which still had their bows drawn on Jordan and her friends.
“What is it, Fenarel?” one of the females asked. “What have these shems said to let down your guard?”
“They speak of what the Keeper told us,” said Fenarel. “They are here with the promise.”
“Really?” the female elf said with wide eyes. “Are you sure? We believed it would be a flat-ear who might bring such a thing.”
“We were wrong. Lower your bows. These shems are not to be harmed unless they show hostility.” Fenarel then stared back at Jordan. “Follow me. I shall take you to Keeper Marethari, but be warned: If you should try anything, our arrows will not hesitate to enter your flesh.”
“Of course,” Jordan nodded.
Fenarel gestured for them to move forward, through the trees and off the road. The other elves surrounded their group as they followed Fenarel to the mountain base. Once they came through the trees to a clearing, Sundermount looming over them, the camp of the Dalish revealing itself. It was smaller than Jordan thought it would be, but then again, she wasn't exactly an expert on the Dalish either. That having been made perfectly clear. It made her grateful to have Anders along, and not just for his company.
As Fenarel took them through the camp, many of the Dalish there stopped what they were doing to stare at the group of humans, one dwarf, and a city elf. All their strange elven eyes laid upon them, almost making Jordan even more nervous than being so close to the mountain. As they reached the center of the camp, Fenarel brought them to a large bonfire with an older elf standing beside it. He stopped and bowed to her.
“Andaran atish'an, Keeper. I have brought to you the ones you said would come. The shemlan woman here says she holds the promise.”
“Ah, yes. Ma serannas, Fenarel,” she spoke as she faced Jordan. “You may go.”
Fenarel might have protested, but he kept his mouth closed when the Keeper nodded to him curtly. He bowed to her, then gave Jordan a hard glare, which she knew to mean he would be watching them. Once he was gone, the Keeper smiled over at Jordan.
“Andaran atish'an, travelers. I am Keeper Marethari, protector and guide to my people. And you have traveled a long way to get here, haven't you?”
“Indeed I have,” said Jordan. “I've come all the way from Ferelden to give you this.” She handed Marethari the amulet who examined it closely. “Were we really expected?” she asked after some time.
“You were,” said Marethari as she took her eyes from the amulet. “I knew you were coming, and that it would be soon.”
“How?”
“I listened. To the wind. To the birds, as the hunters do. To my dreams. I watched the stars. There is great wisdom to be found all around us if you know how to listen for it. I wasn't certain about your form, however, or the exact time of your arrival. Nothing is ever completely certain.”
“Of course. But I guess my next question is why am I delivering this amulet to you?”
“As are you, I am also tied to Asha'bellanar by a debt that must be paid. Together, I believe we can both make sure those debts do not linger for much longer.”
“Are you able to tell us what the amulet is?” Bethany asked. “It feels powerful, but I've been too afraid to examine it myself.”
“You are not the one that needs to fear it, child,” Marethari said, reassuring. “I believe it is this one who made the promise, yes?”
“Yes, it was I,” said Jordan.
“The amulet is a promise, made by one whose word still has weight. And therefore it has terrible power. There are few things in this world stronger than a promise kept. Remember that.”
Jordan knew. She knew it all too well what a promise kept could do, or what it could do if broken. The small scar on her index finger started to tingle slightly. Marethari closed her eyes and nodded, probably knowing the reason for Jordan's silence.
“I believe you wish to continue with the ritual?” she asked.
“Ritual? What ritual?” Jordan said, not understanding.
“Your job is not complete, child.”
“All the witch said was that I needed to bring the amulet to you. She didn't say anything about any ritual.”
“The ritual needs to be done with both parties present, otherwise the debts will not be paid.” Marethari handed Jordan back the amulet. “In order to do the ritual, you must venture up the mountain, and lay the amulet on the alter. From there, my First will then say the words, and all will be done.”
“Your First?”
“Her name is Merrill. She is what you may consider to be my apprentice, or heir. She would have taken my place as Keeper, but certain circumstances have changed that. She has chosen a new path. In which, I ask if you could please take her with you once everything is done.”
“You want me to take your First with us? That seems like an odd request.”
“I don't necessarily wish for her to go, but I have been unable to convince her otherwise.” Marethari sighed. “No matter what, she will leave this clan, and I would prefer her to go with a group that will insure some type of protection. A lone elf is easy prey, and Merrill, well... she's special.”
Jordan breathed out, and looked back at her companions. None of them seemed to be protesting the potential of having another added to their group. It might actually be beneficial considering it would be just another extra hand in helping her with gathering coin for the expedition. “Alright, we'll take her,” Jordan said, turning back to Marethari. “Just point us in the right direction and we'll have this ritual done in no time.”
“Ma serannas. You have done this clan a great favor. You'll find Merrill waiting for you on the trail leading up the mountain. Dareth shiral, and good luck to you.” Marethari then gestured to a path that spiraled up the mountain. There were no tents or landships around it. In fact, no one stood near the path, as if they were trying to avoid it all together. It made Jordan only more nervous as she stared up the path and her eyes climbed all the way to the mountain peak.

Paraphrasing from Dragon Age 2
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Blood Promise