Adult-FanFiction.org : Games

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
- 67
- 68
- 69
Vendetta

They had decided to take only six to break into the Denerim estate, Kunjo and Rupee counted amongst them. Such a small number was less likely to cause trouble, although it also meant they couldn't get caught, otherwise they might not have the ability to escape.
The four chosen to go were the ones that looked the least conspicuous. They had decided that Zelda, Arawin, Leliana and Zevran would be going, as all the others had something that would give away that the new guards just arrived didn't appear to be right. Wynne and Morrigan were both mages, and even though neither Zelda nor Arawin liked the thought of going in without a mage, this was one thing that was going to give them unwanted attention. Mages weren't apart of the guard, not unless they were personal guards. Sten and Oghren would be obvious giveaways as well. Not only because their race was something usually unseen in a nobleman's guard, but also because both their heights meant there was no armor for them to wear that would fit. Alistair on the other hand was a different matter. He could have easily passed as a guard, but Zelda told him no anyway.
“You're too important, Alistair. You're not going.”
Alistair was obviously furious, not understanding why he couldn't go with them. “If you think I'm letting you go in without me, you're crazy!”
“Then I guess I'm crazy because you're not going.” Zelda stood her ground. She wasn't going to let him influence her.
“But... what about Arawin and Zevran? They're elves and elves aren't normally in the guard.”
“That's not always true,” said Zelda. “But in this case, the helmets they'll wear are going to cover their ears and hide the tattoos, so it won't matter.”
“Zelda, I can't believe you're doing this...”
“And I can't believe you're arguing with me on this! If something happened, do you realize it would give Loghain the perfect reason to be rid of you? With you here, then they have no reason to go against you if we're caught.” She held up her hand to keep him from interrupting her. “But that won't happen, so don't start that again.”
“So if it won't happen, then why can't I go?” Alistair glared at her and crossed his arms. She was glad he was finally taking a stand on something, but she wished he had picked something else.
“I'm not explaining it to you again,” she said rubbing her face. “You're staying, and that's finally.”
“No, I say-”
“Oh shut it, Alis!” Arawin yelled. “It's not like you're missing anything. We're just rescuing the stupid queen. We'll be back before you know it.”
“I don't care,” said Alistair. “I'm not-”
“Oh Maker's Breath,” Zelda moaned. “That's it! I'm not having this conversation anymore. Alistair, you're staying, end of story! I will tie you down to the bed if I have to!” Before he could say anymore, Zelda turned her back on him and walked out of the study. Alistair took a step to follow her, but stopped and stared at the doorway.
“This isn't fair,” he muttered.
“What isn't fair?” said Arawin. “That you can't go? You do realize you put us in charge, right?”
“Yes, I know that, but... I don't want her risking her life for me. She's going into Howe's estate. Doesn't she know it would be a perfect opportunity for him if she's caught?”
“Trust me, Alistair, Zelda knows, and we won't get caught. It'll be a quick in and out job, right Zev?”
“Exactly,” Zevran answered. “So don't worry, my friend,” he said patting Alistair on the back. “I'll be with them. No harm will come to the lovely ladies while I'm there.”
“Fine, but that doesn't mean I still agree with it.” Alistair crossed his arms again and looked away.
“That's all Zelda wanted, I'm sure,” said Arawin. “Now come on, Zevran, I'm sure Zelda and Leliana are waiting.” The two elves left Alistair in the room all alone. Once they were gone, he then went and stood by the window, staring out of it at the city.
When Arawin and Zevran reached the main hall, they found their four companions waiting for them. Kunjo went over and licked Arawin's hand, excited that he was finally able to take part in the action once again.
“So are we ready to go?” Leliana asked.
“Yeah, we are,” said Zelda. “So let's hurry and get through the market, then we'll take the main road-”
“No,” Arawin intervened. Zelda looked at her curious. “No main roads, it's too dangerous and too slow. The fastest and best way would be to take the back allies.”
“But I don't know the back allies.”
“Are you forgetting who you're talking to? I lived in this city and know the back allies better than the back of my hand! Plus they won't be as clogged as the main streets, so we have less chance of being recognized as we go.”
“I never thought of that,” said Zelda. “That would be best. Okay, then lead the way, Arawin.”
Taking the lead, Arawin lead them out of the estate and into the market. Before going further, she stopped and looked toward the alienage. The gates were still closed, which meant she would still have to sneak in. She sighed before turning away from it and leading them into an alleyway.
Once in the alley, Arawin felt right at home. This was her element, this was the place she knew better than anything. The back allies were nothing but a maze of passages between buildings. They were the perfect place for crime and hiding, as well as the perfect way to get around the city, as long as you knew where you were going. Arawin did, and she lead them, turn after turn, knowing everyone behind her was probably confused on where they were.
As they went, Arawin's instincts began to kick in. She listened to every noise, took in every smell. Her eyes became sharper as they darted every which way, looking for anything that might be considered harmful. Her ability to be aware of her surroundings was good here, but that might only have been because it was her home.
As she made her way down a particular alleyway, she then noticed something that didn't feel right. One of the things about the back allies was that they never changed. Throughout her whole life, the allies had stayed the same due to the fact the nobles didn't see any need to pay money to fix them. The market had changed, the palace district had changed, but the back allies stayed the same. But something had changed, and this was what caught Arawin's attention. This part of the alley was unoccupied, but small things, such as litter, made Arawin suspicious. She could feel something was ahead of them, something that meant danger. When she looked back at Zevran, she saw he was feeling the same thing.
Arawin continued on, however. They were close to the Denerim estate now, and turning around to find another way would take up too much time. Whatever was ahead of them, they were just going to have to deal with.
When she turned the corner yet again, they came to a set of stairs that would lead them up and to a main road that went straight to the Denerim estate. Arawin went to take the first step up but then froze when she heard what sounded like the notching of arrows, and the click of a trap getting ready to trigger. Kunjo and Rupee began to growl. Their narrowed eyes staring straight up at the top of the stairs. Arawin followed their glares to a man standing at the top grinning down at her.
“So here is the mighty Grey Wardens at long last,” he said. “The Crows send their greetings, once again.”
“Taliesen,” Zevran growled.
“And there you are, Zevran.” Taliesen sent a devilish smile down at him next. “I heard you were traveling with the Grey Wardens and had gone rogue. I didn't believe it at first, but apparently it's true.”
“So why are you here, then? Did the master force you, or did you volunteer for the job?”
“I volunteered, of course! I just had to see you for myself, and ask you why.”
Zevran slowly walked to the bottom of the stairs, never taking his eyes off Taliesen. He stood by Arawin and careful removed her foot from the trap she had triggered, disarming it before it could go off. “What's the real reason you came, Taliesen?”
Taliesen watched as he disarmed the trap, a look of interest on his face. “Does that really matter?” Taliesen chuckled. “Sure they're Grey Wardens, and they're deaths will mean great things for me, but we used to be friends. I know why you came to Ferelden, and I don't blame you. Is that the same reason why you're with them? Because of what happened to Rinna?”
Zevran cringed. “You don't have any right saying her name!” he yelled. “Not after you cut her throat.”
“But it was you who told me to do it, wasn't it? You said that's the way a traitor should die.”
Zevran looked down at the ground and Arawin noticed him clenching his fists. This sounded familiar, and that name... Was it the name of the woman Zevran didn't want the Guardian to say?
Zevran looked back at Taliesen, glaring. “I was wrong.”
“Fine, you were wrong,” Taliesen said rolling his eyes. “If that's what you want to believe, then fine. So with that now settled, why don't you come back with me? We'll make up a story, say this was part of your plan. You wanted to go after the Grey Wardens, gain their trust as you waited for reinforcements. You wrote me a letter, telling me all about it so I would be the one to come. How does that sound?”
Zevran said nothing, only continued to stare up at his former comrade. Arawin wondered if he was actually considering it, as it was a tempting offer. He could go back to Antiva and back to his old life. Arawin didn't want to believe that he would take it, but she had a feeling he might.
“Fine! I'll fight all of you, I don't care!” Arawin blurted. Zevran looked over at her surprised. “Don't think I don't know in order for you to do that I'd have to be dead first.”
“That's not going to happen,” Zevran said calmly. “Because I'm not going to let it.”
“What?” said Taliesen. “You've gone soft! And for a woman? Course I can see why. She is rather lovely, isn't she?”
“I'll show you lovely, fool.” Arawin took out Fang and Dar'Misaan. Fang instantaneously burst into flames as she felt her anger rise. At the same time from shadows and corners came the rest of Taliesen's companions. They were surrounded by assassins, arrows pointed directly at all their heads.
“Yes, I can definitely see why he likes you now.” Taliesen's smile broadened as he looked down at her. “This should be fun.” He brought out his own daggers and began running down the stairs, straight for her. Arawin ran up them, meeting him in the middle.
Fang collided with his Crow dagger, sending flames sheering in the air. He kicked at her with his foot, but she deflected it with her own. She then brought Dar'Misaan around, striking the longsword across his side. Taliesen grimaced from the stinging pain, but his leather armor had blocked him from most of the electrical damage. He then brought his other dagger across Arawin's chest and kicked at her again. Arawin blocked his dagger with Fang, shifted left to avoid his kick. Fighting on the stairs was giving her a disadvantage as she was below him, but Arawin was about to make it even as she leaped up a step and struck at his legs with Dar'Misaan. Taliesen didn't expect the move and his leg went out, causing him to lose his balance. Grabbing Arawin's arm, they both went tumbling down the stairs.
Arawin lost Dar'Misaan on the way down as her body hit every step. She landed on her back, Taliesen on top of her. She brought up Fang just in time to block Taliesen driving his dagger down on her throat.
“Oh yes, you are definitely his type,” said Taliesen. “Fiery, quick, determined, and oh so beautiful up close.”
Arawin growled as she tried to buck him off with her legs but he pinned them in between his own. She struggled with him, but her movements were limited, allowing Taliesen to remove Fang from her grasp and had her pinned to the ground in the same way Zevran had the first night he came to her tent.
“Coward!” Arawin screamed. “Fight me for real!”
“Oh, my dear,” Taliesen smiled down at her. “You know, if it wasn't for me having a contract to kill you, I think the three of us would've made an excellent trio. That's how it was before. Rinna was just like you, only she wasn't as stupid. But ah yes, to think of you and the two of us in the bedroom... I'm a little jealous Zev got to know you that way.”
“What are you talking about?” Arawin said struggling to get free. “Zevran and I were never like that.”
“Don't lie to me,” Taliesen chuckled. “I think I know Zevran better than you do. Who do you think taught him all those moves? How to pleasure, how to send fire through a woman's veins? Did you really think he knew that all on his own?”
“He did grow up in a whorehouse.”
“Only until he was four! My, so you do know something about him. I guess that means you know more? Perhaps you know his kiss, which should be very similar to this one.” He quickly lowered himself on her, pressing his lips to hers. The kiss was anything but passionate, forced as Arawin struggled to get him off. She moved her head back and forth, but he stayed glued to her before finally coming off on his own. “Tasty too.”
“Ah, sodding bastard! You're going to pay for that!”
“No, if anyone is going to pay for it, that'll be you.” Taliesen placed both her hands in one of his and grabbed his dagger with the other. “It's been nice knowing you, Grey Warden, but once you're dead, then I can take Zevran back with me and we can go back to the life we used to have. One that doesn't involve the complexity of a woman.” He lifted the dagger and pointed it down at her, ready to drive it in.
Arawin began to laugh. “Are you forgetting something?”
“Forgetting what?” he asked.
“That I'm not the only Grey Warden you have to kill!”
Taliesen didn't have long to stare at her before a gray shield collided with his head and knocked him off. Arawin quickly got up and placed herself on top of him, Fang at his throat, the flames licking his skin. “Now what were you saying about killing me?”
Taliesen struggled underneath her, but the tip of a sword coated in ice pointed in his face.
“Look, he's trying to get away,” said Zelda. “I seriously think he did forget about me. Silly boy.”
“Is everybody all right?” Arawin asked, not taking her eyes from Taliesen.
Leliana joined on her other side and pointed an arrow at Taliesen. “Just fine. That was easier than I thought. You Crows aren't as impressive as I thought you'd be.”
“Killing me won't stop us from coming after you,” Taliesen spat, his attitude changing severely.
“Maybe so, but I think with your death, it'll be a start.” Arawin jammed Fang into his side, the fire flaring, burning his skin. Taliesen didn't scream though, only grunted.
“Wait.”
Arawin pulled Fang out and moved aside for Zevran. Blood coated his face as he stared down at his former friend. “You shouldn't have come, Taliesen.”
“What, so you're going to be the one that kills me? Is this justice for Rinna? You know you can stop this, Zevran. We can still go back together. Start over. You know that's what you want.”
“Not anymore, my old friend. Maybe if you had come sooner, but now it's too late. The answer is no, and you should have stayed in Antiva.” He took his own Crow dagger and drove it straight into Taliesen's chest. He then cut Dar'Misu across his throat and Taliesen stopped struggling. Once it was over, Zevran threw his daggers to the side and walked away.
“And there it is,” he said softly. “Taliesen is now dead, and I am free.”
“You mean from the Crows?” Arawin asked as she came over to him. “Will they assume you are dead with Taliesen?”
He looked into her eyes and nodded. “Yes, as long as I don't make my presence known. It'll be the same for you as well. I don't think another Crow is going to come after the three of you.”
“Thank the Maker,” said Zelda. “That's good news.”
It might have been good news, but Arawin kept her focus on Zevran. He as well never left her eyes. “So what are you going to do now?” she asked.
“I don't know,” he said. “I'm free. I can go anywhere I wish.”
“So are you going, then? I did release you from your vow.”
“You did... but I never released myself from it.” Zevran smiled at her. “This Blight business is a real predicament, and I know you're going to need all the help you can.”
“Wouldn't it be dangerous, though, still traveling with us?” Arawin was feeling hopeful that he would stay, but she knew him leaving would probably be the best for him.
“Wasn't I already in enough danger? Fighting darkspawn, werewolves, trekking through the Deep Roads and nearly being splattered against a wall by a broodmother? Besides, even if I did go, eventually the Blight would find me, wouldn't it?”
“If we failed, yes, but that won't happen.”
“So you see why I should stay?”
Arawin smiled. “Yeah, I do, and I'm glad you're staying. But... but... wow.” Suddenly Arawin began to feel odd. Her vision blurred and things began to slow down, spinning in front of her.
“Arawin?” Zevran said as he looked at her questioningly.
“I... don't...” She wobbled a little before falling, Zevran catching her.
“Arawin! Shit. Arawin, what's wrong? Tell me.”
“Wh-what?” She looked up at him, but was unable to register anything he said. She blinked several times and her whole body went limp in his arms.
“Oh,” Zelda moaned as she staggered as well. “Why do we not feel right?”
Placing Arawin on her knees, Zevran focused on Zelda as Leliana helped to steady her. “Zelda, what's going on? What are the symptoms? I need to know.”
“Huh? Oh, right, let's see... a little nausea, dizziness, uh... vision blurred, heart beat slowing, shallow breathing, and just feeling weak.”
“Is it both of you or just Arawin?” Leliana asked.
“Just Arawin. I'm not getting the full force, but I'm still feeling horrible.”
With a determined face, Zevran turned back to Arawin. “Listen to me, Ara, I need you to tell me: Did Taliesen kiss you?”
Arawin's head flopped around before Zevran steadied it and forced her to look in his eyes. “Ara, tell me, did he kiss you?”
She nodded.
“Damn it,” Zevran breathed.
“What is it?” said Leliana as she helped Zelda to sit down. “She's been poisoned, hasn't she?”
“Yes, it's Adder's Kiss,” he said as he rummaged through his pack. He soon pulled out a small flask full of a sticky black substance. “I should've known. It's one of Taliesen's favorite poisons and his favorite way of distributing it. Here Arawin, eat this.” He opened the flask and scooped out some of the contents and forced them into her mouth. Instantly Arawin spit it out and gagged.
“Ugh, what the sod is that stuff?” said Zelda. “I can even taste it.”
“It's what's going to save her as long as I can get her to eat and keep it down. Come on, Arawin, I know this stuff is horrible, but you need to eat it.” He stuffed more into her mouth and closed it, forcing it down her throat. Arawin retched and everything came back up. Zevran turned her on her side and held back her hair as she threw everything up.
Zelda felt herself grow even more nauseated. It hit her before she could resist it and pretty soon she began throwing up as well with Leliana helping her. The bard couldn't help but to laugh at the situation.
“This isn't funny, Leliana,” Zevran said as he forced more of the black substance into Arawin's mouth.
“I know it's not. It's just you got both of them to throw up. It just struck me as funny.”
“You know, it actually is,” said Zelda after wiping her mouth. “But I think I'm good now. I've completely detached myself from her.”
Zevran still didn't think it was funny, and his face never changed as he continued to force the substance down Arawin's throat. He noticed she became weaker every time, and was even beginning to shake in his arms. Finally Arawin was able to keep the stuff down and after a few tense minutes as the substance did its work, she stopped shaking and opened her eyes. Zevran watched as she blinked and looked around. She stirred and he let her sit up but kept his hands on her to keep her steady.
“Oh, what the sod was that you made me eat?” she asked rubbing her eyes. She made to throw up again but only dry heaved.
“A mixture of a few things that you really don't want to know about. Trust me. It's a potent concoction that works fast against poisons, especially poisons that attack the nervous system, like Adder's Kiss does.”
“I thought that bastard was doing something other than just kissing me. Know that I didn't just let him. He had me pinned and forced it on me.”
“You don't need to explain. I know how Taliesen is.”
Arawin saw that he was looking at her with great relief. It was comforting to her that he cared, and that he had probably just saved her life. She knew at that moment she wanted more from him. She wanted a life, a partner, a friend, a lover, someone who would be with her to the bitter end. She wasn't sure if he felt the same way, but she knew she wouldn't be able to just stay friends with him. At some point she would have to tell him her true feelings, but now was obviously not the best time. Neither was it the best time for her to ask him about Taliesen or the girl Rinna they had talked about before the fighting. She would have to ask all her questions and confess her feelings later.
“Are we ready to continue on?” Arawin asked.
“Are you sure you're up to it?” said Zevran.
“I don't have a choice.” She stood up with his help and looked at him as well as the others. “We have to save the queen, right?”
“Just don't push yourself too far,” said Zelda. “Or too hard.”
Arawin nodded, knowing Zelda was talking about more than just her physical condition, but also about the feelings she had for the place they were going. Again, the darkness began to creep, but with Zelda there, as well as Zevran, it didn't feel so bad.
Taking the lead again, and ignoring her stiffness, Arawin went up the stairs and took them to the streets.
***
It didn't take long before the arl of Denerim's estate appeared before them. Arawin saw that nothing had changed about it. It was still gloomy and evil looking. The only difference was the large crowd gathered at the front door. The crowd was filled with angry men and women, yelling at the guards posted at the door, asking them when the arl was going to pay them. Arawin had them stay back for a moment before she spotted Erlina standing off to the side of the crowd behind a wagon. She gestured for them to come to her.
“What's with the large crowd?” Leliana asked. “They don't seem very happy.”
“Arl 'Owe hasn't been very prompt at paying 'is workers,” Erlina explained.
“That sounds like him,” said Zelda. “He's never been quick about anything unless it benefits him.”
“Which is why we need to get inside, quickly,” Erlina said leading them away from the crowd and down the side of the building. “Ze servants' entrance is on the other side of ze 'ouse. Please follow me.” They did so, although Arawin could have easily lead them to it as well.
They went through a garden and Erlina stopped them before they could reach the servant door. There they saw two guards standing watch and looking rather bored. “Alright, 'ere is your chance,” said Erlina. “Ze uniforms I received are hidden in zese bushes. Put zem on and zen I will distract the guards.”
“Pff, two guards, why bother? We can take them,” Arawin huffed.
“It is best you don't. When ze changing of the guards occurs and zose two are missing, zen they will zink something is, 'ow do you say... amiss?”
As they took their original armor off and put on the new, heavier armor, which was heavier for all of them, Erlina ran up to the guards in a hurry.
“Oh! You must come!” she said in a panic. “I saw somezing! By the fountain! I zink is was a darkspoon!”
“Did you just say 'darkspoon'?” said the first guard.
“She means darkspawn, you idiot,” the second guard corrected. He then faced Erlina. “But a darkspawn in the gardens? Are you sure?”
“Yes! Right next to ze fountain. Please, zey will drag us all underground to be eaten!”
The second guard rolled his eyes.
“Do you think we should call for help?” the first guard asked looking a little scared. “I mean, if there really are darkspawn...”
“Did you fall off a cart full of stupid? Call for help? So they can see us act like scared little girls because of some knife-eared wench? Honestly, how in the world would a darkspawn get in the gardens without notice?”
“They do travel underground, don't they? What if it came from a hole it created? I think it best if we check it out.”
“Please, please,” said Erlina. “I don't wish to be eaten.”
“Andraste’s holy knickers!” the second guard said placing his face in his hand. “Fine, we’ll check the garden, if it’ll keep you from wetting yourself, the both of you. But there’s nothing there.”
“Zank you! Oh! It was over 'ere! Quickly!” Erlina lead them off, past the bushes everyone was hiding in and deeper into the gardens. When they disappeared from view, everyone went out the bushes and into the servants' entrance, leaving their regular armor hidden.
“Maker damn this armor,” said Arawin once they were in. “I can barely move.”
“I know what you mean,” said Leliana. “I'm not used to this heaviness. Hopefully we won't have to do much fighting.”
“What I can't stand is this helmet,” Zelda said as she took hers off. “Ugh, makes my head heavy and I can't see.”
“Be more adaptable, my dears,” said Zevran. “If you must, remove some of the plates within. It'll make it lighter and easier to move.”
“Hmm, I never thought of that,” said Arawin. “But what advice do you have for helmets?” She removed hers, but anything she was going to say after that was caught in her throat when she saw where they were.
It was the very same room she had awoken in after being knocked unconscious. The very same room where one of the bridesmaids had been slain. And if she looked close enough, Arawin could even still see the bloodstain on the floor.
“Arawin?”
Her eyes stayed fixed on the spot. Was the bloodstain really there, or just a trick of her mind? Arawin sensed Zevran standing next to her, his eyes on her then slowly moving to the spot she stared at. Did he see it too?
“Arawin,” he said again. Whether he saw it or not, she could sense in his voice that he understood more than she wanted him to.
Shaking her head, she was finally able to tare her eyes away. “Where's Erlina?”
As soon as she said it, the door opened and Erlina stepped in, closing it fast behind her. “Ah! It took me forever to be rid of zose two! I 'ad to say something to make zem fight in order for me to slip away.”
“Well you got away,” said Arawin. “Now where's the queen?”
“Just down ze hall, past the kitchens and in a guest room off ze main 'all. I can show you where to go-”
“No need. I know exactly where she is.” Arawin placed back on her helmet but not without noticing everyone staring at her. Even Leliana was becoming specious that something wasn't right. Kunjo came up to her and licked her hand, whimpering a little as he looked at her with big, doggy eyes. She scratched his head before turning from everyone to the other door in the room. The one she knew would lead to the kitchens. “Come on, everyone. Let's get moving.”
“So were you a servant 'ere?” Erlina asked.
“Not really. Just a guest at one point.” Arawin strode forward before anyone could say anything else. She could feel Zelda wanting to say something, but she pushed her away, not allowing her in.
When Arawin opened the door, the kitchens laid out before her, much busier than last time with more cooks running about. It was nearly lunch time, and they were all in a hurry to get it done before the massive horde of soldiers and guards made their way into the mess hall.
“No, no, no!” said one of the cooks seeing them. “Lunch is not ready yet, you need to get out!” She went and began ushering them to the other side.
“Sorry,” said Zelda. “We're new. We were told to come this way.”
“Well you were told the wrong way, so get out before Emmy sees you and your mutts. She doesn't tolerate dogs in her kitchen. Now out!” She pushed them out the door and into the mess hall where many soldiers sat, waiting for their dinner. Most were in conversations, not noticing the newcomers.
“So what do you think we're having this afternoon?” said one of the guards closest to them.
“Same thing we have every day,” said the one across from him. “Gruel and more gruel. You'd think Howe would want to feed us decent food.”
“Are you kidding?” said a third guard. “Howe's not even paying the labor that fixed this place. What makes you think he'll pay to feed us something other than gruel?”
“Plus we barely get paid as it is,” said the first guard. “And this place still looks like shit. What did that elf do when she was in here?”
“From what I heard, it was more than one elf,” the third guard put in. “Whole group of them stormed the estate and attacked Vaughan for being the bastard that he was. Crazy guy. He deserved it too for what he was known for.” The guard took a swig from his mug as his companions nodded their heads in agreement.
“Didn't that elf die?” asked the second.
“I don't know,” the first answered. “All I know is that Vaughan was killed by a crazy female elf who could light you on fire with just one look. What he did to her, I don't know, and I don't know what happened to her either. For all I know, the gruel we eat everyday is her, ground up and mashed.”
“Uh, don't make me puke.” The second guard held his hand to his mouth.
Arawin had heard enough, and began walking to the other side of the mess hall. The others followed, and she was glad they stayed silent.
The events of that day were beginning to become very clear to her, and the ring on her finger burned worse than it ever had before. She tried to ignore it, to not spin it on her finger, but she failed. She failed badly once she reached the corner she knew was the very one that was where Nelaros had died. She kept a straight face the best she could when turning the corner. The ring burned so bad she wondered if it would leave a mark, one that would be permanent.
The hall was no different than it had been before, except there was no dead body in the middle, and guards sat at tables on the sides, playing cards and talking more. Arawin felt someone gently nudge her, not realizing she had stopped in the middle of the doorway. It was Zevran again, nudging her forward and giving her a look of understanding. Maybe he didn't understand exactly why she had stopped, but he did know that Arawin was troubled. He took her hand, the one the ring was on, stopping her spinning. Instantly the burning seemed to go away, or at least wasn't as intense. Her heart fluttered at his touch. Why did he have to be so caring now?
“So did you hear what's going on in Highever?”
“What? More ghost stories?”
“What would you expect from a castle that had the entire family slain within? Apparently at night, guards are hearing screams coming from the chambers where the Couslands used to sleep. And the thing is, no one is in those rooms, so it's freaking a lot of recruits out, making them request to come either here or Amaranthine.”
“I'm sure it's not that bad.”
“If you don't think it's that bad, then why don't you request to go there?”
“I don't need to go to a cursed place. This one is bad enough.”
Zelda took the lead this time, forcing everyone forward. Arawin could feel her distress, but Zelda kept her out just as she had.
Continuing down the hall, Arawin took the lead again. She had reluctantly let go of Zevran's hand, even as the ring still burned but she no longer felt the need to spin it. She walked right past the spot where she knew Nelaros's body had laid without looking back. It made her proud she could do so, but her heart was beginning to feel heavy and at that point her desire to be out of there grew almost to a point of suffocation. The only thing that kept her going was knowing Zevran was right behind her.
Finally they reached the main hall where Erlina took over and brought them to a door just off to the side. The door was closed and a clear, blue ward shimmered in front of it, keeping them from getting at the knob.
“Great, maybe we should've brought Morrigan or Wynne,” Arawin said once she saw the magical barrier. “Why didn't you tell us about this, Erlina?”
The elf looked just as stunned about the barrier as she was. “Zis was not 'ere when I left,” she said. “Zere were two guards.”
“Erlina, is that you?” The voice behind the door was muffled, but everyone could tell is was Queen Anora.
“Yes, my lady. I am 'ere, and I 'ave brought ze Grey Wardens.”
“Thank the Maker!” Anora cried through the door. “I would greet you properly, except you can see the door is barred. Howe was apparently not content with heavy guard, instead wanting to use magic to keep me in here.”
“Yes, we can see that,” said Arawin. “So how do we open it?”
“You'll need to go after Howe himself. The mage who put up the barrier will be with him. Once you get him to take it down, then I'll be able to leave.”
“Wait, Howe is here?” asked Zelda.
“Yes, and I assume he'll be in his room,” said Anora. “If not there then in the dungeons.”
“Erlina, where is Howe's room?”
“Right down ze hall and to ze left,” Erlina said.
“It's not the old arl's room, is it?” Arawn asked looking gloomy.
“Yes, it is.”
Arawin sighed. “Then it's this way.” Maker, I was really hoping I wouldn't have to go back there.
“Thank you so much for this, Wardens,” Anora shouted through the door as they made their way back down the hall. “And please hurry. I don't know how much longer Howe plans on keeping me alive.”
***
The armor they wore kept them concealed as they walked through the Denerim estate. Most soldiers they walked past didn't even give them a second glance, only nodding their heads as they walked by. Only one soldier really gave them trouble. He had spotted Rupee and Kunjo and had to ask about them for Rupee's red coat and Kunjo's deep brown one were pretty rare to see. Most mabari coats were more of a light brown color. The soldier wanted to know where they had bought them, as well as to see if he could breed them with his own mabari. Zelda had declined him, but he still followed, insisting. It wasn't until they came to the bedchambers that he began to get suspicious of where they were going. It was here when Zevran stepped in to dispose of him, only putting him unconscious then throwing him into a closet and locking the door.
Once the soldier was taken care of, Arawin found herself staring at the door that would lead into the arl's bedroom. She hated this door, not just because of what was on the other side, but because it had caused her problems the first time she had come to it. The door had been locked, a tricky lock that she had been unable to pick at the time, and had also been nearly impossible to open. She was forced to smash her entire body into it, bruising her shoulder and making her arm swell later on. Now as she stared at it, the ring began to burn anew, and she wasn't sure if she could even enter. Out of everything they had faced, this was the one thing she feared the most.
“Are you all right?” Leliana asked coming beside her. “You've been acting awful strange ever since we came here.”
“I'm fine,” Arawin lied. “This is the arl's room. I just don't want to burst in. Howe might be in there right now.”
“He's not,” Zelda said as she come to her other side. “If he was then we'd be hearing screaming and laughter.”
“So then what are we waiting for?” asked Zevran. “Ara, can you open the door?”
He was either being very cruel or just trying to help her. Either way, Arawin at that point hated him for it. Right now she would have agreed to do anything as long as it got her away from that door. Away from the room just beyond.
She swallowed and her hand moved slowly to the door knob. The cold metal sent chills through her skin. They spread across her body and Arawin had to use an amazing amount of willpower to keep herself from shivering. When she went to turn the knob, she half hoped it would be locked and they would be unable to enter, but unfortunately for her, the knob turned easily and the door popped open.
Arawin let go of the knob and the door swung inward on its own, revealing the room. It looked no different than it had the last time. Everything was in the same place, even the bed. Arawin averted her eyes to the ground, refusing to stare in that direction. She would try and tolerate being in the room for as long as she could, but there was nothing that could get her to look at the bed. Nothing.
Zelda went in the room first followed by Leliana then the two canines. Arawin slowly took a step in with Zevran behind her. He didn't push her in nor did he encourage her to go further. He instead stayed next to her, his own eyes studying the room, occasionally glancing at her face.
“There's nothing here,” said Leliana. “Wait, what's this?” From an end table, Leliana picked up several pieces of paper and studied them. “The Grey Warden seal is on them but I can't read anything.”
“Let me see.” Zelda took the papers and saw the seal but noticed she also couldn't read the writing. “I think it's written in cipher. I guess if things had happened differently then I might have been able to read this.” Zelda went over to the end table and noticed other papers with the same symbols in a different handwriting. It looked as if someone was trying to work out how to decode the cipher. “Howe,” Zelda growled. “He's trying to learn Grey Warden secrets.”
“Why would he want to do that?”
“I don't know, but I'm taking everything so he can't.” Zelda collected the rest of the papers and placed them in her pack.
“So Howe's not here, now what?” said Leliana.
“Hmm, Anora said if he wasn't in his room then he'd more than likely be in the dungeons, and I would have to agree with her. Arawin, where are the dungeons?”
“I don't know,” Arawin said in a small voice. “I never got that far.”
“I can give a guess.” Zevran walked past and went around the bed and to a door on the other side. He opened it and found a set of stairs leading down. “Smells of blood and tears, looks dark and gloomy, and the fact it's attached to the arl's bedroom tells me I was right.”
“Then let's go,” said Zelda as she made her way to the door and down the stairs. Leliana and Rupee followed her without hesitation but Arawin stayed fixed in the doorway, Kunjo by her side.
“Come on, Arawin,” Zevran said gently. “It'll be all right.”
“No it won't. I can't go that way.”
“Why, because you'll pass the bed? Is this where is happened? Is this where you found her being-”
Arawin shot him a glance, lips curling over her teeth. “Don't. Even. Say it.”
“Arawin, it'll be all right. I'm here.” Zevran went around the bed again and took her hand. He guided her through the room, past the bed and to the stairs. “You can tell me about it later, if you'd like. I know you need to get it off your chest.”
“I don't need to do anything.”
“Yes you do. I've seen this type of behavior before, though it's mostly from the person it actually happened to. What happened to your cousin was a terrible thing, which is why you need to stop bottling it up inside. It's only going to get worse.”
Arawin kept her eyes away from the bed as they passed it and stayed quiet as he talked. She knew he was right.
When they went down the stairs, Arawin felt a relief pass over her, and she knew it was from Zevran. It was coming from everything, his presence, what he was saying, and from the feelings she felt for him. She wanted desperately to tell him everything at that point, but they needed to get through their mission first before she could do that.
They joined Zelda and Leliana half-way down the stairs where they were waiting for them. When they reached the bottom and opened another door, they found on the other side a single guard that was surprised by their presence.
“Hey, who are you?” he said. “You're not suppose to be-” Zevran made to silence him but his effort was unnecessary. Hands emerged from a cell behind the guard. They wrapped themselves around the guard's neck and with a slight struggle, were able to break it. The guard fell to the ground and the hands grabbed his keys and opened the door. They then dragged him into the cell and everyone heard the sounds of armor being removed.
“Just give me one moment, please,” said a voice from the cell. “I'll greet you once I'm properly dressed. Ah, there we are, that's better.” A man soon stepped out of the cell, wearing the guard's armor. His hair, dark and long, looking unkept and dirty while a layer of stubble covered his chin and full lower part of his face.
“I thank you for creating such distraction, stranger,” he said smiling at them, his mood different than his appearance. “I have been waiting weeks for such an opportunity. You never hear music in the sound of a key turning in a lock until you’ve been imprisoned.”
“That, I would have to agree with,” said Leliana.
“Who are you?” Zelda asked staring at him. There was something about him that was familiar, but she wasn't sure what.
“Introductions are in order, yes. I am Riordan. Senior Grey Warden of Jader, and you two look like Duncan's last recruits. Yes, the descriptions match except for a few additions.”
Arawin removed her helmet, as did Zelda. They both stared at him, dumbfounded at what he had just said.
“You're a Grey Warden?” said Arawin. “And you know us?”
“Yes, before the events of Ostagar, Duncan sent a letter to the warden-commander of Orlais giving descriptions and numbers of the Wardens here in Ferelden just in case something like this was to happen. Course I mean the massacre at Ostagar, not the civil war.”
“So what are you doing here?” said Zelda. “Are you the only Warden that came?”
“I did come alone, yes. When the warden-commander heard nothing more from Duncan or King Cailan, he still decided to send us along with the empress's forces. When we reached the border, we were turned back by Loghain's troops—being forced is a better way of putting it. Neither Empress Celene nor the commander were happy about the incident, and with still no word of the situation with the darkspawn, the commander decided to send one person to investigate. I volunteered since I am Ferelden, born and bred in Highever, and less likely to be suspected.
“When I reached Denerim, I kept undercover, of course. Seeing that Wardens were being hunted, I knew it wasn't a good idea to announce who I really was, so I stayed low, going through our Denerim vault and the battlefield at Ostagar, trying to identify our dead. I would've tried to find the three of you sooner, to help with whatever you were doing, but unfortunately I was caught. I was a fool to think nobody knew who I was, but apparently Howe had found out and with a poisoned chalice, I found myself in here, awaiting an opportunity to escape. And now with you here, that opportunity has come.”
“Glad we could give it to you,” said Arawin.
“Riordan,” Zelda said taking a step closer to him. “Are more Wardens coming?”
Riordan shook his head. “I'm afraid not. The warden-commander is not going to risk losing Wardens to Loghain's civil war. The other countries in Thedas have been warned, and they are preparing to defend themselves, but they will not help Ferelden. I'm afraid you're on your own, but from what I've been hearing, you haven't been doing a bad job of organizing an army, along with trying to bring Ferelden back together. So there really is a Landsmeet that will take place? Is Alistair really going to be crowned king?”
“That's what we're trying to do, yes,” said Zelda. “But unfortunately things aren't going in our favor. That's why we're here. Howe has the queen captive and if we don't free her, he may kill her and blame her death on us. If that happens, then there'll be no way for us to win.”
“That is a problem. But if you're wondering where Howe is, I saw him go down further into the dungeons with several guards.”
“Really? Thank you, Riordan. We'll go there straight away and hopefully get this over with quick. Oh, and we also found these papers. Are they yours?” Zelda handed him the papers they had found in the bedroom.
“Yes. These are my records. The names of the dead I could recognize at Ostagar. What I could find of Duncan’s own recruitment records. Copies of the Joining ritual I rescued from our Denerim vault. Those should never be seen by any outside eyes, but I trust in their encryption.”
“Howe was trying to decipher them, I think, but it looks like he didn't figure it out. But did you say the Joining ritual? Do you know how to do the Joining?”
“I have to,” Riordan said. “I did help Duncan during Alistair's Joining, along with many others. And I'd prepare for more Joinings since I know Ferelden is in desperate need of more Wardens, but that won't be possible. For the Joining to work... well, you know what is needed, but there is also something more important and rare.” Riordan eyed both Leliana and Zevran behind them, and Arawin and Zelda knew he wouldn't tell them what it was. Or at least not while they had two non-Grey Wardens amongst them. “Ferelden’s supply should have been in the vault,” he continued. “But it was gone. I can only imagine someone took it out and Howe either confiscated or destroyed it.”
“Damn it,” Zelda cursed. “Of course he would do such a thing. We need to find it and we also need to find Howe. Are you going to come with us, Riordan?”
“Even though I would love to get my revenge on Howe for what he did to me, I don't think I'd be able to. I'm very weak right now, and am in need of healing magic and a nice hot meal.”
“Then go to the arl of Redcliffe's estate,” said Arawin. “We have two very skilled mages there and I'm sure the arl will provide you with food and a bed. It's okay, you can tell him you're a Grey Warden.”
“Alistair is there as well,” Zelda added. “Tell him what you told us, and also tell him what we're doing. I'm sure he's freaking out right now, not sure what's going on.”
“I will do that,” said Riordan. “And thank you again, Sisters. I will look forward to your return once you're done with your mission.” He bowed to them before making his way up the stairs, limping slightly and holding his side. Zelda and Arawin watched him as he disappeared into the bedroom.
How did we miss he was a Grey Warden?
He's older, maybe he can hide it better.
Or maybe that's something else we need to learn. Sensing darkspawn is one thing, but maybe sensing other Grey Wardens is another.
Either way, come on, we need to keep moving. I know Howe is waiting for us.
***
They made their way cautiously through the dungeon, knowing any soldiers they might come across would resist them. They had no reason to be in the dungeons, which was why they abandoned their helmets. It didn't matter if they were recognized now. Howe was surely going to know Zelda the moment he saw her.
They didn't stop until they heard struggling and screaming ahead of them. There were men laughing as they tortured someone. Zelda went in the room where the laughter was coming from, despite Arawin's protest. Howe might have been in there, even though she couldn't hear him. She also just couldn't let someone be tortured like they were hearing.
“What's this?” said one of the men as they saw Zelda and the others come in the room. “Either we have ourselves some new play things or new torture victims.”
“I'd say both,” a second man chuckled.
“You don't know who you're messing with,” Arawin smirked.
“Oh really? Then this should be interesting.”
“Wait,” said a third. “I recognize them. Those two are the Grey Wardens Arl Howe has been wanting. If we get them then we'll be awarded greatly!”
“Then what are we waiting for men? Get them!”
Abandoning the rack, which gave Zelda a quick glimpse at a young man strung across, the men ran at them. Zelda upfront, blocked several sword strikes with her shield before swinging Silverbrand forward. An icy arch followed the blade in the air, and every place that it touched froze. Silverbrand cut across a man's exposed arm, breaking his skin as ice crystals began forming from the wound. It burned as he screamed, trying to take the ice off, resulting in also removing his skin. The fight didn't take long, soon all the men were down on the ground, their blood staining the floor.
A moan came from the rack and Zelda ran over to see the young man, completely naked, stretched out across it. He was bruised everywhere and his legs and arms looked awkward and out of place. Zelda quickly untied him and his arms and legs flopped onto the rack and he cried out from the sudden movement.
“Ah, what? What's going on?” he said blinking fast. He saw Zelda and startled, but when he realized she wasn't going to hurt him, he relaxed. “Who are you?”
“I could ask you the same thing,” said Zelda. “But are you all right?”
“What? You mean you don't know who I am? So my father didn't send you to save me?”
“Not unless your father is Arl Eamon,” Arawin said as she came beside the rack.
“No, he's not. My father is Bann Sighard of the Dragon's Peak Bannorn.”
“Oswyn?” Zelda said looking at him curiously. “I'm sorry, I didn't recognize you under all those bruises. Don't you recognize me?”
“Should I?”
“I'm Zelda Cousland, Grey Warden and daughter of Bryce Cousland. You were at my eighteenth year party. Do you remember now?”
“I think I do. It's just...” He sighed heavily as he took a soiled blanket from Leliana. He covered himself up, trying to get warm. “I've been down here so long, I can't really remember anything else.”
“Oh you poor boy,” said Leliana. “I know how you feel. Here, have some water. I know you must be parched.”
Taking her waterskin, Oswyn drank most of it down before handing it back to her. “Thank you. You don't know how much I needed that.”
“So why are you here?” asked Zelda.
“I'm here because Howe is a lying bastard, that's why. My best friend, the son of my wet nurse, had gone to Ostagar to fight the darkspawn. When I heard what happened at Ostagar, I was scared he might've died, for I had also not heard from him since he left. But then one day he returned. He was different though, as if what he had seen changed him. I asked him what had happened, but he would never tell me. Finally when I did get him to speak, he told me the truth of Ostagar, that the darkspawn had overwhelmed them because Loghain had quit the field, not because of the Grey Wardens.
“After he told me this, some of Loghain's men came to the bannorn and they took him away without any warning. Wanting to know why, I followed, determined to get him back and to also determine the truth. When I arrived in Denerim I learned that it wasn't Loghain who was holding him, but Howe. So I snuck around first, trying to get any information that I could before Howe came to me and said he had only taken my friend to help him. He had apparently caught the blight and they didn't want it spreading everywhere. I accepted this, as he said he would take me to him, but instead I ended up here. They've been torturing me ever since and I believe my friend is dead.” Oswyn tightened the blanket around his shoulders as he looked down at the ground.
“I'm sorry, Oswyn,” said Zelda. “I know what it's like to lose a close friend, especially to Howe. But you need to tell me, is he here? Do you know where he went?”
Oswyn looked up from the ground and into her eyes. “I'm sorry things couldn't've worked between us, Zelda. I know my father hoped maybe we could connect, but they were never too high.”
“It's okay, Oswyn,” Zelda said patting him on the knee. “You're friend was more than that, wasn't he?”
He nodded. “Howe was here, but only briefly before going deeper into the dungeons. That was maybe an hour ago. I'm not sure. It seemed long to me so I couldn't tell.”
“It's okay. But do you think you can walk and get out of here? Maybe if you put on the armor of one of these men then you can sneak out of the estate.”
“But where would I go?”
“Go to the Dragon's Peak estate. I'm sure your father is here or is going to be here soon. A Landsmeet has been called, so all the nobles are gathering.”
“So it's true, then?” Oswyn said surprised. “I heard rumors there was a Landsmeent, but I wasn't sure.”
“Yes, there is a Landsmeet, and we intend to take Loghain off the throne.” Zelda and the others handed and helped him place on bloodstained armor. The armor was too big but it was the only thing that would do.
“Thank you again,” Oswyn said once they were done. He was having trouble walking, but after a few minutes of stretching his legs, was able to finally stand. “I heard my captors talk of a secret entrance. If I remember correctly, I should be able to find it and escape that way. Once I'm out of here I'll go straight to my father and tell him what happened. I'll also tell him what you did and I'll make sure he supports you in the Landsmeet.”
Zelda nodded her head and Osywn limped out of the room.
When Oswyn was gone, they moved on, making their way through the dark and damp dungeon. Zelda's determination to find Howe grew as they went. What he had done to Oswyn, what he had done to everyone, these were all things that plagued her mind, driving her anger and her need for vengeance.
When they passed a closed door, Rupee stopped and growled. Kunjo soon joined her, sniffing the door then growling as well. When Zelda noticed this, she moved to the door and placed her ear to it. She could hear muffled voices, and one of them she knew was Howe's.
“He's here,” she said. “And with others.” Slowly she cracked the door open so they could hear the conversation better.
“He's talking nonsense, ser,” said one of the guards. “I don't think he's a threat to us anymore.”
“Really, you think so?” Howe said with content. “Maybe I should ask the person here who actually knows what they're talking about. Droden?”
“He's still a threat, ser,” said Droden. Zelda could see through the crack the rustling of his mage robes. “He's a templar, and is going through lyrium withdrawal now. He may sound like he's speaking nonsense, but to the right ear, it would be the truth.”
“It is nonsense,” the guard protested. “He's just been asking for his sister, is all. He has no idea where he is, and he keeps babbling about how he failed his duty and how his sister has made a much better bann than he ever could.”
“I still disagree,” said the mage. “You need to dispose of him, my lord, and I suggest you allow me to do it.”
“Is this revenge for what the templars did to you in the tower?” Zelda could hear the smile behind Howe's words.
“Maybe.”
“Then go right ahead. And don't worry about Bann Alfstanna's retaliation if she ever finds out. She has no power, or at least compared to mine. I have three strong armies against her meager one.”
“I don't worry about beings lower than me,” said Droden.
“But you should worry about me!” Zelda burst the door open. She stood straight in the frame, eyes cold and hard as they flicked around the room, counting all the bodies before finally settling on Howe.
Howe stared back at her, unsurprised at her appearance. “Well, look here. Bryce Cousland’s little spitfire, all grown up and still playing the man. I never thought you’d be fool enough to turn up here. But then I never thought you’d live, either.”
“Glad to know I disappointed you, Howe, and it won't be the last time.”
Howe snorted out a laugh as he crossed his arms and fully faced her. “Are you still going on about your family? Does the fact I was so easily able to murder everyone except you make you want to kill me? You aren't the first to give me such threats.”
“Why did you do it? You called my father friend, he thought you were his best friend! I don't understand.”
“There's nothing to understand,” Howe scolded. “I used to call Bryce a friend, but not after he betrayed his country. Working with those Orlesian bastards. We fought together against those monsters, but then he goes and befriends them. It was the act of a betrayer, and I hated him for it. Unfortunately, it wasn't until now when I saw the opportunity to strike, to make him pay for betraying his country.”
“So this is all because of my father's dealings with Orlais?” Zelda exclaimed. “You hated him because he was trying to reconnect our two countries?”
“So much more than that,” said Howe. “Your father did many things that pointed to betrayal, such as many of his trips to Orlais. He was even in legion with Cailan dumping Anora to marry Celene. That would have been a most heinous crime, don't you think?”
“What are you talking about? I never heard of this!”
“Of course you wouldn't. Why would he tell you something like that? But that doesn't matter anymore because it's not going to happen with Cailan dead, now is it?”
“So you lied the whole time, then.” Zelda's face fell as she realized the truth. “You really weren't going to have either of your sons marry me or anything like that, were you?”
Howe laughed out loud. “I knew you were smart. Did you really think I was going to have my sons mate with the offspring of that betrayer? I think not.”
“Stop calling my father that,” Zelda said narrowing her eyes.
“Would you like to know how they died? I made your mother kiss my feet, your father watching as he bleed all over the floor. She did it because I said I would spare him. She pleaded for me to take her life instead of his, while he whined the opposite. It was a pathetic plea for both of them, showing their weakness. I sleet his throat first, then hers, smiling all the while.”
Zelda growled, hearing how her parents had died and how the mad man before her had betrayed them.
“You do realize there is nothing you can do, right?” said Howe. “This Landsmeet is a farce. It'll do no good, you can't win. The nobility will never put that whelp on the throne, no matter how hard you coerce. Loghain will win with me by his side and you all will die.”
“Then allow me the pleasure of stopping you now,” said Zelda, her eyes becoming more hard. “It'll be just you and me.”
“There it is. Right there!” Howe growled, his mood slightly changing. “That damned look in the eye that marked every Cousland success that held me back. It would appear that you have made something of yourself after all. Your father would have been proud. I, on the other hand, want you dead more than ever.”
Howe didn't give the command, but his men around him reacted, grabbing their weapons and attacking. Howe went straight for Zelda, smashing his axe and dagger against her shield. Zelda pushed him off, her strength nearly equal to his, but his speed made her go on the defense. He moved quick and fast, striking at her from one side then the next. She was unable to attack with Silverbrand, instead having to block all his blows with her shield and being forced back.
The others were fighting around her, taking care of the guards. The mage had disappeared into a corner. There was also another man, huddled in another corner naked, watching the fight before his eyes. He was haggard looking and frightened. This made Zelda's anger boil as she saw him, what Howe had done, what Howe was going to do.
Zelda tried to strike with all her force, but missed. Something cold then seemed to surround her, draining her of strength. Howe took the advantage and struck her in the side with his dagger. His axe would have taken off her head, but Zelda ducked it just in time. The sting from his dagger was making her shield arm weaker. The shield of Highever was beginning to feel heavy in her hand. If she didn't end this soon, she felt he would. She stood back from him, breathing deeply.
“What's wrong, Zelda?” Howe asked, a wicked half-smile crept up his face. “I thought you were a warrior?”
Zelda stared at him, noticing he wasn't tired at all, yet she was more tired than she should have been. She didn't know what was going on, only that something didn't feel right. The coldness on her skin didn't seem to vanish, even from the heat of battle. She looked at Silverbrand, the icy coating gleamed in the torchlight, but it wasn't as thick as it usually was. This wasn't her, this wasn't how she fought, that's not what the ice represented. Her father had said it, that's why he had given her the runestone. She had been fighting with anger, fighting like Arawin with her need for revenge, but that's not what she needed. She needed to keep her cool, needed to assess the situation and figure the best way to take him down.
A cry from across the room brought her attention to it but only for a brief second before she had to go on the defense again. Howe struck at her again and again, but Zelda was more ready, taking each blow. The split second she had looked told her what she needed to know. The guard who had cried out had died from the mage draining his life away in order to fuel his spells. It was these spells he was also using on her, and he was also rejuvenating Howe.
Arawin, take the mage out!
Already on it.
Arawin dispatched of her current opponent then ran at the mage. The mage spotted her and pointed his staff, magic flowed from it, shooting straight toward her. It missed though as an arrow embedded itself in his shoulder, making him lose his concentration. He went to attack again, but it was too late, Arawin was already upon him. She swung both blades in front of her. Fang and Dar'Misaan crossed, flame and lightning merging as they split through the mage's robes, cutting him straight across. He dropped his staff and blood spurted from his mouth as he fell to the ground.
It finally gave Zelda her chance, Howe was no longer protected by the mage. She let him strike again before making her move. She pushed forward, slamming his chest with her shield. Howe staggered back, but crossed his weapons to block her swing. It didn't matter as Zelda had him right where she needed him. Pushing forward more, she swung her shield before striking out with Silverbrand. Howe blocked her shield but was too slow to stop her blade. The blade cut right into his side, making him drop his axe and fall to his knees. Zelda pinned him down and glared mercilessly at him.
“Maker spit on you,” he said, eyes like daggers into hers. “I deserved more.”
“Yes, you do deserve more,” said Zelda. “You should really suffer for your crimes, suffer for what you did to my family and home. Death will not be enough!”
“You don't have the guts,” he said spitting blood on her boots. “You will never accomplish anything.”
Zelda could no longer take it. With a cry she jammed Silverbrand into his skull. Howe jerked as the ice from the blade crystallized around his head, encasing it completely. With another, louder cry, Zelda ripped the blade from his head and swung it around. The blade collided and Howe's head shattered with pieces of his frozen flesh scattering about the room.

Paraphrasing from Dragon Age: Origins
- 67
- 68
- 69
You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.You need to be logged in to leave a review for this story.
Report Story

Blood Bond