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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
- 74
- 75
- 76
Choice

When they finally reached Redcliffe, they did not come back to the village they hoped they would. They could see smoke rising up from below the cliff, but it was too much and black. As they descended the stairs, they began to see the devastation: over-turned carts, buildings riddled with flame, dead bodies littering the ground, and the feel of taint everywhere. The darkspawn had finally claimed Redcliffe.
Zelda and Arawin ran forward, going across the small stone bridge to find the gate to the larger bridge broken and lying in a heap. They could feel a large amount of darkspawn down in the village, as well as ahead of them at the castle.
“This isn't good,” said Zelda. “Where is Eamon? Where is everyone else?”
“Do you think they all made it to the castle?” Arawin asked.
“That's where they'd be if there are any survives,” said Alistair. “If we go across the bridge, then we'll know.”
They were about ready to head across when they heard a scream coming from the village. They saw a young man running up the ramp with several darkspawn right behind him. “Help me, please!” he yelled.
Leliana and Arawin stepped up, taking out their bows and taking down most of the darkspawn with single shots. Zelda plummeted down the ramp, smashing into a hurlock. The darkspawn fell to it's back and Zelda plunged Silverbrand straight into it's skull. She then ripped it out and spun, taking off the head of the genlock racing over to her.
“Oh, thank the Maker you guys came just now,” the man said breathing heavily. “I thought those darkspawn had me for sure.”
“Tomas?” Zelda said as she sheathed Silverbrand. “What were you doing down there? And what happened here?”
“The darkspawn, they came out of no where!” Tomas exclaimed. “They fell upon us like the plague. We barely had times to evacuate to the castle. I got stuck because I had to go back to get my grandfather's ring.”
“You braved darkspawn for a ring?” Morrigan asked.
“It's an old family heirloom. I know it's probably worthless, but I just couldn't let those creatures get their filthy hands on it.”
“Well you're safe now,” said Zelda. “So everyone is at the castle? Is Eamon there as well?”
“Yeah, he got here before the darkspawn did. He was the one that sent the knights to make sure all the villagers could get to the castle. It was complete chaos.”
“Well come with us,” said Alistair. “We were just about ready to head to the castle.”
“I think it would be safer to travel with you than alone.”
They began their trek across the bridge once more, running faster when they saw smoke coming from the castle just as village. It was located more towards the front, telling them the darkspawn had not yet penetrated the door. Everyone pulled out their weapons when they reached the gate as darkspawn stood battling with soldiers on the front steps. Zelda and Arawin took the lead, running side-by-side as they plowed into a group of darkspawn. Zelda slammed into them with her shield, staggering them about. Arawin then went in for the kill, slicing Fang and Dar'Misaan across throats and abdomens, taking them down with single stokes.
It didn't take them long to take all the darkspawn down before a roar behind them brought their attention to the ogre charging across the bridge and straight for the door. Neither of them had time to stop it or even wanted to. It plowed forward, making everyone jump out of it's way. The ogre placed it's head down, horns pointing vertical as it collided with the door. There was a loud bang followed by splintering and soon the door burst open in a shower of wood shards. More darkspawn came running across the bridge, crying viciously as they saw the way was now open.
Arawin and Zelda were about ready to go after the ogre first as it tried to claw it's way through the broken door frame. There were cries from within the castle, but as Zelda and Arawin got closer, they noticed the cries were charges.
“Push them back men, now!”
The ogre stumbled backwards as many small, armor-clad bodies flooded out the castle. They attacked it with vigor and rage as they forced the ogre down the steps.
“Dwarves?” Zelda cried. “When did they get here?”
“I don't know,” said Arawin. “But if they're here then I'll give you one guess to who is giving the orders.”
On cue, Sora popped out of the castle, leaping into the air and smashing her axe down on a genlock. “Keep going men, we've got them on the run now!”
Sora ran down the stairs straight toward the ogre. It swatted at her but missed as she rolled to the ground and right behind it. Sora climbed up it's back then buried her axe into it's shoulder. Using it for support, she then wrapped her arm around the ogre's throat and sliced it open with her dagger. The ogre staggered before falling forward.
“Right, that should do it.” Sora jumped off the ogre's back and tore her axe out. “And you still call yourselves Grey Wardens?”
“Ha, ha,” Arawin mocked. “We could've taken care of that ogre just fine.”
“And when would that have been? Right after it laid waste to the castle? You're lucky we were behind the door waiting.”
“Speaking of which,” said Zelda. “What are you doing here?”
“You asked us to help fight, right? Well here we are! We may be here earlier than first thought, but that's because Rylen is that good.”
“So he was able to make you commander after all?”
“Yep. I am now officially warrior caste. No longer will this damn tattoo haunt me.”
“Is there anyway you can take it off?”
“Unfortunately, no, but it doesn't matter. Everyone knows who I am now, and if they have a problem with it, then they can take it up with the king. But now that these darkspawn are taken care of, you guys should come inside before another wave hits. Also Eamon wants to see you as soon as possible, and someone by the name of Riorfin, Riordom?”
“Riordan,” Zelda corrected.
“Whatever, all you human names are mouthfuls. But why didn't you tell us there was another Grey Warden running around Ferelden?”
“We didn't know until just recently,” said Arawin. “And how in the world did Riordan get here before we did? I thought he was going to track the horde?”
“I guess he really does travel faster alone.” Zelda looked around the courtyard to make sure everyone was fine before following Sora into the castle. They went straight to the throne room where they found Eamon, Teagan, Riordan and Rylen waiting for them by the fire.
“Wardens, you made it!” said Eamon. “Thank the Maker.”
“And thank the Ancestors you're not hurt, love,” Rylen said as he went and met Sora half way.
“Are you doubting me already?” she glared.
“Of course not! It's just, this is your first time on the surface. How are you feeling?”
“Better, although I still get a little sick when I go outside. But not this time since I was more focused on killing the darkspawn these so-called 'Grey Wardens' couldn't take care of.”
“Ah, what's wrong, little dwarf,” Arawin teased. “Can't take that big sky up there? You know if you close your eyes and stand in one place long enough, then you'll start to feel yourself falling up.”
“That's not true!”
“Really, you wanna bet? Or are you scared?”
“I'm not scared of anything! Come on, elf!”
“No,” Zelda said stopping them. “We don't have time for your little games right now. We need to discuss the situation first.” She turned her attention to Eamon. “What's going on?”
“Lots,” said the arl. “I think it would be best to allow Rylen to explain himself first.”
Rylen made his way back to the fire. “After you guys left I was able to deal with the Assembly, forcing them to finally work together. I commanded that they send as much troops as possible to the surface without leaving Orzammar totally defenseless. I also allowed a temporary lift on all the castes, which would allow even casteless to bare arms and join the armies on the surface. You can imagine how well that went, but we needed all the men we could get. More dwarves are coming, but for the moment, the ones I brought here will do.”
“What I want to know,” said Zelda. “Is how you got here so fast, and why you are here, Rylen?”
“Me? I'm here because I'm not going to be the type of king that just sits back and lets others fight a war for him. Yes, it might be dangerous, and my death will put the Assembly in another tizzy, but I'll risk it to make sure my men and country are safe.”
“But the Assembly could do bad things while you're gone.”
“They could do bad things while I'm there as well. We dwarves are a cut-throat bunch, don't think I don't know that, but it's still the same. It's my duty as king to make sure any threat to my people is wiped out clean before I can rest.”
“Which means he'll never rest,” said Sora.
“A king's job is never done.”
“Uh, please don't remind me,” Alistair moaned.
“Ah yes, I nearly forgot,” said Riordan. “Congratulations, your Majesty.” Riordan bowed to him, making Alistair stiffen.
“Please don't. Not yet at least.”
“And is it true that I heard the lovely Lady Zelda will be our next queen?” Eamon asked.
“It is true,” Zelda blushed.
“That is great news. I don't think I could have picked two finer people to lead Ferelden out of this Blight.”
“Speaking of which...” said Arawin.
“Yes. Riordan?”
“After I left Denerim,” Riordan started. “I went and found the horde, to find indeed that this is a Blight. The archdemon has shown itself, and is at the head of the horde. When I got close enough to 'listen in', it was revealed to me where they were heading. I'm afraid that the archdemon is leading his army to Denerim. They will reach it in about three days.”
“What! But we were just there!” Arawin exclaimed. “Why did we leave?”
“We didn't have this information at the time,” said Eamon. “If we did, then we would have stayed, but unfortunately at the moment, we were unable to determine where the horde was going.”
“But what about the darkspawn that attacked Redcliffe?” Zelda asked.
“Just a small group that broke off from the main horde,” said Riordan. “There are several more I'm sure breaking off and attacking the villages and towns on the way to Denerim.”
“Can we reach Denerim in time?” asked Zelda. “I mean if we left right now?”
“I'm afraid not,” said Eamon. “The darkspawn have at least a day on us, even if we did leave now. Plus we would be unprepared. My men will need to be organized which will take until at least tomorrow morning.”
“The same with my men,” Rylen stated. “Plus there should be more coming. I have scouts stationed at the entrance to make sure.”
“Entrance? Entrance to what?” Arawin asked.
“The Deep Roads, of course! Thanks to Oghren's old maps, I was able to find an entrance just north of Redcliffe. It's one of the reasons why I was able to get here so fast. Lost a few good men along the way, but it was less than if we went over the mountain.”
“Well that's convenient. Why didn't we use that on the way back?”
“So then what is the plan?” said Zelda. “We leave immediately tomorrow morning for Denerim? Then we fight and kill the archdemon?”
“That is exactly it,” Riordan nodded. “It is now or never. If the archdemon is not defeated there, then Ferelden will be doomed.”
“So no pressure, then,” said Arawin. “Just one question: How does one kill an archdemon?”
“I was wondering that myself,” said Alistair.
“Yeah, that is something I've been wanting to know,” Zelda added.
Riordan looked to all three of them. “Then... you don't know? Of course not. You are all new recruits. It's something not to be expected of you.”
“So I assume killing the archdemon isn't like killing any other darkspawn?” Arawin asked.
“I will have to explain it to the three of you in private.”
“That doesn't sound good.”
“In the mean time,” Eamon went on. “I will send out word to all my men to be ready by morning. We will then march to Denerim, and face the darkspawn head on.”
“And I shall do the same,” said Rylen.
“So go and get some rest, my friends. I already had the servants prepare your beds.”
Bowing their respects to one another, the meeting disbanded and Zelda, Arawin, and Alistair stepped down from the fireplace to their companions.
“You all heard that, right?” Zelda asked. Everyone nodded their heads. “Good, cause this is where it all comes together. Now let's see, the dwarves are already here with more coming, so we don't have to worry about that. Wynne, I'm going to need you to scry the tower and tell First Enchanter Irving and Esumi to get all the mages ready to leave as soon as possible, tomorrow morning if they can manage.”
“I'm sure they can,” said Wynne. “And I will go and do that right now.”
“Arawin, do you have any way of contacting the Dalish?”
“Right here!” Arawin pulled out the little golden sparrow from her pack and presented it. “All I have to do is tell it where to meet and when and it should fly off and find the clan to tell them.”
“Alright, you go ahead and do that.”
“On it. Come on, Zev.”
“Oh, and Arawin, when you're done, meet Alistair and I in front of Riordan's room so we can have that talk with him.”
“I know, I know,” Arawin waved off as she and Zevran made their way out of the throne room.
With everything settled, everyone then went their separate ways.
***
“So, you're going to have a secret meeting without me?” Zevran teased as he and Arawin made their way out to the courtyard.
“Grey Warden business,” Arawin said ignoring him. “If it's really important, then I'll tell you.”
“I don't doubt that you will. I'm just curious to know how it is you kill an archdemon.”
“Me too.” They stopped on top of the stairs and Arawin took the tiny golden bird and placed it in the palm of her hand. Putting it close to her lips, she whispered Denerim and tomorrow. The bird then began to move, it's little wings flickering faster than a normal bird's would. It then leaped from her palm and took off into the air, leaving a golden streak in the sky. Arawin soon lost it in the colors of the setting sun. “Do you think they're still in the Brecilian Forest?” she asked after a long pause.
“They may not be in the same place we left them, but I believe they are.”
“If that's the case, and they leave in the morning as well, that means they'll get to Denerim before we do.” Arawin looked over at Zevran with worry. “Maybe I should have told them another time.”
Zevran shook his head. “Lisha won't be that stupid. I'm sure they know where the bird came from, and will probably know more than what you whispered. The Dalish will not just run into battle. You don't need to worry.”
“I guess not. I'm just... Anyway, we need to get back inside and I need to see what Riordan is going to say.” They went back inside the castle and Zevran accompanied her until they came to the room they would be sharing. “Will you wait up for me?” Araiwn asked.
“Do you really think I wouldn't?” Zevran said kissing her.
“It shouldn't take that long, I hope.”
“I'll wait as long as I need to.” He kissed her once more before slipping into the room where Kunjo barked and jumped off the bed to greet him. Arawin then made her way down the hall, all the way to the end where Zelda and Alistair were waiting for her in front of Riordan's door.
“There you are,” said Alistair. “Are you ready?”
“Not really,” Arawin sighed. “But let's go.”
When they entered, they found Riordan standing in front of the small hearth. A fire was already burning within and he turned around when he sensed them coming. “You three are here, good. There is much we need to discuss.” He went and shut the door behind them before addressing them again. “Please know, I assumed you had already been told. Otherwise, I would have told you this when you freed me in Denerim. I am sorry.”
“It's okay, Riordan,” said Zelda. “There was actually a lot of things we were never told because of what happened.”
“But what are you apologizing for?” Alistair asked.
Riordan considered for a moment, seeming unsure on how to tell them. “Tell me, have you ever wondered why the Grey Wardens are needed to defeat the darkspawn?”
“I thought it was because of our awesome skills,” Arawin answered. “Why else would certain recruits be picked over others?”
“No, that's not really it, although our skills do help.”
“It's because of the taint in us, isn't it?” said Zelda.
Riordan nodded. “That is exactly what it involves. The archdemon may be slain as any other darkspawn, by any man, but should any other than a Grey Warden do the slaying, it will not be enough.”
“Not enough?” Arawin said surprised. “How is it not enough? When it's dead, it's dead, right?”
“No. A darkspawn is an empty, soulless vessel. When the archdemon is slain by a regular man, it's soul will travel to the nearest darkspawn and take control. The darkspawn will then contort and change into the new archdemon and the process will start all over again. It's one of the reasons why the first Blight took so long to defeat and it wasn't until the second Blight did we finally realize what was happening. You see, if it is a Grey Warden who slays the archdemon, then the pattern will cease, and the Blight will truly be ended.”
“Okay, that doesn't sound all that bad,” said Arawin.
“I said a darkspawn is an empty, soulless vessel, but a Grey Warden is not. When slain, the archdemon's soul will travel through the taint to the Grey Warden, and once there, will be destroyed.”
“And... what happens to the Grey Warden?” Zelda asked slowly.
“It's a sacrifice,” Riordan said with remorse. “One not taken with haste.”
“Meaning... the Grey Warden who kills the archdemon... dies?” Alistair said remorseful.
“It's the only way to defeat the Blight.”
There was silence in the room as the three took in the new information. Zelda and Arawin felt each others fear as well as something else that passed through them.
“What... what about us?” Zelda asked breaking the silence.
“What do you mean?” said Riordan. “If you are thinking-”
“No, Arawin and I. We're... we're blood bonded.”
Riordan looked from both Zelda to Arawin with shock. “You mean you both drank of the same blood?”
“Yes.”
Riordan sighed heavily. “I thought I sensed something different about the two of you, but I couldn't be for sure. Duncan should have never done that. It is against the Grey Warden ethics. He could have lost his post.”
“What, why? It wasn't his fault. He had no choice.”
“Yeah, there was an incident at our Joining,” Arawin added. “One of our fellow recruits was trying to get away so he pulled out his sword on Duncan. Duncan fought back and during their struggle some of the chalices were destroyed, leaving only one for me and Zelda.”
Riordan considered their story. “Perhaps he didn't have a choice, but it is still forbidden. Blood bonds are not seen in the best of light. There have only been a few of them in our history, and they have all ended in tragedy. The bond usually drives the two connected insane, and they either end up killing each other or themselves.”
“Well we almost did,” Arawin laughed. “We were at each others throats so many times, I'm surprised we lasted this long.”
“I'm surprised as well,” said Riordan. “Because I don't think I've ever heard of a bonded pair lasting as long as you two have, or having such good control. Well, I guess there is one other pair.”
“Really? Who?”
“Garahel and Anton. They were two best friends, blood bonded, but it was something not well known, not even amongst the Wardens. It's another reason why separating the chalices is done.”
“So... what happened?”
“During the time of the Fourth Blight, as Garahel was uniting Thedas against the archdemon, Andoral, Anton was right beside him. He was a human, and no one really knows a lot about him, such as how the two met, if they were childhood friends, or if they first met during the Joining. All that's known is that Anton and Garahel seemed to be inseparable, not even at the end.
“Before the battle of Ayesleigh, Anton was injured and unable to accompany his friend into battle. During the battle, the healer who was with him reported that he seemed to be asleep, but he would grimace occasionally as if fighting, and shouted. Then, at the time Garahel supposedly slew Andoral, Anton began to glow. He cried with pain, and when the light died, he was dead.”
“So you're saying...” said Zelda. “That if Arawin kills Urthemiel, then I will die as well?”
“Or the other way around,” Riordan nodded. “Because of your bond, the archdemon's soul will pass to both of you, no matter how far apart you are. Anton was miles away when it happened, and the healer swore he did not die from his injuries.”
Both Arawin and Zelda looked down to the floor. Zelda could feel Alistair right beside her, rubbing her shoulder. “It really is a curse,” she said softly.
“And here I thought we were starting to like it,” Arawin tried to humor.
“It is a horrible thing, but neither of you will be making the final blow,” said Riordan making them look back up at him. “I will be the one to do that.”
“But Riordan...” Zelda protested.
Riordan lifted his hand to stop her. “During such times it is tradition for the eldest Grey Warden to choose who will make the sacrifice. Because I am the eldest and the taint won't spare me much longer, I shall be the one to do it. Besides, the three of you will have responsibilities when this Blight is over. Alistair and Zelda will rule Ferelden as king and queen and Arawin, you will be in charge of reorganizing the Wardens as warden-commander.”
“Really?” Arawin said surprised. “You sure you want to give that position to an elf?”
“When I look at you, Arawin, I don't see just an elf, I see a very intelligent and powerful woman that knows what she needs to do. You will be a good leader, and your recruits will see that as well.”
“I'm... honored.” Arawin bowed to him. “Thank you.”
“You are welcome.”
You know the only reason he did that was because you're all that's left.
Hey, you heard what he said!
Yeah, and it's true, but with Alistair becoming king, and me having to help him, there really isn't anyone else to take charge of the Wardens.
I don't care, I'm still honored.
Good.
“Well enough of this,” Riordan breathed. “I suggest you three go and get some rest. Tomorrow is going to be a long day and so are the ones to come.”
“Very much so,” Alistair sighed. He looked to Zelda and Arawin. Even though he didn't share a bond with them, at that point they all knew what each other was feeling.
***
The three of them walked out solemnly. It was cruel news they had just heard, and neither one of them was sure they would be able to get any sleep after hearing it. They stayed silent as they walked down the hall, all of them staring at the ground.
“So you are back, then?” Morrigan's voice made them all stop suddenly and look up. She was standing just outside her room, apparently waiting for them.
“Um, what do you want, Morrigan?” Arawin asked.
“I would just like a moment of your time, if I could,” she said looking between Arawin and Zelda. “Just the two of you.”
“And what could you possibly say that doesn't involve me?” said Alistair.
“You will know in good time. But Arawin, Zelda, a moment?” Morrigan didn't wait for their answer, instead slipping into her room.
Both Arawin and Zelda sighed at the same time.
“Go ahead, Alistair, I'll be right there.”
“Are you sure?”
“I don't know what she wants, but I promise it won't take long.”
“Alright, I'll wait for you.” Alistair kissed her before disappearing into the bedroom across the hall. When he shut the door, Zelda and Arawin made their way into Morrigan's bedroom.
“You two have questions, I'm sure,” Morrigan said once her own door was shut.
“Well yeah, what do you want, Morrigan?” said Arawin again.
“What I want is to give you hope. The both of you look so gloomy, and I know why. I know what Riordan told you. I know what happens when an archdemon is killed by a Grey Warden, and that Grey Warden could be the both of you.”
“So you know, big deal,” said Zelda. “The fact you know doesn't really surprise me. After all, your mother did know about the bond, and I'm sure anything else she told you about. So what's your point?”
“My point is that does not need to be. Have you ever wondered why my mother insisted you have me come with you?”
“I thought it was payment for her saving our lives.”
“That, yes, but it was also so I could offer you this: a way out. A way to kill the archdemon and not die.”
“Well if that's the case, then why didn't you tell us sooner?” said Arawin.
“I didn't because it involves something you won't like.” Morrigan kept her gaze focused on Zelda.
“What's the offer?” Zelda asked timid.
“A ritual... performed on the eve of battle, in the dark of night.”
“And why would I not like it?”
“Because it involves Alistair... laying here with me.”
Zelda went pale.
“It is a ritual of old magic,” Morrigan continued. “One in which a child will be conceived within me. The child will have the taint, and will serve as a beacon to beckon the archdemon's soul. At this early stage, the child can absorb that soul and not perish. The archdemon is still destroyed, with no Grey Warden dying in the process.”
Zelda had stayed perfectly still through Morrigan's explanation. “You want to do what with Alistair?”
“Did you not hear a word she said?” Arawin asked, somewhat stunned by Zelda's behavior.
“I know how it may sound, Zelda,” said Morrigan. “But I assure you it's what needs to be done.”
Zelda stared at the witch, eyes narrowed. “No. Absolutely not!”
“You haven't even thought about it yet. Think of what I offer you. It is a way for you to slay the archdemon and live, something no other Grey Warden could accomplish. I am giving you life over death, and what I get in return is a child with the soul of an Old God.”
“I said no!” Zelda burst.
“Zelda?” Arawin stood staring at the human perplexed. She had never seen nor felt Zelda so angry before. The fire now coming from her instead of the other way around. Arawin knew she had to do something in order to cool Zelda down. What Morrigan was proposing was something Arawin was interested in, but she wasn't the one that needed to agree to it. “Calm down, Zelda. We should at least hear Morrigan out first.”
“You're not serious, are you?” Zelda turned on Arawin. “You do know what she's wanting, right?”
“Yeah, a chance for us to live.”
“Yes, I am giving you a choice: live or die,” said Morrigan.
Zelda turned back to the witch. “I understand that, but what I don't understand is why Alistair? Why can't you use Riordan or... or Damien!”
“Pff. First, Riordan is unsuitable. He has been tainted for far too long. I need one that hasn't had the taint running through his veins for a long time. And as for Damien, I'll give you three reasons why he's unsuitable as well. One, he's also been tainted for too long. Two, I think it might be a little difficult for myself to get him to stand at attention long enough to perform the act considering I don't have the proper parts he prefers. And three, even if the first two weren't a problem, the fact he's not even here trumps them all.”
Zelda crossed her arms and looked away from her. Arawin decided to take over the questioning. “So what do you want this child for exactly? You don't want an heir, do you?”
“No, I do not. All I want is to preserve the essence of the Old God trapped within the archdemon. Know that once the soul is separated from the taint, it will no longer be evil and corrupted, but the soul of the god it used to be. When this is finished and the archdemon slain, then all I ask is you let me go, and never follow. I will go and raise the child as I wish, and none of you will ever see me again.”
This Arawin was hurt by as she considered Morrigan a good friend. “This is somewhat hard, Morrigan. I mean, it's a big decision, and I'm not really the one that can decide it.”
“Oh, so you're going to make me decide it?” Zelda scolded. “I already said no! And it's final.” She then stormed out of the room, leaving Arawin and Morrigan alone.
“I suggest you go and talk some sense into her,” said Morrigan. “Are you really willing to die because of her stubbornness?”
“No, but...”
“No matter what, I will leave, and I can either leave now or later. The choice will be hers.”
“Morrigan...” Arawin bite her lower lip. “I'll go talk to her. I'll try and convince her to let you do this, but... I can't really promise anything. This is really hard for her, because she can't have any children with Alistair. Hearing that you want to have one with him, even if it's not really him you want, is just a lot to take.”
“That I suppose is true,” said Morrigan. “And I am sorry I have to do it this way. If there was another way, I would have gone with that instead, but there isn't.”
Arawin nodded. “How about this: I'll go and talk to her, and you promise to stay no matter what she decides.”
Morrigan raised an eyebrow. “You just said you promise nothing. She may still say no. What reason is there for me to stay if she doesn't allow this?”
“We need you, Morrigan,” Arawin begged. “In the past year we've traveled together, you have become a close friend to me. I don't know how we could've done everything without you.”
“You have become a close friend to me as well, Arawin. I know at times I probably don't deserve your friendship, but I do appreciate it.”
“So please, Morrigan, I will try my hardest to make Zelda see what needs to be done, because I don't feel like dying, not after just now finding what I really want in life. But if I can't, please, please stay and help us anyway. We're going to need everyone, including you, to defeat the darkspawn.” Arawin stared at Morrigan with pleading eyes, hoping the witch wasn't going to abandon them so soon.
Morrigan breathed in deeply before finally speaking. “Because you are a friend I don't deserve, I shall stay no matter what Zelda decides. If I am denied, then so be it. I will not abandon you, even if she chooses death.”
“Thank you, Morrigan. I will go speak to her now, and I will try my best.”
“Please do.”
Arawin then left, determined to make Zelda understand.
***
Zelda was back where she felt most comfortable. It was night now, with hardly a cloud in the sky. The stars shined, reflecting in the lake below, connecting sky and ground as one. There was no wind, making the lake still and flat. Zelda stood at the edge of the balcony looking out, staring at the stars and trying not to think of what had just occurred, but it was pointless as she felt Arawin approach.
“You won't convince me,” she said without turning around. “I know that's why you came here.”
“Zelda, what do you expect?” said Arawin. “What are you hoping for?”
“Why does Morrigan think we're going to be the one that kills the archdemon? Riordan said he would do it.”
“But Riordan's only one man. He may be older and more experienced than us, but do you really think he'll be able to do it all by himself? Are you really relying on that?” Arawin joined her at the edge and leaned over the railing. “Look, I know how you're feeling, because I feel the same way. You'll never be able to have a real family, and you think Morrigan is doing this as some cruel joke, but she's not. She only wants the soul of the Old God, she doesn't care who can give it to her, just as long as she gets it.”
“So then have Riordan give it to her.”
“She told you why that can't be.”
Zelda sighed. “I don't see how you can feel the same way. You have a better chance with Zevran than I do with Alistair.”
“You really think?” Arawin mused. “With how many times Zevran and me have been together, I'd probably be having a litter if I wasn't tainted. I promised my father I'd give him grandchildren, but now that will never happen. I hate that too, and I never thought I would. It was never something on my mind, but after seeing Valora with child, now it is.” Arawin stared across the lake. “At least he can have the life he wanted with Soris and Valora, and maybe even with Shianni when she gets married.”
Zelda looked down from the sky before turning to Arawin. “So what are we to do, then?”
“Go to Alistair and convince him to do the ritual. It's only one night and once it's over with, once the archdemon is killed, you will never see Morrigan again.”
Zelda gripped the railing, still not happy with the idea. “I don't even know if I could convince him to do it. Would Zevran do it?”
“Of course he would, and not because it would give him a chance to finally sleep with Morrigan. He would do it because it meant I would live. I know Alistair would do the same for you.”
“I don't know,” Zelda said closing her eyes. “I think if that was the case, he would rather kill the archdemon himself. And I fear that's what he might try to do if Riordan should fail.”
“Okay, let's do this,” said Arawin. “Let's take Riordan out of the picture, Damien as well since I know you're thinking about him too. With those two out, it's just the three of us. If Alistair kills the archdemon, he dies, leaving Anora as queen to rule Ferelden. If you or me kill the archdemon...”
“Then we both die.”
“Yeah...”
“Are you prepared to die, Arawin?”
“Not really, but I guess I don't really have a choice. I don't have to die from the archdemon. I could be killed from a regular darkspawn. So could you, so could anyone.”
Zelda stared back at the stars, her mind whirling with all the possibilities that could occur from the battle they were about to face. “Will I have your support?”
“You'll have my support no matter what you choose, Zelda. In any event, I will gladly run by your side and together we will strike the archdemon down as one. We may not have started this adventure as friends, but now I consider you one. My best friend, my bonded sister. We're going to be stuck together for a long time, why try and separate now?”
“I'm glad to hear it, Arawin. I feel the same way. But... this decision. I still don't know yet.”
“Then think about it some more. It's a though one, I know. You already know how I feel, but I'll support you in anyway you choose. Just make sure you choose something, or else I will come back to find you.”
“Thank you, Arawin. I'm glad I have your support.”
Arawin sighed and shook her head as she left Zelda on the balcony. She wasn't sure what Zelda would choose, and for the first time, felt afraid of the answer.
***
Arawin walked into her room to find Zevran already on the bed waiting for her.
“Ah, there you... are.” Zevran was excited to see her, but after seeing the sad expression on her face, he sat up. “Arawin, is everything all right?”
“Yeah. Everything's... fine.” Arawin's expression didn't change.
“No it's not. Can you tell me?”
Making her way over to the bed, Arawin sat next to him and began taking off her armor. “Not really. It's... Grey Warden stuff. Even if I could, I don't even know if I want to tell you.” Zevran already knew a lot, more than he should about Grey Wardens. She could have told him everything, but she felt this was a secret that he might not even be able to take.
“I understand.” But Arawin could hear the regret in his voice.
“Thank you,” she whispered.
She crawled into the bed, cuddling up to him, forming her body to his. Her back to his chest, Zevran wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close. Lovingly he stroked her arm as he buried his face in her neck. He felt her trembling.
“Zevran,” Arawin said softly.
“Sí, Amora?”
“Would you... would you teach me how to be an assassin?”
“I'll teach you anything you want to know, Amora. How to be an assassin, how to make poisons. I can even teach you how to take poisons into your body so you can built immunity. Whatever you desire.”
“I'd like that.”
Zevran squeezed her closer when he heard the tears come, when he felt her trembles become sobs. He didn't ask why, he just held her, stroking her arm, her waist, her back, telling her he was there, that he wasn't going anywhere. He didn't need to ask, he understood enough. Whatever they had discussed, whatever had been planned, it was something that was going to change their lives, for better or worse, and he would learn in time.
***
Zelda stood in the hallway, eyes forward and fixed on the wall ahead of her. To her right was the room she and Alistair shared. She knew he was in there waiting for her. She wanted to see him, to hold him and have him hold her. She wanted to be close, to feel his protective arms around her, to pretend that what was to come to only be a dream. But it wasn't a dream, it was a nightmare she felt she couldn't wake from.
On her left was Morrigan's room where she knew the witch was waiting for her as well. She didn't understand it. She didn't even want to think about it. If it had been anything else, someone else, using blood magic, summoning demons, she would have said yes immediately. But it wasn't that simple.
Out of all of them why did it have to be Alistair? Zelda could understand why Riordan was unsuitable, but why wasn't Damien? She wanted to understand it, she wanted to know why it had to be him. Morrigan had explained it to her, that he hadn't been tainted for very long, but was that really the reason? Was that really why Morrigan wanted him?
Zelda clenched her fists thinking about it. Of course Morrigan wanted him. Alistair was going to be king after all. Having an heir to the throne would give her a great advantage. Yet something inside Zelda told her this wasn't the reason. Morrigan only wanted the soul of the Old God, that was all. She probably didn't care who could give it to her, just as long as she received the soul.
Zelda unclenched her fists and closed her eyes. It didn't help to keep the tears back. This decision was too hard. It was the choice to either live or die, but it didn't seem to matter which one she chose. They could live or they could die from either one.
She opened her tear drenched eyes and looked to the right. If she went to Alistair then she knew she would ask him to do this. It would be hard, but she knew she wouldn't have a choice. She couldn't just go in there and pretend nothing was going on. Morrigan was waiting and eventually she would perhaps come and find her. And if Morrigan didn't come, then Arawin would. Arawin wasn't going to let her just blow it off. This was too important. Again, it was choose: live or die.
She looked to her left. If she went to Morrigan then she would tell her no, there would be no ritual. The witch would be mad, of course. She said she would leave if she wasn't allowed this opportunity. Zelda wished that she would leave. She wished Morrigan had never been apart of their party. She wished she had told Flemeth no back in the Korcari Wilds. If that had happened, then she wouldn't be in this predicament. She wouldn't be standing in between two doors, one she wanted to go in desperately, the other she wanted to avoid. But she had no choice.
Live or die.
Live or die.
But it wasn't the type of living or dying associated with the battle that was to come. Yet it didn't seem to matter either way. Both of those choices could still happen with or without the ritual. Could she live with herself, knowing another woman was carrying Alistair's child? Would she ever be able to carry a child herself? Would it kill her inside? Zelda absently felt her belly with her hand. Never would Alistair be able to plant anything within her. They were both Grey Wardens. It was an impossible task. Yet could she live with herself if she allowed Alistair to die? If Riordan failed, if Damien failed, then Alistair would not hesitate. He would do it because it was the right thing to do. Because he was going to be king, and he wanted to be a good king, and saving his country from the archdemon would be what a good king would do. Even if it meant sacrificing himself.
Zelda looked down at the floor. Arawin said she would support her no matter what she chose. Go to Morrigan. Go to Alistair. Those were the choices. Live or die. That's what it all came down to.
Zelda took a deep breath and closed her eyes once more.

Paraphrasing from Dragon Age: Origins
- 74
- 75
- 76
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Blood Bond