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Blood Bond	By : Hikari86 Category: +A through F > Dragon Age (all) > Dragon Age (all) Views: 4278 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 1
Disclaimer: Bioware owns everything Dragon Age. I claim no ownership and make no money/profit.

Chapter List
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Help Wanted

When Zelda made it back down to the throne room, she quickly told everyone about her plan to head to the Circle Tower. At first they were unsure, as they did not know if leaving was such a good idea, even if it meant not killing Connor. Eventually, everyone agreed, as it was also a way for them to get the mage's help with the Blight at the same time. Zelda, Alistair, Leliana, and Rupee soon set out to bring back more mages. Zelda would have taken Jowan along with them, but he had stated it wouldn’t be the best thing. It was the Circle Tower that was looking for him, after all, and him going back there would only cause more trouble then they needed. Reluctantly, Zelda left him in Teagan’s hands who promised to watch him and to not lock him back up unless he tried to escape.
The four of them headed toward the tower by boat, provided by the village. Many of the villagers were excited to see them returning, hoping to get some answers, but Zelda was only able to give them quick details as she was in a hurry to leave.
It took longer than they had hoped. It wasn’t until nightfall when they began making their way across the lake to the north. Many said that this was the fastest way to the tower. That if they kept going throughout the night, they should reach it by morning.
It was a long night, and tiring, but luckily the wind was on their side, and at some points they could rest while it blew them north. They would also take turns sleeping in the boat, even though the sleep they got wasn’t peaceful. One would sleep, while the other two rowed. Eventually, when the sky began to lighten, the Circle of Magi came into their view.
The tower was very impressive. It was high, almost seeming to be touching the clouds. It was mysterious looking, fascinating, but also foreboding. The tower was like a cathedral located in the middle of the lake. There was also a bridge that stretched it’s way across from the tower to the mainland. In the bridge was a huge gap in the middle. This was done on purpose so that there was only one way to enter the tower. It was also this that kept them from going directly to the tower themselves. A type of magical ward, or something like it, kept boats on the lake from entering the tower. Only one boat could pass through the ward, and that was located on the mainland, which was where they headed.
At the base of the bridge, was a small dock where they tied off the boat and walked onto shore. They all stretched their legs, and Rupee leaped about, happy to be on solid ground. The only thing built close to the dock was an inn called ‘The Spoiled Princess’. Further down, right next to the bridge, was another boat similar to the one they had just traveled in. Zelda knew that this was the one they needed to use in order to get past the ward. Next to the boat, however, was something that she did not expect. A templar stood there, instead of the usual man.
“Halt!” he said as they walked up to him. “You’re not looking to get across to the tower, are you? Because I have strict orders not to let anyone pass!”
“And who are you?” asked Zelda. “Where is Kester? I thought this was his ferry.”
“Kester’s not in charge at the moment. I am,” he said sticking his thumbs at himself. “My name is Carroll, and Greagoir put me here to make sure no one could get to the tower.”
“Really?” said Alistair. “And why is that?”
“Because he said so, that’s why.”
“Look,” said Zelda pinching the flesh between her eyes. “We need to get to the tower as soon as possible. There is a dire matter at hand, and we need the assistance of the mages.”
“Well, it will have to wait because I’m not suppose to let anyone pass. Not yesterday, not today, and not tomorrow either.” Carroll crossed his arms and positioned himself so that he was blocking their way to the ferry completely.
“What about the day after tomorrow?” Alistair asked.
“Well, Greagoir never mentioned that, but I’m sure I can’t let anyone across then either. He said he would send me a message when it was time.”
“Oh, I don’t have time for this!” Zelda nearly shouted. “I am a Grey Warden, and I demand that you let me pass!”
“Oh, you’re a Grey Warden, are you?” Carroll said as if he didn’t believe her. “Prove it.”
“Prove it? Don’t you recognize me from the fliers? I’m the female human Warden that Howe is desperate to get his hands on.”
Carroll seemed to consider her for a moment before answering. “Nope, sorry, don’t recognize you. We templars have more important things to deal with than worrying about looking for Grey Wardens and all. I’m sure if Greagoir saw you then he might recognize you, but he never handed any fliers around to us.”
“Then how do you know? Maybe Greagoir is looking for me. If you take me to him, then he could tell you for sure. And that would prove I’m a Grey Warden.”
“Hmm, you have a point there.”
“And if you don’t take me, and I get away, I’m sure Greagoir would be furious with you. Are you sure you want that, especially if he finds out I was here?”
Carroll’s eyes widened. “No, of course not! Hmm, but I’m not even sure he is looking for you. I guess there’s only one way to find out.”
“It’s better to be safe than sorry,” Zelda pointed out.
“Right. Come on, get in the ferry and I’ll take you to him.”
The ferry was only slightly bigger than the one they had crossed the lake on, making them all cramped and confined. Normally, the ferryman would only take two people at a time to the tower, but Carroll was not willing to make so many trips and would only allow everyone to come to the tower if they all went together. The trip to the tower was short, however, compared to the one across the lake at least. Once they got to the dock located underneath the tower, Zelda thanked Carroll then they made their way to the stairs that lead them to the first floor.
When they reached the top, and walked through a set of great doors, they came to quite a sight. All around the main atrium templars ran about. Some were tending to wounded, while others were gathering things and readying themselves. The presence of strangers didn’t seem to register in any of their minds as the group made their way through. Knight-Commander Greagoir stood in the middle of the chaos, giving out orders. He was an older man with graying hair, but a rough face showed he was no stranger to battle. Zelda knew little about the man except that he had been the knight-commander of the Circle Tower for a long time, and was very strict when it came to the rules.
“I want two men stationed within sight of the doors at all times,” he said to a templar as they approached him. “Do not open the doors without my express consent. Is that clear?”
“Yes, ser,” the templar bowed. On the other side of the room, Zelda noticed a similar set of large doors to the one they entered from. They were shut and had templars standing next to them. They looked ready and waiting, as if something would burst from the doors.
“The doors are barred,” Alistair whispered in her ear. “Are they keeping people out? Or in? Either way, it’s not a good sign.” Nothing they were seeing right now proved to be a good sign.
“Now we wait, and pray,” Greagoir muttered to himself, closing his eyes and shaking his head.
“Knight-Commander Greagoir,” Zelda said as she bowed to him. He startled a bit, widening his eyes at her presence then narrowing them.
“By the Maker’s sake! Who are you?” he demanded. “I thought I gave Carroll explicate instructions not to bring anyone across the lake. We are dealing with a very delicate situation. You must leave, for your own safety.”
“I can see that, Knight-Commander, but I’m here on strict business,” said Zelda. “I am in dire need of the mage’s assistance in the matter of life and death. If I do not hurry--”
Greagoir waved her silent. “I do not want to hear it because unfortunately there is nothing I nor the mages of this tower can do for you at the present. Now please, I will allow Carroll to take you back over, and you must not return. This is for your own good.”
“No, I refuse,” Zelda said frustrated.
“You refuse?” Greagoir repeated. Zelda stood up straight and looked him right in the eyes. She would not let him back her down. In turn, Greagoir mirrored her appearance. Together they stood, neither one willing to give in. “I do not want to have to force you out, but I will,” he said.
Zelda wasn’t going to be intimidated by him. All she could think of right now was getting back to Redcliffe to help Connor. The young man’s terrified face was imprinted on her mind and it wouldn’t let go. She knew that there wasn’t going to be anything that would stop her from helping him. Not even whatever was going on in the tower.
“Please,” she said, but did not show any type of eagerness in her voice. “Tell me what is happening here. Maybe we can help.”
Greagoir raised an eyebrow. “What is it that brings you here in the first place? You said it had something to do with life and death.”
“Yes, I came here straight from Redcliffe. There is a matter there that requires the aid of the mages, but I will discuss that with them only. I have also come here to ask for their aid in the Blight as well. I have a contract that was signed that says they must help the Grey Wardens when we call.”
“So you are a Grey Warden? I thought you looked familiar.” Greagoir sighed. “I am weary of the Grey Wardens’ ceaseless need for men to fight the darkspawn, but it is their right. You’ll find no allies here. The templars can spare no men, and the mages are... indisposed. I shall speak plainly: The tower is no longer under our control. Abominations and demons stalk the tower’s halls. The Circle is lost. The tower has fallen.”
“The tower has fallen?” Alistair startled. “What happened?”
“We don’t know,” said Greagoir. “We saw only demons, hunting templars and mages alike. We attacked but then I realized we could not defeat them and told my men to flee.” He sounded neutral as he spoke.
“So then what can we do to help?” asked Zelda.
“I don’t know if there is anything you can do. I have already sent word to Denerim, calling for reinforcements and the Right of Annulment.”
This time it was Zelda’s turn to be startled. “The Right of Annulment? You can’t do that! If you do, then what am I suppose to do about Redcliffe?”
“It is my right, and I have done it because there is no alternative to the matter,” Greagoir shouted at her. He then calmed down as he could tell that they were both in the same predicament. “I am sorry, but if the Circle isn’t neutralized and the abominations dealt with then everything will be lost. I have already lost many of my templars. I do not wish to lose more.”
“But the mages aren’t defenseless. I’m sure there are still some within that live and are not abominations. There’s got to be!” Zelda was beginning to feel herself panic, but she didn’t show it.
“That doesn’t matter,” Greagoir said almost heartlessly. “Even if there are still mages alive, the Maker Himself has shielded them. No one could have survived those monstrous creatures. It is too painful to hope for survivors and find... nothing.”
“So you admit that you might have locked innocent people in the tower?”
“Yes, but I did not just lock up mages, my own templars are in there as well. Do you think that was an easy decision for me? Do you think I like killing a person that could be innocent, just to make sure that everything is secure? It is something that I know I will probably have to answer to the Maker for, but I know at the moment that it is the right decision. I must protect the greater good. Letting out the innocent may also let out the abominations, and I can’t chance that.” Greagoir looked away from her towards the door. He seemed to be looking at it longingly.
Zelda as well looked at the door longingly. “So you don’t know what happened that started it all?”
“No.”
“Then let my friends and I go in and investigate. We can find out what happened, and if we don’t find anyone alive then we’ll deal with the abominations ourselves.”
Greagoir turned back to her. “You’re serious, aren’t you?” he asked puzzled.
“Yes.”
He considered her. “Have you ever faced an abomination? It is a force to be reckoned with, and one that you must slaughter. You may also have to slaughter mages who have not become abominations, but instead have turned to blood magic. Do you think you can handle this?”
“I must try. It is the right thing to do.”
Greagoir sighed, relenting. “Then I will let you through the doors, but first a word of caution... once you cross that threshold, there is no turning back. The great doors must remain barred. I will open them for no one until I have proof that it is safe. I will only believe it is over if the first enchanter stands before me and tells me it is so. If Irving has fallen... then the Circle is lost, and must be destroyed.”
“That is understood,” said Zelda.
“Then may Andraste lend you Her courage, whatever it is that you have to face.” Greagoir moved over to the doors and Zelda and the others followed. He told the templars standing in front to open them. They at first protested, but with a stern order, they did as they were told.
Zelda gave Alistair and Leliana one last look. Each of them nodded at her, showing they would follow her anywhere. She could easily see the fear on their faces, and they could probably see hers, but that didn’t matter. They all trusted each other enough to know neither of them would let the other fall.
As Zelda turned back to the slowly opening doors, she hoped and prayed to the Maker that she would find what she needed. That he was safe and not turned into an abomination like most of the mages Greagoir mentioned. And she also prayed that she could have the strength to end this quickly, and get back to Connor just as she had promised.
When the doors were open enough for them to fit through, Zelda, Alistair, Leliana, and Rupee made their way in. The templars then shut the doors behind them. A loud, but also dull click sounded throughout the atrium. Everyone hoped they would succeed.
***
The excitement in Arawin was so intense that she felt she might burst. She was finally going to find the Dalish. She was finally going to come face to face with the ones that she always wanted to meet. She had spent many years reading about them in books, and trying to figure out what was fact and what was fiction. Now she was going to find out personally, and it made her beam.
Arawin knew that there were several things she wanted to ask them once they found the clan. The first, of course, was to have them promise to send troops to deal with the Blight. This she knew wouldn’t be too difficult, and also shouldn’t take very long. The other things she wanted to do was learn about any gaps she might have about their culture. She figured that shouldn’t be too difficult either, as it was told that city elves came to live with the Dalish many times. But the one thing that she was most determined to know was how to use a bow properly. She had determined this after her failed attempts during Zevran’s ambush. If anyone could teach her in a short amount of time, it would be them.
Arawin figured after doing her Grey Warden duty, they might be able to stay with the Dalish for a few days. During such time she could learn all she wanted to know before heading to what ever destination they were to go to next. It was a plan that made Arawin smile, and Zevran noticed.
“You look so happy, mi querida. Might I ask why?”
“Why do you ask such stupid question?” she said. “You know why I’m happy. You said you found the Dalish, yes? And now I finally get to see them. Course, if you’re lying to me and we find out, I’ll be sad. Then I’ll kill you and be happy again.”
“Such a sadistic little mind you have.”
Arawin’s smile broadened. “I wouldn’t be me if I didn’t.”
They followed Zevran’s lead through the forest. The mood around them all was fairly good, except for one of them. Sten kept looking around at the trees, and grunting disapproval.
“What’s wrong, Sten?” Arawin asked.
“I do not like this forest,” he stated.
“We’ve been in this forest for a long time now. Why are you just now complaining?”
“Because we are going deeper in. I have heard stories of these woods. The dead rising, trees that can walk and talk, animals possessed by spirits, and wicked, evil things that strike when one is not aware.”
“Are you sure you’re not thinking of the Korcari Wilds?” Arawin chuckled. “Because one of the wicked and evil things from there happens to be walking right beside you.”
“Oh, Arawin, you are so kind as to acknowledge my presence with such wonderful enthusiasm.” Morrigan said with mock friendliness.
This made Arawin laugh out loud. “Morrigan, you know you’re scarier than any creature in this forest. I’m sure they cower in your presence.”
“There are worse things in this world than me, you know.”
“Such as your mother? I’m sure nothing would mess with her, but she’s not with us right now, is she? So what is suppose to protect me from all the evil in the forest if not you?”
“Why don’t you ask the assassin, who you willingly allowed in your bed last night? I’m sure that’s what you could ask for payment.”
Arawin turned and glared at her.
“You sound as if you want to join in, my sweet witch,” said Zevran as he turned to her as well.
“Call me that again,” Morrigan said smiling sweetly at him. “And you may never be able to distract Arawin again.”
“Are all women in Ferelden so cruel?”
“Afraid so,” said Arawin.
“Ah well, but if you fear the things in this forest, then you need not fear them any longer, dear Ara.” Zevran tried to make his way to her side, but was unable to by Kunjo who still refused to let him walk beside her. “For since I vowed to follow you, I will protect you from anything that might harm you as well.”
“Thanks,” she said. “But I can protect myself.”
“And I have no doubt that you could, but you never know, right?” He made his way back up to the front of their group. “For I am an assassin of great skill. I am as quiet as a mouse, and as stealthy as a--” He stopped abruptly when an arrow, only inches from his face, was pointing at the space between his eyes.
“And yet you breathe so loudly we could have shot you in the dark,” said the elf holding the arrow. Zevran grinned at him timidly. His eyes darted from the arrow tip to the elves face. They all had arrows trained on them, and soon realized they were surrounded.
Arawin looked around at each elf, all wore leather armor that was very different from her own. She knew at once that these were Dalish elves. Quickly, she shifted through her memories of anything about the Dalish that might help them at this moment. The elves obviously saw them as a threat, and Arawin needed to show them they weren’t.
“Aneth ara.” Arawin bowed to them, hoping that the little elvish she knew would help.
The woman who had her arrow fixed on Arawin looked on at her puzzled. “Strange,” she muttered. “You may be of our kind, but you are not Dalish. Why is it that you are here? Or did you not know that you were coming dangerously close to our clan?”
“I have actually been looking for you,” Arawin said.
The woman’s face did not falter, nor did she move her bow. “You are not like any of the other flat-ears who have come looking for us. You have strange company with you, and you are well armed. What is your purpose, then?”
“I have come on important business. I must speak to your... Keeper! At once.” Arawin grinned, proud of herself for remembering the name of their leader.
“What business is it that you must speak?”
“I will say, only to him,” Arawin said while crossing her arms. It was a bold move since she knew there was nothing she could do to stop them from killing her or her friends, but she couldn’t show them fear. “I am a Grey Warden, and I request an audience with your Keeper. Please.”
The woman then lowered her bow. None of the other elves followed her move. She instead, stared at Arawin with a type of curious fascination that made Arawin a little nervous. She might have said the wrong thing.
“A Grey Warden? That is not a lie that many would attempt.” She seemed to be considering for a moment. “Alright, I will take you to the Keeper, but be warned. We will have our bows on you at all times, even if you don’t see them.” She said something to the other elves in the elvish language that Arawin didn’t understand, but she could have guessed. The other elves lowered their weapons, and still surrounding them, began herding Arawin and the others down the trail.
It wasn’t long before she could see the campsite of the elves. It was a spectacular sight that sent joy into Arawin’s heart. She looked around, seeing Dalish everywhere. They all wore, except for a few, leather armor that was unique and beautiful. A style never seen in the armories of Ferelden. She noticed that the women wore armor that was in two pieces, showing off their midsections. She wondered why they would have such a weakness in their armor. Maybe it meant that Dalish women were so fierce, they could. It made her want to learn so much more. There were definitely things she did not know about.
As she looked around the camp, Arawin wished she had brought the books she had read with her. They might have helped her in understanding some of the things she saw that she couldn’t quite understand. She saw the landships, parked at different places within the camp. They were vast, and she knew that they were used to carry things for the Dalish as well as used for housing, but just how they moved was anyone’s guess. She also saw what she remembered to be called halla. White, deer-like creatures with long, spiraling horns. They were caroled in a pin to the far side of the camp. There were also statues of deities all around. Almost all of them seemed to be broken in one form or another. Arawin didn’t recognize any of them, and was unable to read the inscriptions on their bases to find out anything more.
The elven woman lead them to a landship that seemed to be more decorated than the others. In the front, was a bald elf who wore a long, green robe with etchings of plants and animals within the fabric. He was talking to a younger female elf in similar robes next to him in the same elvish tongue. When the woman brought Arawin and her companions over to them, they both stopped and stared at the small group.
“Hmm. I see we have guests. Who are these strangers, Mithra?” he asked the woman who had brought them to him. “I have precious little patience and less time to spend on outsiders today.”
“Abelas, Keeper,” said Mithra. “But I have brought them to you because this one claims to be a Grey Warden and wished to speak with you. I thought it best to let you decide what should be done.”
“That was wise of you. Ma serannas, Mithra, you may return to your post.”
“Ma nuvenin, Keeper.” Mithra bowed to him before she and the other elves left. The female elf looked up at him before he nodded at her. She nodded back and made her way behind the landship.
“Greetings,” said the Keeper as he turned his attention to Arawin. Arawin made her way to the full front of the group. It was her responsibility after all. “Allow me to introduce myself. I am Zathrian, the Keeper of this clan, it's guide and preserver of our ancient lore. And you are?”
“My name is Arawin,” she began. “Grey Warden, and am here to--”
“If you came to bring news of the Blight in the south, it is not needed,” he interrupted her. “I had already sensed its corruption. I would have taken the clan north by now, had we the ability to move.”
This made Arawin raise her eyebrows. “You do not have the ability to move? What do you mean?”
Zathrian sighed. “That is, unfortunately, a long story. At any rate, I can guess for the reason why you are here. It is because of the treaties our ancestors sighed long ago? As much as I would like to help, I cannot do so.”
“Is it because of what you mentioned?”
“Yes, it is.” Zathrian sighed again.
“Please, tell me,” said Arawin. “I’m sure there is something that can be done. I need your support with the Blight. I didn’t travel all this way to just be told ‘no’.”
Zathrian considered her. Arawin noticed as he did how pale his skin was, especially when compared to the other elves in the clan. His eyes also seemed to be empty, as if void of any life within them.
“I guess it wouldn’t hurt to tell you,” he finally said. “But I think it would be best to show you instead. Follow me.”
Zathrian lead them around the landship and to an area that had been hidden behind it. There, laying on cots, sheets, and anything that looked to be soft were elves, male and female alike, who looked to be beaten, bruised, and bloodied. They all were twitching and moaning in agony. Their skin covered in blood and sweat. The female elf who had been talking to Zathrian earlier was knelt next to one of them, her hand hovered over his head. She chanted something softly while a soft light emitted from her hand. The elf, who was crying out the loudest, soon calmed down and closed his eyes. He was soon asleep, but his body still tossed and turned.
Zathrian stopped them in front of the area. Arawin couldn’t help but to look at them with a sense of foreboding, as there were many elves showing signs of sickness. And she believed that this was not all of them either.
“The clan came to the Brecilian Forest one month ago,” Zathrian began. “As is our custom when we enter this part of Ferelden. We are always wary of the dangers in the forest, but we did not expect the werewolves would be lying in wait for us. They... ambushed us, and though we drove the beasts back, much damage was done. Many of our warriors lie dying as we speak. The Blight’s evil must be stopped, but we are in no position to uphold our obligations. I am truly sorry.” He had been staring out past the dying elves as he spoke. Towards the end, he turned his attention back to Arawin.
It was something Arawin wasn’t excepting. Werewolves? Had Sten been right? “You mean there are real werewolves in the forest? I thought they were only legend.”
“I am afraid that they are not a legend,” said Zathrian. “Werebeasts have roamed this land for many years, even beyond the time of men or elves. They are animals possessed by spirits and turned into horrific monsters. Long ago, the humans did war against the creatures, and nearly wiped them out, but unfortunately, not all. Now, they are back with full force, and have attacked my clan.”
“But why did they attack you?” Arawin asked. “And how could they?”
“It doesn’t matter,” said Zathrian sounding as if he was getting angry. “They are savage and unrelenting; they need no reason to attack anyone. What is curious, however, is the ambush. We expect werewolves to be no more cunning than a rabid wolf. The ambush suggests a level of intelligence we’ve never seen before.”
“Then maybe they are more intelligent than you once thought,” said Morrigan. “‘Twould not be the first time such beasts were underestimated.”
“I doubt that,” Zathrian said crossing his arms. “The very curse that is in their blood fills them with an unreasoning rage that precludes any true thought.”
Arawin looked back at the sick elves. One of them caught her attention more than the others. He was laying on a blanket on the ground. He was not moaning and twitching as much as any of the others were, but his wounds seemed worse. He had long gashes all over his body and face. At first Arawin thought him to be asleep, but then noticed his eyes open and he looked directly at her. He didn’t falter his gaze or even seem to be surprised by her presence. He only stared at her, as if she wasn’t even there. Arawin began to feel a remorse for him run through her. She felt remorse for all of them.
“Are they going to become werewolves?” she asked still looking in his near lifeless eyes.
“That, or they will die from the curse,” said Zathrian. There appeared to be no emotion in his voice. “Lanaya and I have done what we can to slow the curse and make them more comfortable, but it will not last. The curse is already running wild in their veins, and soon it will win them over. I fear that when it happens we will be forced to slay our own brethren. It is not something to look forward too.”
The female elf, who Arawin assumed to be Lanaya made her way over to the elf who was still staring at her. Lanaya took the elf’s head and tilted it up so she could ladle liquids down his throat. He coughed a few times before she laid his head back on the ground and made her way to another elf. Arawin watched as the elf closed his eyes again. A grimace flashed across his face, and he scrunched up his body. Arawin finally looked away from him, not wanting to witness any more. She was beginning to feel a burning inside her that she knew all too well.
“Is there nothing that can be done for them?” she asked Zathrian.
“There isn’t, but...” Zathrian trailed off. “No, that is not something that I would ask you to do, if that is what you’re getting at.”
“Just tell me.”
“Within the Brecilian Forest dwells a great wolf called Witherfang. It was within him that the curse originated, and through his blood that it has been spread. If he is killed and his heart brought to me, perhaps I could destroy the curse, but this task proves to be very dangerous. I would send hunters out into the forest to retrieve the heart, but I do not wish to risk any more of my clan. I am afraid that it is hopeless.”
“No,” said Arawin. “It is not. You won’t have to risk any of your hunters. We will go into the forest and get the heart.”
Zathrian gazed at her with inhibition. “I have already said that I do not wish to ask this of you.”
“You are not asking. I am saying. And I am also saying that if I do this, and I get the heart and you are able to heal them, then can I have your word that you will help me with the Blight?”
“I guess if you are willing...”
“Who said we are all willing?” said Morrigan. “I never said anything about going and hunting down a werewolf.”
“If that’s how you feel, Morrigan,” Arawin said. “Then you don’t have to come with me. Do any of you two not wish to join with me as well? I will go by myself if that is the case.”
“Do not insult me,” Sten grunted. “I would not shirk from my duty. Not if it is a task worthy of the goal at hand.”
“That’s one at least,” stated Arawin. “Well, two actually, because I know Kunjo will come no matter what.” Kunjo emphasized her statement with a loud bark.
“That dog would follow you right into the Deep Roads without a single blink, I’m sure,” said Morrigan.
“And so would I,” Zevran spoke up. This made Arawin raise her eyebrows at him. “What? I said I would follow you, and so I shall. Besides, I’m sure you’ll need my skills tracking down this Witherfang anyway, right?”
Arawin couldn’t help but to smile at him. “Yeah, that’s true. I suck at tracking.”
“Tsk,” Morrigan groaned, rolling her eyes. “I suppose then I shall follow as well. ‘Twould be bad to send you into a forest with the Veil so thin. You will need me more than you need him.”
Arawin’s smile broadened. She knew she could count on all of them to help her out. She turned back to Zathrian. “You see? We are all willing.”
Zathrian nodded. “It is good to hear, but I must warn you that more than werewolves lurk in the Brecilian Forest. It has a history full of carnage and murder, you see. Where there is so much death, the Veil separating the spirit realm from our own becomes thin as your friend said. This allows spirits to possess things living or dead.”
“So then do I have your promise?”
“You do.” Zathrian held up his hand. “Im qwesta.”
Arawin looked back at the elf on the ground. He had his eyes closed now. Maybe he was asleep this time. “I will need supplies,” she said. “Can you provide me with some?”
“You should speak to Master Varathorn, then. He is located at the aravel just beyond this one. You may tell him what you need. I will also send out word to the rest of the clan that you and your companions are my guests and should treat you as such.”
“Uh... Ma serannas,” said Arawin, pleased with herself.
“No, I should be the one thanking you,” said Zathrian. “This will do much for my clan. Now, if you will excuse me, I must be getting back to my duties. There is much I need to do for my people.” Arawin watched as Zathrian made his way over to where Lanaya was tending to the sick. He began speaking to her. She looked over at Arawin and smiled before running off, probably to tell the clan of the good news.
Arawin turned her attention back to her friends. “Okay,” she started. “I think we should leave as soon as possible, but not right away. Is there anything that you guys need to do or gather before we head out?”
“I would like to restock my satchel,” said Morrigan. “Zevran took up most of what I had left of elfroot and deep mushroom.”
“Ha, that’s entirely my fault, is it?” Zevran laughed.
“I never said it was, but it is surprising how such a small framed girl could fracture the hip bone of a full grown man.”
“I didn’t realize I hit him that hard,” said Arawin. “I guess I’ve got more power behind me than I thought. Anyway, I’m sure the Dalish have plenty of herbs for you to use.”
Morrigan shook her head. “I prefer to get them myself.”
Sten seemed to be looking around the camp. He scratched his chin as he took in the sites. “I think I shall go and investigate,” he spoke. “If we are to be hunting werewolves, then I wish to know more about them.”
“You go do that,” said Arawin. She watched as Morrigan and Sten went about their separate ways. She was only slightly aware of Zevran still standing next to her.
“So what shall we be doing, then?” he asked.
“I’m going to go and talk to Master Varathorn,” Arawin answered. “You can do what you like.”
“Oh really? You mean you don’t want the company?” He gave her a devilish smile.
“I would prefer to do this on my own, actually.” Arawin began walking in the direction of the landship Zathrian had pointed her to. Zevran tagged along beside her.
“Might I inquire to ask why?”
Arawin sighed and rolled her eyes. “It’s... it’s because I want to ask one of the Dalish and see if they could... teach me how to use a bow.” She said the last part almost in a whisper.
Zevran began laughing hard. “You don’t have to ask the Dalish such a thing! And you don’t have to act all embarrassed at it either. There are plenty of other elves that don’t know how to use one. Although you do look rather lovely with that red in your check. But you do know that you could ask me. I could teach you just as well as the Dalish.”
“No offense,” said Arawin. “But I think the Dalish might be better at it since it is something they are famous for. Besides, I don’t feel like having you laugh at me the whole time.”
“Laugh at you? For what, learning?”
“See this?” she said showing him the large, round bruise on the inside of her right arm. “I got this from trying to use a shortbow for the first time after cutting you down.”
They both stopped and Zevran took a look at her arm. “Ah, yes, I remember those days,” he said gently. “When I first started to learn, both of my arms were entirely covered in such bruises. It’s nothing to be ashamed about. It happens. Even experienced archers still get them from time to time.”
“Really? You’re not just saying that?”
“It could be true,” he said shrugging his shoulders. “Oh, who am I kidding, I’ve never seen an experienced archer with them. And I would have to say, if I was conscious when you did this, I would probably be laughing my head off.”
Arawin growled at him and stormed off, but not before having the urge to hit him.
“I am only joking, Ara!” Zevran went after her only to be snipped at by Kunjo who was growling at him intensely. The mabari stared at him before making his way to Arawin’s side. Zevran still followed, but kept his distance. He skirted around to her other side as she made her way over to the landship.
They found Master Varathorn outside of the landship, working on what looked to be a breastplate. He was an elder man with graying hair and an aging face that reminded Arawin of her father.
“Oh, hello there,” he said looking up from his work. “You must be new. I am Varathorn, craftsmaster to this clan. And you are?”
“Arawin,” she said. “I’m the Grey Warden.”
“Oh!” Varathorn’s eyes brightened. “So you are the one who is willing to risk their lives for the sake of our clan. I thank you very much for your bravery.”
“You are welcome, but I--”
“What are you wearing?” he interrupted her.
“What?” she said looking down at herself. “It’s just leather armor.”
“No, that is not leather armor. If you are going to go into this forest, then you will need something more proper. I’m sure I have something that will do for you.”
“Well, I actually need a couple of things from you,” said Arawin. “Zathrian said you could provide me with some supplies.”
“Ah, yes. Lanaya told me that.” Varathorn turned around and began examining the various items on the table behind him. “Let’s see, weapons. Are you in need of any swords? I have some very nice ones here.”
“No, I have good swords already. I don’t need new ones.”
“Then what about bows? Do you prefer short or long?”
Arawin bit her lip. “Well, that’s also something else I wanted to ask. You see, I don’t know how to use a bow.”
“You don’t?” Varathorn didn’t seem surprised. “Oh, well, then let me see what else you may need.”
“What, you’re not surprised?” said Arawin.
Varathorn smiled at her. “You’re an elf from the city, yes?” Arawin nodded. “Then it’s not all that surprising. We get elves from the city all the time, and all of them know nothing when it comes to using a bow, or even a sword.”
“Oh.” Arawin felt a bit stupid for thinking that she was the only elf who didn’t know how to use a bow. She felt Zevran shift behind her. He was probably thinking I told you so. “Then can I ask if maybe... you could teach me how? I would love to learn, but it would have to be a quick lesson. Just the basics, really.” Again Zevran shifted, but also cleared his throat. Arawin stomped on his foot.
Varathorn chuckled. “I’m afraid I can’t do that. Not that I couldn’t teach you, but I’m way too busy right now. I’m sorry.”
“That’s okay,” said Arawin. She was disappointed, but didn’t show it. “Is there anyone you know who could?”
“Now let me see?” he said pondering. “If it’s a quick lesson that you need, then the best person to ask would be Lisha. She’s the best hunter in the entire clan and teaches all the children, as well as all the city elves. If anyone could teach you fast, it would be her.”
Arawin could barely contain her excitement. “Really? Where could I find her?”
“Last I heard, she was... oh wait, maybe it’s not such a good idea.” Varathorn shook his head.
“What’s wrong?” Arawin asked, her hope beginning to fade.
“She was last seen in the area just north of the halla fences.” Varathorn’s face became grave. “That’s where we buried all those who were killed during the ambush.”
“Oh.” Arawin hung her head. “Did she lose someone?”
“It’s not really my place to say,” said Varathorn. “I would suggest not looking for her there, but she might be somewhere else by now. If you still want to ask her, just look around.”
“I will.”
“And don’t worry about a thing. I’ll get everything I know you will need ready.” Varathorn turned back to the table and began picking through everything, muttering to himself. Arawin turned to leave. She was determined to find this Lisha and hopefully get what she wanted.
“So we are now on a hunt for a hunter,” said Zevran as he walked by her side. “Again, I say I can teach you. And it wouldn’t have to be a quick lesson. I can teach you on the way to where ever it is that we go.”
“But you’ll just make fun of me,” Arawin pouted.
“Of course I will! Why would I not?”
“This is exactly why I didn’t want to tell you,” she said starting to become angry. “How am I suppose to learn if you're laughing the whole time?”
“Not all the time, and I do promise to be serious when I need to be.” Zevran smiled his big smile at her and Arawin couldn’t help but to stop and stare.
“I... I guess,” she stuttered out. How was he able to do this to her? Of course, she wasn’t going to give up her pursuit. “How about this: I get started with this Lisha, then once we leave the clan, you can teach me the rest if you are so inclined to do so. Is that fair?”
“Fair as one can be with your stubborn ways. Tsk, tsk,” Zevran shook his head. “Now where? Maybe those elves by the fire might know where she went?”
“Actually, I was hoping to find her by myself.”
Zevran looked at her puzzled. “May I ask why?”
“I just do.”
“Alright, I will give you what you wish. Course, if all you want is to just be alone, then you need just say so. I will oblige to you, however, I would like to learn more about this Lisha. Best hunter in the clan? Hmm.”
Arawin laughed at him. “You’re impossible.”
“What?” he said sounding innocent. “I just want to learn.”
“Then go learn and leave me in peace.”
“As you wish.” Zevran made his way towards the elves by the fire. Arawin watched as he sat on the log next to a few of them and began a conversation. She then began making her own way toward the halla fences.
***
Arawin could hardly contain her excitement as she walked around the Dalish camp. Her dream had finally come true, but not just hers.
“I made it, Mother. Can you believe it?” It had always been her mother’s dream to meet the Dalish, and it was something that she had passed down to Arawin. Every night when she was little, her mother would tell her stories and tales of the wandering clans. Arawin had asked her mother at one point why she didn’t go and seek the Dalish herself.
“I don’t need to,” she said. “Because I have you.” Adaia would smile at the little girl, tuck her in and kiss her on the forehead. “My sweet, Ara. I am content with this life. I have you and your father. It is more than I could hope for. But you, my sweet little sparrow, you will be able to do great things. I know you will. You and Shianni will be able to travel and find the Dalish and see the great forests of this world. It’s what you are meant to do.”
Arawin smiled at the memory. It was true, or at least most of it was. Her mother had many dreams, but none of them were able to come true. Adaia had to make many sacrifices in order to keep Arawin and Cyrion happy and safe. That included giving up her dreams. Perhaps even her death was a sacrifice. Arawin stopped, as she thought of the memory before. Of her as a little girl, wrapped in a blanket with her mother telling her stories. She could still feel the warmth in her heart. It was a good feeling, because it told Arawin that she had not lost her mother. At first, she thought she had when she left the alienage, but she had been wrong. Her mother had been with her the whole time, in her heart, and there she would be until Arawin’s ending days. And it would be through her, that Adaia’s dreams would come true.
Arawin began wandered throughout the camp again, making her way to the halla fences and towards the area that Varathorn had pointed out. As she passed the large, white beasts they seemed to stop and stare at her. Arawin gazed into one of their eyes and saw in them the same intelligence that she had seen in Kunjo’s.
As Arawin rounded the fences, she found a slightly worn path between the trees that lead into the forest. She began following it, rounding the trees and through the bushes. Before long, the path opened up into a clearing that showed a sad sight.
She found herself looking into a clearing that had several freshly planted saplings. There were many, and they were scattered about the area, and stretched back far into the field. It was very quiet in the clearing, cold feeling, and depressing. Arawin knew that these were graves. The Dalish would plant a tree over the body of their fallen comrade. She couldn’t tell how many there were, but if she could help it, there would be no more.
Arawin scanned the area, but saw no one in the clearing. Where ever Lisha was, it wasn’t here.
She began to turn around, to make her way back to camp when something caught the corner of her eye. Within the tree line, next to the path, Arawin saw an elf knelt next to a sapling. The sapling seemed different to Arawin. It looked smaller than the others. Slowly Arawin made her way over. The elf was softly chanting something in the elvish that Arawin didn’t understand. As she got closer she could hear the words.
“Or ‘waith bain nura Anor.
A panlû elin cuinar.
U-pedithon ‘i-aur gwann’.
Egor nai îl namarië’.”
Arawin stopped and listened. It was a beautiful language that she spoke. It seemed to drift off her tongue like water, and Arawin desperately wished she could understand what the elf was saying.
“Man carel le?”
Arawin startled, as she realized that the elf was probably talking to her. “I-I’m sorry,” she said. “I did not mean to disturb you.”
“Perhaps you didn’t, perhaps you did,” the elf said. She stayed on her knees, eyes closed facing the sapling.
“I’m just looking for someone,” said Arawin. “You’re name isn’t Lisha, is it?”
The elf opened her eyes and slowly turned. “That is my name, yes.” Arawin was then able to get a good look at her face and marveled at the tattoo that was etched on it. She noticed that it was different from the other tattoos on the rest of the Dalish. All their tattoos were done to represent trees. The treetops symmetrically drawn on their foreheads, with trunks going down their noses or checks, then roots upon their chins. Each tree set in a different and unique way, but still similar in the end. Lisha’s tattoo seemed to more represent water. Waves played upon her forehead. They then cascaded down the right side of her face, past her eye and down her check like a waterfall.
“I...” Arawin wasn’t sure what to say. “I was told you might be here. I’ve been looking for you.”
“Yes, you mentioned,” Lisha said standing. “What is it that you seek, young one?”
Arawin cleared her throat. “I was hoping that maybe you could teach me how to use a bow. I need a quick lesson. See--”
“You do not need to describe the reason for your intentions. It is clear to me why you seek such knowledge, but you will not find it here.”
“What do you mean?” Arawin asked.
“You wish for me to teach you the Vir Tanadhal? I say no.”
Arawin was taken aback. “Why not?” she demanded.
“Because I have not found you worthy,” Lisha said in a calm, but cold voice.
“How am I not worthy?” Arawin had to check her anger. This elf was beginning to make her mad, but she couldn’t lose her cool.
Lisha walked over to her and stared her directly in the eyes. Arawin’s own green met the elf’s light brown. “Because you came here to this place of death. I am sure if one told you that I was here, that they also said to not come? It is of great insult, you know.”
“Well... I...” Arawin found herself tongue tied. In truth, she did come here looking for Lisha, but she also came to see the graves. She wanted to see what the werewolves had done. “I didn’t just come here for you. I came to see the fallen. I wanted to see the planted trees and--”
“You are an elf of the city?”
“Yes.”
“Then what purpose do you have coming to see the dead who you did not know?” Lisha narrowed her eyes. “I do not know why Zathrian allowed you here, but you shouldn’t have come, not at a time like this. Go back to your city, young one. I am sure it is far less dangerous, and I cannot babysit. Now if you would excuse me, I need to get back to my duties.” She began making her way past.
Arawin could only stare, confused as Lisha walked by and down the path. She wasn’t sure what had just happened. Did Lisha not know who she was or why she was here? She only thought Arawin to be a regular city elf come to join the clan. Arawin began to wonder what Varathorn was talking about. If this was how Lisha acted, then why would any city elf wish to be taught by her?
Arawin took one last look at the sapling Lisha had been knelt next to. She noticed that it was far away from the others and wondered why. Either way, she knew that she was going to have to think of something else. Learning how to use a bow was probably not going to happen now.

All Sindarin used to replace missing words belongs to JRR Tolkien.
The prayer that Lisha is saying is actually the last verse of a poem written by Tolkien called 'Vi Dýr Ennui'. For the full poem and it's translation, please visit this site: istad .org/ tolkien/ poetry .html
All Sindarin that is used was gathered from one of these sites: arwen-undomiel .com and The Hisweloke's Sindarin Dictionary
Sindarin Translation:
Im gwesta: I swear
Man carel le? (mahn kah-rell lay): What are you doing?
Poem:
Or 'waith bain nura Anor: Above all shadows rides the Sun
A panlû elin cuinar: And stars always dwell
U-pedithon 'i-aur gwann': I will not say 'The day is done'
Egor nai îl namarië': Or to the stars 'farewell'
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Blood Bond