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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
- 8
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- 10
Ostagar

The trip from Denerim to Ostagar was not a pleasant one. Zelda had hoped to learn more about Arawin on the way, but the elf didn’t seem to want to talk to her. Instead, Arawin talked mostly to Duncan, asking him about the Grey Wardens. He told her things Zelda already knew, such as their history and about the darkspawn. He told her about the previous four Blights, and how he believed this was now the fifth.
“You really think this is a Blight?” asked Arawin. “How does one know such a thing if an archdemon hasn’t even been spotted yet?”
“It is a sense we have, as Grey Wardens,” Duncan explained. “You will learn about it eventually. But, yes, I have sensed the archdemon, but he is not yet here.”
“When do you think he’ll show himself?”
“That is something I don’t know. It could be for awhile.”
To get to Ostagar, Duncan took them down the Imperial Highway. A road that was built by the Tevinter Imperium when it had ruled over Ferelden. Ostagar was once a Tevinter stronghold, used to keep the wild men from the forest from invading the lowlands. The fortress was now in ruins, however, and proved little more than a home for wild creatures, and now, the base for the king’s armies.
As Ostagar came into their view, both Zelda and Arawin were amazed to see the structures. They wondered what it must have looked like in all it’s glory, for the fortress still struck amazement in their hearts. Many of the buildings were crumbling, but they still retained their tall walls and high arches. They came to one such arch, and Arawin gazed up at the high structure, amazed at it’s craftsmanship. Vines hung down, and wild flowers that she had never seen before grew all over the place, giving the gray stone of the arch a rainbow of colors.
Zelda saw the wonder in the elf’s eyes. She smiled, knowing this was probably the first time Arawin had ever left Denerim. Many things on the road had made Arawin react the same way. Zelda had never been this far south herself, and wondered at the amazement of her surroundings as well, but there was one thing that frightened her about the place. Ostagar was right on the edge of the Korcari Wilds. The Wilds were a cursed place filled with death and the undead. Zelda had heard stories about the Korcari Wilds that gave her nightmares as a child, and even now, she did not wish to enter them. Nor did she wish to be so close.
The sounds of clanging plated armor and the heavy footfalls of many armored feet came to Zelda’s ears, causing her to tare her eyes from the arch. She looked down the path and saw coming across the bridge that lead into Ostagar was a full legion of men. The man leading them, Zelda recognized the king.
“Ho there, Duncan!” the king shouted happily as the two groups met at the bridge.
“King Cailan?” said Duncan sounding surprised. “I didn’t expect--”
“A royal welcome?” Cailan chuckled and slapped Duncan on the back. “I was beginning to worry you’d miss all the fun!”
“Not if I could help it, your Majesty,” said Duncan nodding his head to the king in a gesture of respect.
“Then I’ll have the mighty Duncan at my side in battle after all! Glorious!” Cailan held his head up high, looking more proud than anything. When he was done with his thoughts, he turned his attention back to Duncan and the two women. “The other Wardens told me you’ve found some promising recruits. I take it this is them?”
Duncan stepped forward. “Allow me to introduce you, your Majesty.”
“No need to be so formal, Duncan. We’ll be shedding blood together, after all.” Cailan stepped first in front of Zelda. “Ho there, friend. Might I know your name? You are Bryce’s youngest, are you not? I don’t think we’ve ever actually met.”
“Yes, your Majesty. My name is Zelda Cousland.” Zelda bowed to him, crossing her arms in front of her in the Ferelden fashion.
“Your brother has already arrived with Highever’s men, but we're still awaiting your father.”
Zelda swallowed hard and straightened herself. “He’s not coming,” she said. The king looked at her with curiosity, waiting to see what the explanation for her father’s absence was. “He died when our castle was taken.”
“Dead? What do you mean?” Cailan’s eyes went wide with disbelief. “Duncan, do you know anything about this?”
“Teryn Cousland and his wife are dead, your Majesty,” Duncan sighed. “Arl Howe has shown himself a traitor and overtaken Highever Castle. Had we not escaped, he would have killed us and told you any story he wished.”
“I... can scarcely believe it!” cried Cailan in an outrage. “How could he think he would get away with such treachery!” He turned to Zelda. “As soon as we are done here, I will turn my army north and bring Howe to justice. You have my word.”
“Thank you, your Majesty,” Zelda said bowing again.
“No doubt you wish to see your brother. Unfortunately, he and his men are scouting in the Wilds.”
Zelda piqued. She had almost forgotten that Fergus was still alive. That he had not been in the castle at the time of the attack. “When will he return?” she asked eager to see him soon.
“Not until the battle is over, I fear. Until then, we cannot even send word. I apologize, but there is nothing more I can do. All I can suggest is that you vent your grief against the darkspawn for the time being.”
Zelda sighed. “So long as Arl Howe pays, I’ll be happy.”
King Cailan then turned his attention to Arawin. He looked down at the elf, for she was several inches shorter than he was, and smiled. “Hello there. And might I have your name as well?”
“I am Arawin, your Majesty,” she said bowing in the same way that Zelda had. This surprised Zelda a little. She did not expect Arawin to be so respectful to the king. Arawin had shown no such thing to Zelda ever since they met.
“Pleased to meet you,” said Cailan. “The Grey Wardens are desperate to bolster their numbers, and I, for one, am glad to help them. I see you’re an elf, friend. From where do you hail?”
“The city of Denerim,” Arawin answered.
“As do I! Though I’ve not been in the palace for some time. Do you come from the alienage? Tell me, how is it there? My guards all but forbid me going there.”
Arawin cocked her eyebrows as she pondered at the king. “You have no idea how bad it is, do you?”
“You think I care nothing about these things?” said Cailan. “But I do. I suppose trust will only come with proof.”
Then Arawin did something Zelda did not expect. The elf straightened herself. “I killed an arl’s son for raping my cousin,” she said with no hesitation or anything in her voice that sounded as if she regretted it. Instead, she sounded more as if she were proud of her deed.
“You... what?” Cailan’s mouth hung loose from it’s hinge. He stared at her dumbfounded.
“Arawin!” cried Zelda as she stared at the elf. “That is not something you should be telling the king!”
“What?” Arawin heaved. “He asked how things were and I told him. It’s so horrible that we elves have to take measures into our own hands.”
“Your Majesty,” said Duncan stepping in. “I would not have put it so bluntly. There are events in Denerim you should be aware of.”
“So it seems,” said Cailan. “Apparently, there are many things I need to deal with once this Blight is over. I will hear more about this matter later. Things will change once we defeat the darkspawn. In the alienages, and all through Ferelden. For now, we have a war to attend to. Allow me to be the first to welcome you to Ostagar,” he said to both the women.“The Wardens will benefit greatly with both of you in their ranks.”
“We’ll see about that,” said Arawin. “I’m told I can be a pretty big handful.”
The king made his way back to his guards, turning to address the three Grey Wardens one last time. “I’m sorry to cut this short, but I should return to my tent. Loghain waits eagerly to bore me with his strategies.”
“Your uncle sends his greetings,” said Duncan. “And reminds you that Redcliffe forces could be here in less than a week.”
“Ha! Eamon just wants in on the glory. We’ve won three battles against these monsters and tomorrow should be no different.” Cailan had a smug look on his face. He was very proud of the achievements that were accomplished here. Even if they were small.
“I didn’t realize things were going so well,” said Zelda. “It seems the Blight will be over with even before it’s begun.”
“I’m not even sure this is a true Blight,” Cailan said sounding disappointed. He reminded Zelda of a young boy wanting desperately to join his father on the battlefield. To make something of himself. “There are plenty of darkspawn on the field, but alas, we’ve seen no sign of an archdemon.”
“Disappointed, your Majesty?” asked Duncan with a smirk.
“I’d hoped for a war like in the tales!” Cailan became smug again, a wide smile crossing his face. “A king riding with the fabled Grey Wardens against a tainted god!” His smile then faded once more and he appeared sad and childish. “But I suppose this will have to do,” he sighed. “I must go before Loghain sends out a search party. Farewell, Grey Wardens.” King Cailan and his guards marched off, back across the bridge into Ostagar. Duncan, Zelda, and Arawin stayed back, watching them as they disappeared behind the tall ruins.
“What the king said is true,” said Duncan after awhile, breaking the silence. “They’ve won several battles against the darkspawn here.”
“Yet you don’t sound very reassured,” Zelda said seeing the concern in his eyes.
Duncan gestured for them to move forward. They began making their way across the bridge after the king. “Despite the victories so far,” he continued. “The darkspawn horde grows larger with each passing day. By now, they look to outnumber us. I know there is an archdemon behind this. But I cannot ask the king to act solely on my feeling.”
Arawin scuffed and rolled her eyes. “You could if he were not such a fool,” she said with distaste.
“You must not speak of the king so,” said Duncan giving her a stern look. “He is... over-eager, perhaps, but he is also one of the few Grey Warden allies.”
“Yes, Duncan, I apologize,” said Arawin. “But he still acts like a fool.”
Zelda cleared her throat and gazed at Arawin with contempt before she turned to Duncan. “What would you have him do?” she asked.
“Wait for reinforcements,” Duncan said, seeming tired and stressed. “We sent a call out west to the Grey Wardens of Orlais, but it will be many days before they can join us. Our numbers in Ferelden are too few. We must do what we can and look to Teyrn Loghain to make up the difference. To that end, we should proceed with the Joining ritual without delay.”
“Joining?” Arawin said confused.
“Oh yes, I forgot about that,” Zelda sighed.
Duncan stopped them. “Every recruit must go through a secret ritual we call the Joining in order to become a Grey Warden. The ritual is brief, but some preparation is required. We must begin soon.”
“So why weren't we told about this before hand?” Arawin asked.
“It's a secret,” Zelda tried to explain.
“And how do you know about it?”
“I only know a little, and only from my intense studying of the Grey Wardens.”
“So why is it a secret?” Arawin asked Duncan.
Duncan sighed. He obviously wasn’t too keen on telling them about the Joining. But he knew they would have to know at some point. “The Joining is dangerous,” he finally said. “I cannot speak more of it expect to say that you will learn all in good time. Until then, you must trust that what is done is necessary.”
“I guess that’s fair,” said Arawin, but she was determined to figure out what the Joining was, but she figured Duncan wouldn’t say. There was something else on her mind. “Are we the only recruits you have?”
Duncan looked at her and she saw relief on his face that she had not asked more about the Joining. “No,” he said. “There are two other recruits here already. They have been waiting for us to arrive.”
“So then what do you need us to do?” Arawin was eager to be moving on.
“Feel free to explore the camp here as you wish. All I ask is that you do not leave it for the time being. Which includes not going into the army camp.”
“But...” said Zelda interrupting him. “I need to find Fergus, or Ser Nicolas.”
Duncan looked at her with a father’s sincerity. He wanted to help her, but there was no option. “You heard what the king said: He is scouting in the Wilds and beyond contact. Be patient, he will return.”
“I understand.” Zelda hung her head. “But I do wish to be informed the moment of his return.”
“I’m sure the king will not hesitate. Now, there is something that I need the two of you to do. As I said, feel free to explore the camp, but once you're done, there is another Grey Warden in the camp by the name of Alistair. When you are ready, seek him out and tell him it’s time to summon the other recruits. Until then, I have business I must attend to. Your hound can stay with me, Zelda, if she would like. I will be at the Grey Warden tent on the other side of this bridge, should you need to find me for anything.” Duncan bowed and he soon began making his way across the bridge. Zelda and Arawin watched him as he went. Rupee stayed next to Zelda. She looked up and whined to her and licked her hand.
“Go on, girl. Go with Duncan,” said Zelda. “And make sure you listen to him.”
Rupee barked then sprang from her sitting position and ran to where Duncan was. The two women watched their mentor and Rupee make their way to the other side of the bridge before walking through an archway and disappearing behind the stones.
Arawin took in a deep breath and took a step forward. She was ready and determined, but she soon stopped when she noticed Zelda was right behind her. “You know,” she said to the human. “This isn’t the alienage. You don’t have to follow me everywhere I go now.”
“I thought we should stick together is all,” said Zelda. “I still want to get to know you, and from what you told the king, there are some things I would like to ask. If you don’t mind.”
“I do mind, actually,” said Arawin turning on her heels and staring Zelda straight in the eyes. “You have done nothing but bother me ever since we left Denerim. Not leaving me alone for a single second! And now that we are finally in a place where I can roam freely, without an escort, you still think you should tag along? Well, Princess, I don’t think so!”
“Princess? Why are you calling me that?”
“Because I assume by the way you’ve been acting every since we left Denerim that you are more used to living a life of pampering and what not. You’ve been complaining a lot about how hard the ground is, how nasty the food tastes, and how staying up all night to watch the camp is disturbing your beauty sleep.”
Zelda grimaced. “I never said anything about beauty sleep. I just said that I wasn’t used to staying up all night.”
“It’s the same thing to me, Princess.” Arawin waved her off and started walking again.
“Okay, so I admit, I’m not used to such things, but still...,” Zelda said as she raced after Arawin. “We're going to be Grey Wardens together, and I see no reason at all why we can’t get along.”
Arawin grunted, rolling her eyes and slumped forward. Does she ever shut up! “Yes, I get it! You think that we should be friends, well, that’s not going to happen. I don’t make friends with humans.”
“Why not? I know humans and elves don’t necessarily get along, but we are going to be seeing a lot of each other.”
Arawin stopped suddenly, making Zelda have to skid to keep from hitting her. The elf had to hold her anger back, she was getting quite mad at the fact this human would not leave her alone. “Look,” she said trying to keep her voice steady. “You want to know something about me? Fine! Maybe if you know this then you’ll know to leave me alone.” Arawin crossed her arms and glared. “My mother was killed my humans, and not just any ordinary shem. They were nobles. Four drunken noblemen came in the alienage and started trouble. They took... well they took a few children and she was the only one to go after them. The drunk bastards killed her for it too. She died quickly after that.”
“I’m sorry,” said Zelda feeling awful for forcing Arawin to relive such a thing. “I did not know.”
“I didn’t expect you to know,” Arawin growled. “And what made things even better was the fact that the four noblemen weren't even punished! Instead, they somehow were able to blame the whole incident on the alienage itself! We elves had to suffer for my mother’s death. The noblemen didn’t even get a slap on the wrist. Do you see why, now, we can’t be friends? Why I will always hate you?”
“But I had nothing to do with your mother’s death. But I do feel for you.”
“No you don’t,” said Arawin shaking her head. “If you did, then you wouldn’t pester me. In any case, I know that we will more than likely be seeing each other a lot. Being Grey Wardens together, and then fighting the darkspawn here, but if I can help it, afterwards I will be leaving you. Going somewhere else where you won't be. But until then, I have an opportunity to be rid of you now. So please, could you give me that at least?”
Before Zelda could answer, Arawin made her way again. This time Zelda stayed back, and watched as she disappeared behind the stones, going the same way Duncan had gone.
“But I do understand,” Zelda whispered to herself. “I lost my mother as well.”
She stood on the bridge for a moment. Trying to decide what she should do. Exploring the camp did sound interesting, and maybe she could try and locate the other recruits. Then, if she hadn’t found Arawin yet, if the elf even wanted to be found, she would go and find this Alistair Duncan had told them to locate.
Maybe it’s for the best, she thought as she made her way to the arch at the end of the bridge. It was not going to be easy to gain the elf’s trust, but Zelda knew she could do it. She only needed to let Arawin cool herself off and get the alone time she wanted.
As Zelda made her way through the arch, she decided to go the opposite way that Duncan and Arawin had gone. When she came into the camp, she noticed that the whole area was nothing but a large room that had once been a great hall. The ceiling was obviously gone, but pillars that held it up stood high. Crumbling stone walls were used to separate the different areas in the camp. Zelda saw priests of the Chantry standing on wooden pavilions with soldiers kneeling underneath. The priests spoke the Chant of Light, and gave blessings to those who asked for them.
As Zelda made her way around several broken pillars, she saw tents arranged in a circle, their openings facing inward. Two templars stood in front of the tents, standing guard. Zelda knew they were templars by their shining heavy plated armor and their deep purple robes that flowed out from underneath their breastplates, covering their legs. Templars standing guard only meant one thing. The Circle of Magi was here.
Zelda walked over to the tents and peered through them to see several mages sitting on the ground. They had magic flowing around them, all were silent with closed eyes and concentrated looks. This meant they were probably in the Fade. A world that humans and elves, a like, went to when they dreamed, and when they died. Zelda backed up from the tents, not wanting to disturb any of the mages as they, she assumed, were preparing for the battle with the darkspawn. But as she did so, a voice spoke out to her, making her jump with surprise.
“Greetings, young lady,” said the voice. Zelda turned to see an elder woman standing next to a tree. Her hair was short and white, peppered with age. She wore robes the color of the earth, and Zelda knew that she was a mage. Perhaps even a senior enchanter. The mage smiled at Zelda and nodded her head.
“I’m sorry,” said Zelda. “I did not mean to disturb...”
“It is quite all right, dear,” said the mage. “You are Duncan’s newest recruit, are you not? He’s not a man easily impressed. You should be proud. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Wynne, one of the mages summoned by the king.”
Zelda walked to her and faced her proper. “Pleased to meet you,” she said. “My name is Zelda.”
“Well met,” Wynne smiled. “And good luck to you on the battlefield. To us all, in fact.”
“I appreciate your concern. King Cailan thinks the battle will go well.”
“The king must always seem confident. His behavior affects the troops’ morale. He does seem to find his enthusiasm easily, though. Reminds me of a puppy, and I say that with both respect and affection. He is a fine man. To defeat the darkspawn, we have to work together. It’s not an idea everyone seems able to grasp.”
“No, not all of us,” Zelda said looking around the area. She turned back to Wynne. “How did you know I was Duncan’s new recruit?”
Wynne chuckled slightly. “It's not everyday Duncan finds someone worthy of the Grey Wardens. News travels fast around here. When he sent word that not only was he bringing a woman to become a Grey Warden, not one, but two, everyone knew the same day.”
“But there have been women Grey Wardens, right? Why would it be so much of a surprise?”
“There have been women in the Grey Wardens, yes,” said Wynne. “But, from what I understand, there are none in Ferelden right now. You will be the first in a long time. I also figured you were her when I saw Duncan pass by not too long ago. Then I saw you, and the way you were acting. I knew you had to be the recruit. The way you stared at the ruins, like you had never been here before.”
“Did you also happen to see an elf come by?” Zelda asked. “Bright red hair and maybe she looked a little rushed?”
“Ah, yes.” Wynne nodded her head. “I saw her as well. She darted through here, looking as if she was in a hurry to get somewhere.”
“Her name is Arawin, and she’s the other recruit. She’s kind of hard to get along with.”
“Well, you will learn to understand her in time, just as you will all the other Grey Wardens. Do not expect to become instant friends with people you meet the very first time. It takes awhile for one to trust you, and if she is one of the city elves, then it may take a little longer.”
“Yes.” Zelda sighed, taking in the words that Wynne had spoken. It would take time. But there was something that plagued Zelda’s mind. Something other than Arawin. She figured Wynne might be able to answer it. “Wynne, have you faced darkspawn before? I haven’t, and I don’t know what to expect.”
Wynne gazed at her with a sternness that Zelda had seen before in her mother’s face. It meant she was about to tell her something she might not want to hear. “Stragglers, yes—not the vast horde the scouts speak of.” Wynne placed her index finger on her lips, thinking for a moment. “I wonder...” she said. “How much do you know of the connection between darkspawn and the Fade?”
“I know of what the Chant teaches. And that the fade is the place we go to when we dream.”
“Any time your spirit leaves your earthly body, whether it’s to dream or to die, it passes into the realm we call the Fade. It’s home to many spirits, some benevolent, others far less so. At the heart of the Fade lies the Black City. Some say the Black City was once the seat of the Maker, but when mages from the Tevinter Imperium found a way into the City, it was tainted with their sin. That taint transformed those men, turning them into twisted reflections of their own hearts. And the Maker cast them back to the earth, where they became the first darkspawn. At least, that’s what the Chant of Light says.”
“Whether or not that is true is to be questioned, though.”
Wynne nodded, agreeing with her. “It may be allegory, meant to teach us that our own evil causes human suffering. Or it may be true. It is as good an explanation as any, for now.”
“At least it’s something to ponder.”
“Yes, occasionally it’s wise to contemplate one’s actions. But I’m certain Duncan has more for you to do than talk to me.”
Zelda pondered some more. Talking to Wynne was refreshing and made her feel better. There was one other thing she wished to know before continuing on. “Actually, I was hoping I could ask you something about the Circle. Well, about a mage in the Circle. An apprentice.”
“Oh?” Wynne cocked her eyebrows and looked intently. “I will do my best, but the Circle is so full of mages these days, I fear I do not know all of the apprentices like I used to.”
“Well, he--”
“Wynne!” A young elven mage came running over to them. She seemed out of breath as she looked to the senior enchanter.
“What is it, Flora?” asked Wynne. “What do you need?”
“We need your assistance in the medical area,” she breathed. “They're requesting you to come and help heal some of the worst injuries.”
Wynne stood straight and complied. “Tell the nurses there that I'm coming.”
“Thank you.” Flora ran off, back the way she came, up a ramp that lead into another area of the ruins.
“If you will excuse me, dear,” said Wynne to Zelda. “We can finish this conversation later, if you don’t mind. I am a spirit healer, so many call for me when they are in need of aid.”
“I completely understand,” said Zelda. “Go, those soldiers need you right now.”
“I shall see you on the battlefield, then. And afterwards, we can talk.” Wynne waved to her, and ran in the direction that Flora had gone. Zelda breathed deeply. Now she needed to find someone who might be able to point her in the direction of Alistair.
***
The ruins seemed smaller than Arawin had thought, but that might have been because of the large tents scattered around the area. Arawin stood in between two of them. Both of them were fairly large, bigger than any of the other tents. One was sightly larger than the other, and Arawin figured it was the king’s tent. The other, perhaps belonged to Teyrn Loghain, the hero of River Dane. Arawin knew him as the man who helped the late King Maric regain the throne from Orlais. Even in the alienage, Loghain was revered for his prowess at the battle of River Dane. The last battle between the rebels and the Orlesian cheveliars. The battle that Loghain and the late Queen Rowan had won, of course.
Arawin didn’t necessarily care very much. Loghain was just another human to her. She had little respect for humans, except when it came to a few. The Grey Wardens in particular she respected. Perhaps even the king, although she would only do so to his face. It wasn’t as if the king had done anything for the city elves of late. He made promises, obviously, but they always turned out empty.
‘We need a voice.’ Arawin had heard her father say many times. ‘But no one will listen to an elf unless they have a seat in the Landsmeet. And you know that will never happen.’
Arawin shook her head. It would happen if she had anything to do about it. How she was going to accomplish such a thing, though, she did not know. She first needed to deal with the darkspawn.
As Arawin made her way around the camp, soldiers ran about, bringing orders and carrying equipment to and fro. Among them were elves. There were no elves in uniform, instead, they all were servants. Running from tent to tent, delivering messages, or doing the dirty work that no other soldier would do. It made Arawin sick to watch. She couldn’t believe that her own people would allow such a thing to be done, but it was something she understood as well. The elves did want to help as much as they could, and if they couldn’t fight, then cleaning up after the messy soldiers was the next best thing. Arawin was only glad that she could fight. There was no way, as a Grey Warden, were they going to get her to do any cleaning.
She, of course, was bombarded by shouts and screams as she walked past certain men who thought she was a servant. She would yell back at them, saying she was a Grey Warden, and not a servant. Many times the men didn’t believe her, saying she was only trying to get out of her duties, and forced the note or equipment in her hands anyway. Arawin would walk out of view before dumping anything from her hands on the ground.
“I don’t care,” she would say. “It’s their own fault if nothing gets done. I told them I wasn’t a servant.” Most of the men, however, would believe her and apologized. They could obviously tell from the swords on her back, and from the leather armor she wore. The others didn’t seem to notice because they were in too much of a hurry.
When Arawin came up to a ramp, she saw it led into what looked like a training area. There were many stuffed dummies being held up by wooden polls. Soldiers hacked at them with their swords and axes. Archers aimed and fired arrows at targets. A large crowd was gathered around, each man in the crowd looking at the ground. Arawin noticed something there, something that didn’t look normal. She came closer to the crowd, and heard the sergeant talking.
“Look carefully, men. This wretched thing is a darkspawn,” he said pointing to the thing on the ground. Arawin looked closer and saw the corpse. The darkspawn was smaller than she thought it would be. Even shorter than she was. It’s skin was wrinkled and a sickly gray. It clung to the bones, making it appear monstrous. Long, sharp teeth, pointing in all directions came from it’s mouth. It’s eyes were red, dull from the lack of life, but Arawin figured it probably didn’t have much light in them even alive. Darkspawn were said to have no soul. It’s blood was also thick, coating the ground, and black in color. The smell almost made Arawin want to gag. It was a rotten smell, one Arawin had never smelled before. She couldn’t quite place it.
“They’re strong, cunning, and smart,” continued the sergeant. “But don’t listen to those old wives tales... they can be killed. Stick them with your sword enough, and they’ll go down. Their blood is black as sin and poisonous. Don’t even touch it. You get tainted with that blood and you may as well slit your throat. We’ve lost many dogs already. Had to muzzle them to keep them from biting. It’s a long and painful way to die...”
“Do they all look like this?” asked Arawin once she figured the sergeant was done. “Or is it just because this one is dead?”
The sergeant huffed at her. “No, all darkspawn are different in appearance. I actually think death beautifies them, but that’s just my opinion. I guess you’ll just have to see once we face them again. Which won’t be for too much longer.”
The crowd of soldiers began to dissipate, leaving Arawin alone to stare at the darkspawn corpse. She couldn’t help but to stare at it. This was what Grey Wardens faced every day. Their true foe. The reason why they existed. She needed to know as much about this enemy as she possibly could.
“Not a pretty sight, is it?” came a voice from behind her.
Arawin took her eyes from the darkspawn to find a man standing next to her. He was staring down at the corpse as well. He appeared to be balding, for his hair was receding from his forehead. He wore heavy red chainmail, and on his back, Arawin noticed a great sword. A two-handed weapon with a long hilt and blade. She knew this man was very strong, otherwise he would not be able to wield such a weapon.
“No, it isn’t,” said Arawin as she backed up a bit from the corpse. Not because of the man, but because the smell was starting to get to her.
The man looked over at her and put out his hand. “Greetings. You must be one of the other recruits we’ve heard about. Ser Jory is my name. I hail from Redcliffe, where I served as knight under the command of Arl Eamon.”
Arawin reluctantly took his hand and they shook. When they let go, Arawin quietly, and quickly wiped her hand off. The knight’s hand was rather sweaty. “I'm Arawin,” she said. “And you must be the other recruit Duncan mentioned. How did you know who I was?”
“By the way you studied that darkspawn. Only a Grey Warden recruit, who has never seen one before would study a corpse so intently.” Ser Jory began to examine her. Arawin felt like she was on display for some auction. She did not like it. “I wasn’t aware elves could join the Grey Wardens. Those camped in the valley are all human,” he finally said.
Great. Arawin placed her hands on her hips and glared. “Do you have a problem with that?” she asked intently.
“No!” Ser Jory backed off, waving his hands in front of him. “Clearly, the Grey Wardens pick their recruits on their merits. I hope we’re both lucky enough to eventually join the Wardens. Is it not thrilling to be given that chance?” he asked, trying to change the subject.
Arawin allowed him, not really wanting to get into another confrontation. “Yes, I’m looking forward to it. In fact, I really can’t wait to get out there and kick some darkspawn ass.”
“I fought hard to get here,” said Ser Jory. “Impressing Duncan was not easy. I entered into a competition in Redcliffe. I won, and the prize was becoming Duncan’s new recruit. At first I didn’t want to come. You see, my wife is heavy with child, and I didn’t want to leave her alone.”
“So why did you come?”
“She convinced me to. Said it was a once in a lifetime chance. She knew I wouldn’t be there to see the baby be born, but she didn’t want me to miss this just because of her. She’s a good woman. Always looked into my best interests.”
“I see...”
“Tell me,” Ser Jory asked, not really picking up on Arawin’s sarcasm. “Has anyone told you what this Joining ritual entails?”
“It’s a big secret apparently,” said Arawin. She looked around more at the training area. Training with some of the soldiers were hounds, the same as what Zelda had.
“I never heard of such a ritual,” Ser Jory continued. “I had no idea there were more tests after getting recruited. I suppose since you’re finally here I’d best get back to Duncan. I shall see you there.” Ser Jory bid Arawin good-bye before he began his decent down the ramp.
“Hey, where are the kennels?” Arawin asked him before he disappeared.
Ser Jory turned to face her. “I think they're just beyond the king’s tent. Next to the gate that leads to the Wilds.”
“Thanks,” she said. “I’ll see you later then.” She sped past Ser Jory, making her way to the area he mentioned. On her way, she passed the Grey Warden tent. Duncan was outside, tending to a large bonfire that blazed up to the sky. Next to the fire was Rupee. She looked asleep, but propped her head up when Arawin passed by. The dog wagged her tail to see her, and barked before placing her head back on the ground.
Arawin wasn’t sure why she wanted to go to the kennels. To see the dogs? Well, maybe... but there was more. Arawin was a little jealous that Zelda had a mabari. She had always wanted a pet, but her family was always too poor to keep one. Arawin had to settle for taking care of strays before her father would chase them away.
When she got to the kennels, Arawin noticed a man leaning over the fence. He was looking at a dog who was kept in an area all by himself. Arawin made her way over to him, wanting to know what was wrong with the dog, or why it was separated from the others.
“Hmm. This isn’t good,” said the man, muttering to himself. “I’d hate to waste such a promising member of the breed.” He then noticed Arawin’s presence and straightened himself. “Hello there,” he said to her. “Are you the new Warden? I could use some help.”
Why do some people know me but others don’t? It was a question Arawin stopped asking people after a while. Some of them were just more informed than others. “Really? Are you the kennel master?”
“Yes I am,” he said. The man was filthy looking, but that was probably due to the fact he took care of dogs all day. He wore only what looked like rough leather armor, and no weapons upon his person. He seemed very proud of his job.
“I don’t know anything about dogs,” said Arawin.
“It’s not what you know so much as what you are, really. This is a mabari,” he said gesturing to the hound laying next to the fence that he was just examining. “Smart breed, and strong. His owner died in the last battle, and the poor hound swallowed darkspawn blood. I have medicine that might help, but I need him muzzled first.”
“And you think I should muzzle him? Why?”
“You’re a Grey Warden, or soon will be. All Wardens are immune to the darkspawn taint. The most you have to worry about is some tooth marks.” The kennel master smiled. He showed her some marks on his arms and legs, and Arawin wondered if having a mabari was as good an idea as it was a few minutes ago. “Don’t worry,” he said seeing her concern. “These hounds don’t bit their owners. I take care of all the dogs here in the camp, and they don’t all belong to me.”
“Just how smart are these dogs?” Arawin asked. “I have heard many stories about them.”
“Well,” began the kennel master. “Centuries ago, a mage bred them to be smart and understand what they’ve been told. They can remember and carry out complex orders. Most valuable dogs in the world. Trouble is they generally imprint to one master; re-imprinting them is very difficult. But without the medicine, re-imprinting won’t be an issue. Will you help?”
Arawin thought for a moment. This was what she wanted to discuss. “Could he be imprinted to me?”
“We can try,” the kennel master said slowly, considering. “But first we need to muzzle and medicate him.”
“Alright, I’ll give it a shot.”
“Go in the pen and let him smell you. We’ll know right away if he’ll respond. Let’s hope this works. I would really hate to have to put him down.”
Arawin made her way to the gate. The kennel master opened it for her, and closed it when she was in the pen. He handed her the muzzle. The dog slowly moved it’s eyes up to her. She could tell he was not feeling well at all. The dog stood, looking at her respectfully. He then put on an aggressive stance, but then backed down from her. Arawin could see intelligence in his eyes, as well as a great deal of pain. Quickly, but gently, Arawin put on the muzzle. She was careful to stay as far away from his teeth as she could. But the hound made no attempt to bite her. A weak growl did escape his lips, making Arawin fidget, but the dog did nothing more. When she was done, Arawin stood and headed to the gate, where the kennel master let her out. As she left, she could hear the hound whimper.
“Well done!” praised the kennel master. “Now I can treat the dog properly—poor fellow. Come to think of it, are you heading into the Wilds any time soon?”
Arawin looked over at the gate which opened to the Korcari Wilds. It was closed now, and being guarded. “I might be,” she said. “I plan on seeing these Wilds at some point. Why?”
“There’s a particular herb I could use to improve the dog’s chances. It’s a flower that grows in the swamps here, if I remember. If you happen across it, I could use it. It’s very distinctive: all white with a blood-red center.”
“Where in the Wilds would I find this flower?” If it was going to help the dog, then she would go into the Wilds no matter what to find the herb.
“It usually grows in dead wood that collects at the edge of ground pools. There should be plenty this time of year.”
“Will the dog be all right without it? Just in case I can’t get into the Wilds.” Even though Arawin was already planning on how she would do such a thing. There were many trees about, and some even hung over the gates.
“If he doesn’t get it, chances are he’ll need to be put down.” The kennel master looked back down at the dog. The poor thing was breathing heavy, and shook with a chill.
“I’ll find one,” said Arawin as she too saw the hound suffer. It pained her to see such a thing. Especially after looking into it’s eyes.
“Good,” said the kennel master as he made his way around the gate into the pens. “In the meantime, I’ll begin treating our poor friend.”
“How long does he have?”
“Not long, so if you plan on going into the Wilds, you should do it within the next day or so. I say he probably has no more than two days. Three at the most, with the medicine I’ll give him.”
“Thank you,” said Arawin bowing. She made her leave. She would go into the Wilds, but there was also something else she did have to deal with first. With at least three days to find the flower, she figured it would be easier to sneak into the Wilds at night, under the cover of darkness. For now, she needed to find Alistair, and get this Joining over with.
***
Zelda had found herself in front of a blacksmith’s tent. She could smell the distinct scent of hot metal and the steam from water as the metal was plunged into it. She had been directed here after asking someone if they knew where Alistair was. They said to go to the blacksmith where he was last seen. But there was no sight of him, from what Zelda knew. Course he could have been anyone of the soldiers waiting outside of the tent for their arms or armor. She had no idea what the man looked like.
“I’m wondering from that silent glare that the answer is no?”
Zelda noticed a woman dressed in chainmail standing next to the tent. Beside her was a man with a cocked-eyed look trying to get her attention. The woman soon rolled her eyes and began walking away.
“Oh, come on!” said the man. “And I thought I was starting to get through to her.”
“Excuse me,” said Zelda. She wasn’t sure if talking to him was a good idea, but she needed to know about Alistair.
The man noticed her and smiled. “Well, you’re not what I thought you’d be.”
Zelda was a little shocked. She did not expect him to say that. “What’s that supposed to mean?”
“Oh, me and ser knight were just betting on what the new recruits would be. Not such a beautiful woman. Yet here you are. The name’s Daveth,” he said bowing to her. “It’s about bloody time you came along. I was beginning to think they cooked this ritual up just for our benefit.”
“Maybe they did,” said Zelda.
“Just to give us a good scare? No, they don’t really seem the type. Duncan doesn’t at least, maybe the others, but the way they keep this Joining thing a secret makes it seem more foreboding than anything.”
“What do you know about this ritual?” Daveth had been at the camp longer than she had. Maybe he knew more about it.
“I happened to be sneaking around camp last night, see,” he said, leaning close to whisper in Zelda’s ear. “And I heard a couple of Grey Wardens talking. So I listen in for a bit. I’m thinking they plan to send us into the Wilds.”
“Really?” Zelda said backing away from him. She then straightened. “So what? That wouldn’t frighten me,” she said trying not to act scared, even though she really was.
Daveth looked at her, cocking his eyebrow. “Cannibals, beasts, witches, and now darkspawn? What isn’t to be scared of? It’s all too secretive for me. Makes my nose twitch. I guess we’ll have to wait and see. Like we have a choice.”
“As long as we stick together, then the Wilds shouldn’t be a problem. I’ll watch your back if you watch mine.”
“Oh, I’ll watch your back,” he chuckled.
“You’re a charmer, I see,” said Zelda knowing that she just walked right into that.
“That’s me!” Daveth laughed. “I’ll watch the back of a pretty girl any day.”
“Well, then you’re not going to know which way to turn when you meet Arawin.”
“Oh! Another one as well? I will need to see her to make sure you are right. Anyway, I expect it’s time to get back to Duncan. That’s where I’ll be, if you need me for anything. And I do mean anything. This could be the last battle we ever see, you know. We should make the night before special.”
“And how many times has that line worked?”
“Quite a few, actually!” Daveth laughed again. “But I guess not with you, huh? Ah, well, I’ve gotten plenty of rejections too.”
As he strode off, Zelda realized she had forgotten to ask him about Alistair. She tried to get his attention, but it was already too late. He was far away. It was then that Zelda noticed Arawin pass by him. She looked at Zelda with disdain as she saw her waving.
“No, not you,” Zelda whispered. “She thinks I’m waving at her. Oh, well. Maybe she knows something. I don’t know any other reason why she would be over this way.”
“What do you want?” Arawin asked in an aggressive tone. “Did you have to wave me down like that?”
“I wasn’t waving to you,” said Zelda in just as an aggressive tone as Arawin had given her. “I was trying to get Daveth’s attention, the man you just passed. He is the other recruit. I was trying to ask him about where to find Alistair.”
“Daveth, huh? You mean the grisly looking guy back there?”
“Yes, that would be him.”
“I met Ser Jory. He’s a recruit as well.”
“That’s nice,” said Zelda. “But you don’t happen to know where Alistair is? I’ve asked everyone, and they all said he was just here, at the blacksmith tent, but I don’t see him.”
“You don’t even know what he looks like,” said Arawin. “And I don’t suppose you asked anyone around here?”
“No, I was just talking to Daveth before he left and then you came.”
Arawin sighed heavily and shook her head. “Alright, Princess, I’ll do it.”
“Wait, that’s not what--”
Arawin turned to all the soldiers waiting outside the tent, ignoring Zelda. “Are any of you named Alistair?” she asked.
“No,” said some of the soldiers.
“Does anyone know where he is? He’s a Grey Warden.”
“He’s probably in the ruined temple,” said one soldier. “I saw him go up there. The Grey Wardens like to use it for their meetings. It’s right up the ramp.” He pointed to the ramp next to the tent.
“Thank you,”said Zelda. She looked at Arawin. “Shall we, or are you not done being alone yet?”
“If we must, then let’s get it over with,” Arawin groaned.
“Is being with me that horrible?”
“Yes, it is. Apparently you got your wish. Whether I want to be it or not, I am your humble servant.”
“What?” Zelda wasn’t sure what to say to her. “Is this what you’re mad about? Because I wanted to make you a servant?”
“It might not have been your true intention. Maybe you were only saying it to free me, but it didn’t really strike me the right way. And now, I apparently am doing your work.”
“I could have asked them myself. You just happened to be here. You didn’t even give me a chance!”
“Sure, Princess, what ever you say,” said Arawin crossing her arms. She then began making her way to the ramp. “Now, if you're done, I think Alistair is waiting.”
Zelda glared at the elf as she made her way up the ramp. She then noticed that all the soldiers had been watching them bicker. She turned a light shade of red before making her way up the ramp after Arawin.
This is going to be hard. Very hard.

Paraphrasing from Dragon Age: Origins
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Blood Bond