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[Slim Warden]

  I'd like to thank Bioware for producing a fantastic game that has allowed us to enjoy it in more ways than one.

(Introduction)
  The Wardens of Fereldan are now but a pair after the defeat at Ostagar now the only thing standing between the people of Fereldan and the wrath of the Archdemon is the displaced noble Drezdin and his compatriots, this is they're tale.

  (Chapter 1:  The way to Red Cliffe)


 To Highever he will go, 
 through wizened tree's and battered road, 
 to highever the hero's home.
  Down to open sea's and snow touched peaks,
 of highever the hero speaks.

   Through the mind of 22 year old Drezdin Cousland rang the somber ballad, the tall dark haired man knew it was now but a memory of his past and all that the he possessed of his home other than His Dog, a blade and a broken shield.
  
   It would seem that is was only yesterday he had enjoyed his life within his families estate,
 it would seem only yesterday that he had seen his father lay dying as a result of the vile plotting
 of one Arl Howe, a man who He had looked at like an uncle, a man he wished well the night of
 that attempted regicide.
  
   His thoughts went further to the Grey Warden Duncan and his rescue, albeit one that had seen
 Drezdin lose alot and at the sametime promise himself to the service of the wardens, an oath that would see him travel into the wilds of the Korcari, alongside a warden Alistar with fellow recruits Daveth and Ser Jory to face the dreaded darkspawn,  and the maybe not so much dreadful but crazy witch Flemeth and her beautiful but narcisistic daughter Morrigan.
  
   He reflected on the joining of the wardens, the death of all other recruits, the battle that followed, the betrayal of Teryn Logaihn,  Flemeths edge of the seat rescue, the realization of all He Alistar, His hound Caesar, and with the group by parental order  Morrigan had to do to save Fereldan and all these thoughts snowballed once he reached the memories of Lothering.
 
                                       ****()****
 
   Drezdin who had been sitting on a barrel his hazel eyes ever vigilant as the sun fell out of sight, he leaned forward as he held his head up with his hand, his palm protected from his unshaven stubble by a pair of fingerless leather gloves, only breaking his concentrated glare out at lake Calenhad to glance at the Mabari warhound resing aside the barrel, but his concentration would soon be broken by his fellow warden Alistar
  
 "Hey, Murdock said he saw you over here, and he told me to tell you, that  night is nearly upon us, unless you haven't gathered as much as you've been out here all afternoon" remarked Alistar to a silent Drezdin who stood up grabbing the dual blades resting against the adjacent barrel to his.
 
 "No Alistar I have completely forgotten the upcoming battle and the gravity of the situation, tis' a good thing you were here to remind me" replied Drezdin in a cheerily sarcastic fashion as he snapped his fingers to call Caesar "well its  good to know someone appreciates a royal bastard around here" said a grinning Alistar, as  he and Drezdin began the walk back to the town center.
 
  "So just a little wonder why did you leave you're pack at the  dock? anything super important in there?" asked Alistar as they ascended the stairs leaving the docks "nothing really a couple of flasks, herbs, my last will and testament, and my family shield" replied Drezdin in a non-chalant sorta way.
   
      As the pair went past Kaitlyn's home Alistar stopped Drezdin with an apologetic face "about the shield I'm sorry about breaking it at Ostagar you let me use it, and I know it was important to y....." was all Alistar was able to say before Drezdin interrupted him "its nothing really Alistar you don't need to apologize" interrupted Drezdin with a serious tone in his voice, "well I know it was you're family's shield, thats blood" said Alistar with concern "it, its REALLY nothing" retorted Drezdin in a now defensive tone "I, uh I'm still sorry for it" replied Alistar,  Drezdin started to march off but not before glancing back "its a shield Alistar it can be fixed" stated Drezdin as he walked off with caesar,  Alistar taking a single second before following.
 
                                     ****()****

    As Drezdin, Alistar and Caesar approached the group of militia hustling about in the town center the Splintmail donning wardens, and not so much armored dog were given greetings by Morrigan, who's stride towards  them inspired many feelings from the two Wardens, in Alistar it brought out dislike and general fear that she would betray them, while in Drezdin her chasind sense of style inspired  an entirely different collection and or chain of thoughts.

  "Wardens I'am oh so happy to inform you that everything is ready to defend the town......" remarked Morrigan with sarcasm before being  interrupted by a  drunken man who's armor suggested he was militia, the drunken would be soldier pointed towards Drezdin, "uh you there? You, Desmond Bella told me to wish  ye luck"   spat the drunken civilian at arms before stumbling off "....and its good people" said Morrigan greatly annoyed to the point of biting her lip.

  "Good!" exclaimed Alistar "and by the way you don't need to call us Wardens we have names in case you've forgotten" said Alistar with a slight grin, a grin that  would be swiftly removed "no I remember Drezdin's name tis' your's that I wish forgotten" stated Morrigan with a venom that could rival any beast of her native wilds. 
  
  As the two glared at each other, with ill wishes being rained down upon one another from both sides "well its good to know everythings ready" Drezdin exclaimed attempting to interrupt the staring contest between the apostate, and the templar "by the way where are Sten and Leliana?" asked Drezdin further trying to redirect the moment onto another subject.
  
  "Sten is at the windmill with the knights and Leliana is helping in that chantry" answered Morrigan taking her glare off Alistar and placing her vision on  Drezdin "well you and Alistar go up to the ridge and wait with Sten, I'm going to go get Leliana and meet you up there" ordered Drezdin as he walked off to the chantry, Morrigan marched off without a word and Alistar followed her up the hill with Caesar trailin but not before letting out a sigh.
 
 
   As Drezdin ascended the short flight of stairs at the front of the chantry he was wished good luck by the mayor Murdock who hurried off to help the militia prepare for the battle, Drezdin knowing that nightfall was only minutes away, barged into the chantry with vigor where Leliana had been helping the Revered Mother care for the chantry's temporary residents, and also easing the fears of the few children by telling tales of times long ago, this one particular tale she was spinning was of Andraste, the Maker's chosen.
 
 
  But her tale was cut short as Drezdin interrupted "Leliana its time to go, the night is nearly upon us" she nodded and turned to the children who she was speaking to "the makers blessing are upon you, do not be afraid" spoke Leliana before she and Drezdin marched out the chantry.
 
  The night was nearly upon them and Drezdin began to remember the ballad taught to him as a child "through wizened tree and battered road, to highever the hero's home" chanted Drezdin under his breath as they began the march up to the windmill, Drezdin and Leliana strode quickly up the hill, Leliana moving swiftly in her light leather armor with Drezdin keeping up with a puposeful step, they had seen the smoke descending from Red Cliffe castle.
   The battle was about to begin.....
 

                                    ****()****
 
 AUTHOR'S NOTES:
  Good God that took a while, well I hope you like it, its my first every story like this and just to make it clear its following the BASE PLOT of Dragon Age: Origins but its the base plot with tweaks you won't expect and more emphasis on the Character Drezdin and his companions and while its difficult to build a story like this built upon a game with such wonderful characters I'm hoping to catch the spirit of each character and not make such believable characters two dimensional and bland, I also want to make the protagonist (Drezdin) as interesting as the rest so I hope you will enjoy this read and despite thinking that following the playrthough plot is lazy, I'm not going to follow it to the T, all I can promise is that the story is going to be very personal, expect to recognize alot of things but also expect but don't expect too much (Paranoia is the silent killer after  all) twists and slight curve balls that I hope will peak and keep you're interest.
  Thanks For Reading   Slim Warden
    

Modifié par Slim Warden, 25 juillet 2010 - 12:35 .

[hardscrable]

  Bring on the battle... thanx for the read kept the flavor well 
                                               Aloha

[Slim Warden]

 (Chapter 2: The Battle For Red Cliffe)

    Drezdin had reached the windmill where the most skilled of Red Cliffe's inhabitants stood ready with they're only light being that of the moon and the torches lit at the wjndmill's entrance, in spite of the dim surroundings they proudly stood  prepared to fight the evil descending from they're very castle. 

  As he approached Drezdin saw Alistar standing at the front alongside Sten, Ser perth, and the four knights that served under Perth stood at either flank, he had also seen Morrigan standing behind that thin frontline just beside Dwyn and his thugs who had been convinced earlier that day that fighting for Red Cliffe was in their better interest, and finally at the very back was the elf Berwick who was being watched attentively by Drezdin's hound caesar, possibly due to berwick's involvement in the town's situation, him being a spy for Teryn Logaihn and all.
  
    Drezdin and Leliana took they're place in the small group of warriors, Drezdin quickly slotting into the left flank with Leliana six feet behind him, it was a good thing that he was able to find his place so soon as creatures started to descend from the demonic smoke that had creeped down to the gate leading to castle Red Cliffe, "Brace Yourselves" cried Drezdin as the skeletal beings swooped in, the sounds that radiated from the clash of swords, shields and  arrows to bone would become the night's symphony as the battle began.
 
    The sight of the imposing Sten striking down the first of these shambling corpses was uplifting, but the first was not the last as more and more descended upon them like a wave smashing against rocks, Drezdin himself found they're formation waning as the frontline was not a line but a scattered bunch, the  swarms of creatures were indeed outnumbering them, but they lacked the certain skills, the skills that Drezdin possessed his wielding of his dual blades was as flashy as it was pragmatic swiping the legs off of one fiend before lobbing the head off another, his attacking momentum soon found him back to back with Alistar,  "they just keep coming" said the man who's posture in combat was more safe and defensive, usually blocking with his shield before countering with his sword.
 
   As the frontline was slowly being encircled, Morrigan and Leliana found themselves isolated at the door of the windmill with only Sten as a barrier but a  formidable barrier he was as the Qunari soldier swung his greatsword with confidence, and assurance as he always struck thru his enemy and fought with a sense of ease on the battlefield afterall this was where he belongs, his efforts to protect Morrigan and Leliana were benefical to Drezdin and Alistar who had the burden of battle taken off  of them by the mages powers, and the rogues efficency with a bow but he was not the only protector of the two ladies, the warhound Caesar lent his paws where he was needed.
 
   "I get the feeling this is never going to end" said Alistar slightly drained after bashing one of they're attackers with his shield, "I suppose they're just being stubborn in not just STOPPING!" retorted Drezdin as shifted his weight to dodge an oncoming attack by one of the many skeletal creatures, one that would soon be stunned by a thunder bolt of Morrigan's conjuring, "thanks!" shouted Drezdin back at the witch, but he was soon tackled to the ground by one of these creatures, and Alistar who was surrounded was clawed on his shoulder from behind but was saved further injury as Ser Perth saw to it that Alistar was backed up.
 
   Drezdin who had been tackled to the ground did well to make sure the corpse did not get a good grip to continue the attack, but he was still on the ground,
as he looked to pick himself up he saw the skeletal corpse face to face, before its head was gnawed off by the ever loyal Caesar, "thanks boy" said Drezdin as he slowly stood up, the cousland  observed that the battle was nearly won, the few fiends around him were dispatched quickly by leliana's bow, and as the battle slowed he saw that two of Ser Perth's knights had fallen he  saw an injured Dwyn being dragged by one of his thugs away from the battle that was now winding down, he saw Berwick in the backline leaning over to catch his breath, he looked back to the front to witness as Sten struck down the last of them.
  
   "Its over" stated Sten marching towards Drezdin as the winded party regrouped "not quite" replied Morrigan as she saw a milita man sprinting up the hill "THEY"RE COMING FROM THE LAKE!" screamed the man motioning for help, "Maker's breath is there no end to this" said Alistar bleeding from his wounded shoulder  "well Alistar they must really love us to send so many" retorted Drezdin with a tired grin "and we're close, so Alistar, Morrigan and Leliana you're coming with me, Caesar and Sten stay with the knights" ordered Drezdin as they followed the frantic messenger.
 
                              ****()****

   Drezdin rushed down the hill the sound of death and blades caused a slight cringe across his face it was all too familiar like a dark memory.
   
  The group and him soon found themselves looking down at the town center from the ridge next to the tavern, "Morrigan unleash some lightning on those creatures, so me and Alistar can get in the fray thru the flank while Leliana provides support from here" commanded the Cousland, and as sure as it was ordered the tasks were carried out , Morrigan casted a spell of chain lightning that ripped through the skeletal ranks before Drezdin and Alistar joined in on the battle of attrition.
 
  Alistar who had been wounded earlier in the night was moving a bit sluggish, his left shoulder continued to bleed, the pain was obviously affecting him as his blocks with his shield lacked a bit of conviction his injury caused Drezdin to play a more defensive roll always staying close to Alistar and making sure that the enemy did not take advantage of his brother in arms wound.
 
   The battle in the town center was long and bloody more so than the fight at the windmill, Drezdin witnessed as Tomas who had greeted them when they first reached Red Cliffe hobble around the battle with a broken nose after one of the drunken militia men from the tavern nailed him in the face with an elbow.

  He witnessed  the militia become a troupe of walking injured, each of them suffering from one trauma or another, but they fought through the blood sweat and tears to defend they're town, and as Drezdin slew the last of they're opposition, the smoke that descended from the castle receded and it was over for the night.

  It had turned midnight when the last of the creatures had fallen "THANK THE MAKER ITS OVER!!" screamed the mayor Murdock who had broke his wrist in the battle as Drezdin and co gathered at the front door of the chantry where Bann Teagan stood "Warden's I've sent some of the men with Ser Perth to survey the battlefields, so I believe you all should get some rest while thats being tended to" stated Teagan attentively "are you sure you don't need us to help?" asked Drezdin curiously  "No, they can take it from here, and Alistar you might want to take care of that shoulder" was the last thing Teagan said before marching back into the chantry.
  
   "After that I think I really could use a nice long nap" optimisticly stated Leliana sitting on the chantry's steps before letting out a slight yawn  "a nap? I could use a day off after that"  joked Alistar who was removing his cuirass and shoulder guards to bandage the gashes from earlier in the night "knowing you, you'd probably waste the day away trying to overcome you're stupidity" was the scornful response from Morrigan who was standing next to one the pillars in front of the chantry before Sten added his own two sense, "All this talk of naps and days off seems irresponsible the town is still in danger and the blight is at you're door step" the statement caused Leliana, Alistar and Morrigan to look at Sten with slightly unamused faces.
 
  "WELL! if anyone cares what I want, I just want a plaque with my name on it, put on the front door of the chantry" joked Drezdin who was leaning against the pillar that Morrigan was next to but on the opposite side 'BARK' went Caesar conversationally to Drezdin "ah yes you'll get one too, but I think I'm going to head back to my bedroll at the docks and get some sleep" retorted Drezdin as he started to walk off "but didn't some of those monsters come from the lake?" asked Alistar with a bit of worry "don't worry I'll be fine" replied Drezdin who had made his way towards the lakes dock with Caesar in toe.
 
  "WELL WHEN A GIANT SKELETON LIKE SQUID THINGY WITH A BEARD SNATCHS YOU DON'T CRY TO ME!" Alistar yelled at Drezdin who was now a distance away "SHUT UP!" was the only reply to Alistar coming from a injured resident of the chantry  "now thats appreciation for you" remarked
Morrigan.
 
                     ****()****
  It was the first time Drezdin had slept in a town for nearly two weeks, while Lothering had an inn it was full, and the town itself was overflowing with refugees, the well deserved rest was one that would put Drezdin in a place of dreams,  he saw the stone structures of highever, the majesty of its sky and the peace he found in the presence of his family.
 
   He marched throught his childhood home, a haze always present but he did notice  as any simple memory would  suffice to ease his mind, after all he was at the present a Grey Warden facing a blight, something he would be reminded of all too soon.
 
   Drezdin had finally reached the bedrooms of castle Highever he saw a light glimmering from his brothers bedroom, he peaked in to see his family just as they were when they had gathered to see Fergus off to war, "Brother" uttered Drezdin, a shock in his voice as he saw the last warm moment he spent with his family.

   But as he entered the room  he found himself displaced, no longer was he in the torch lit halls of highever he was in a dark place, he heard the falling of footsteps and soon he saw the army that was it's source ,a horde of Darkspawn and the dream turned to a nightmare he witnessesd as a mighty dragon swooped over head letting out a horrendous cry that chilled Drezdin's bones and shocked him awake.
 
   The Cousland awoke with a quick exhale of breath, sitting up as he calmed his breathing it was nearly pitch black, the clouds having engulfed the moon, he looked forward only to see the silouhette of his dog Caesar a few feet away but the dog was not the only presence "dreams Warden?" asked a woman's voice it carried a sultry yet dark flavor to it.
 
  "Yes Morrigan dreams of Archdemons, Darkspawn and other thoroughly nasty bits of work" Replied Drezdin to the figure, standing but two feet away from him next to a barrel, "well is the Archdemon's name brother?" asked Morrigan as she dimly lit the area with the glow from a small spell, "well no, I'm hardly related to the Archdemon in anyway" was the reply from Drezdin, "so you had a dream about you're family then?" Morrigan said with an interrogative tone "well yes but I get the feeling you aren't here just to interrogate me about dreams, after all we haven't exactly talked that much since I agreed to help the town" remarked Drezdin as he raised his arms and interlocked his hands behind his neck.
 
  "Tis' true that I did not appreciate having to defend this unnecessasary distraction but I think, that every deed deserves some type of merit, doe's it not?" stated Morrigan with a raised eyebrow as she put her hands close to eachother slightly dimming the orb of light she had conjured earlier, "soooo? I'm getting my plaque on the chantry's door after all?" jokingly asked Drezdin with charm that only a noble could possess, "hmph, I had something different in mind, twas cold the night after Lothering tis' cold now is it not?" asked Morrigan in a sultry manner, "well I guess there is only one thing to do, seek warmth" retorted Drezdin with a sly grin, "well then enough of this talk" was all Morrigan said before dispelling the orb of light as she leaned down to lock ips with Drezdin letting the night go dark again.

  MEANWHILE.....
 
  Alistar had just finished bandaging his wound nearly two hours after Drezdin had gone off to bed, he glanced around him, and saw that he was alone as the groups of militia sent out to survey the battlefields had moved on to the windmill, he stood up and looked over to the docks only to see a faint light,  "what the?" Alistar questioned himself as he made his way to the docks, only to see Morrigan about to kiss his fellow warden "OH MAKER NO!" he screamed in his head, his face one of disgust , "I think I'm going to have nightmares" whispered Alistar as he turned his head and strolled off back to the chantry.

                                 ****()****

 AUTHOR's NOTE:
  Holy wall of text Batman thats a long chapter, but in my defence, go big, or go home.
  But anyway to all you Bann Teagan fangirls and boys.....  He will be appearing more next chapter so rejoice at that fact also yes Morrigan has seduced the good old protagonist and also I couldn't help but put AListar's part at the end in I figured after such a battle oriented and lengthy chapter a little comic relief would do us all some good.
  So next chapter expect some teagan, some leliana, some sten, some Drezdin, some Jowan, castle crashing and amulet retrieving. 
  Also please leave some feed back I would like to know if I'm doing good, mediocre, mind numbingly horrible, but seriously I'd like some opinions ctritique and comments.
    Thanks For Reading, Slim Warden. 

Modifié par Slim Warden, 11 mai 2010 - 01:31 .

[Slim Warden]

    (Chapter 3: Breakfasts, Trinkets, And Interruptions)


   It was soon after the dawn that Drezdin awoke from his slumber, he looked from side to side to see no'one but his Mabari warhound Caesar looking at him curiously, as if he knew what Drezdin had been up to with Morrigan in the wee hours of the night "were you watching us boy?" asked Drezdin with a slightly disturbed face a conversational bark was the only resonse from the hound, "I'm just going to assume that's a no".
 
   Drezdin sat up running his hand through his short black hair as he let out a slight yawn, the morning dew still upon the plants, and a slight chill ran through Drezdin who was unsure if it was in the wind, or his blood. 
 
  It was maybe an hour past dawn and after his eventful night he felt slightly drained, but the day was upon him and there was still much to do to ensure the safety of Red Cliffe, and the recovery of Arl Eamon, as he reached over to grab his garments, and armor he realised something was missing, he looked down to his bare chest placing his right hand on his neck searching for the necklace he recieved after joining the Grey Wardens, the trinket was a dedication to the other recruits that did not make it past the joining.
  
  He searched franticly for it patting himself down, flipping his bed roll, and even emptying out his pack but it was to no avail, "where is it?" questioned Drezdin as he pondered the location of the amulet he looked over to Caesar, and remembered that he had been tackled down during the battle last night by the windmill,  'well if its not there its a good place to start'  thought Drezdin.
 
  Swiftly was not quite the word for Drezdin as he rushed to get dressed, picking up his blades and their respective sheath's strapping them to him before grabbing his pack and marching off with caesar in tow to search for the necklace.
 
  As he and Caesar again ascended the stairs leading off the docks to the town center he ran into Alistar "there you are I was coming to retrieve you, and I was afraid you'd still be asleep after last night" greeted Alistar with an odd tone as Drezdin halted his pacy march in front of the templar "well, hello to you too Alistar" sarcasticly replied Drezdin "well good'day then since we're being formal, and its good you're awake I thought you'd need a few hours of extra sleep, after 'that battle" was the reply from Alistar who pronounced "that battle" whilst using the finger qoute motion, "what's with the finger thing? actually nevermind, is there a reason you needed to retrieve me?" was the repsonse from a slightly confused Cousland "well Bann Teagan wants everyone in the town center, the Revered Mother wants to pray for the events last night so we should get going" said Alistar, Drezdin sighed and gave a nod.
 
   Alistar, Caesar and Drezdin made they're way into the town center, where the entire populace of Red Cliffe had gathered, the trio soon took they're place in front of the chantry standing alongside the rest of they're band, Leliana stood next to Drezdin eager to hear the words of the revered mother, the Stoic Sten looking as stern as ever next to the witch Morrigan who looked slightly annoyed by the religous gathering, Drezdin and Alistar who both had the same expressions of concern, Alistar's being more related to Arl Eamon's status and Drezdin's dealings with the witch, and Drezdin's was concern for the overall state of Red Cliffe and his missing necklace being only a pair of things that bothering the displaced noble.
 
   As the Revered Mother began her prayer for those that were lost, Bann Teagan stood at her side his head down just as everyone in the town center's  was listening attentively to each word as they were pronounced by the grey haired priestess, she blessed the survivor's, and of those who fough,t and would continue to fight for the righteous, as  she ended her prayer, "so let it be" was the phrase spoken by nearly everyone in the town center except for Morrigan, who let out a small sigh of relief that the old woman had finished.

  Bann Teagan rose his head and spoke to Drezdin nearly immediately after the prayer was finished, "We have much need to thank you warden, if not for you and you're friends I don't think we would have stood a chance, I believe some type of reward should be a in order" exclaimed a grateful Teagan ,"Its no big deal Teagan" remarked Drezdin in non chalant fashion "well there is still much to do, but we have sometime to plan and think" replied the Bann  "I guess we do, just let me know when a plan hits you, also did any of the survey groups come across a necklace that is carrying a vial of blood?" asked Drezdin after remembering his missing accessory " a vial of blood? no, but they might've missed something, after all they were cleaning up the battle sites in the wee hours" replied Teagan ,"well thanks anyway Teagan" retorted Drezdin prior to Bann Teagan's reply as he entered the chantry "I have to go make sure everything is organized in the chantry, meet me up at the windmill in two hours".
  
               ****()****
  After parting way with Bann Teagan Drezdin marched off with caesar and Alistar in tow, "so what are you looking for exactly?" pried Alistar with a raised eyebrow as they ascended the first ridge to the winmill, "the necklace you and Duncan gave me after the joining"replied Drezdin "you lost it? how did yo......." Alistar's question was interrupted by a small yet loud group of militia, "HEY! warden's good job last night" stated one of the three men "so are ya heading to tavern too?" asked the second "why whats at the tavern?" asked Drezdin in reply "well, we heard there is a discount on drinks and breakfast" stated the third, "breakfast? what could the tavern be serving for breakfast?" asked a slightly confused Alistar, when a loud chant was heard coming from the nearby tavern "ALE! ALE! ALE! ALE!" was the loud sermon being sung religously from the tavern, "should've seen that coming" commented Drezdin with a grin.
 
  They bid good'day to the three militia men before continuing the trek up to the windmill, "so, I know that this might not be the best time, you know we're necklace hunting and all but, I think you and me need to have talk about you and Morrigan" said Alistar with a hint of concern "me and Morrigan?" resonded Drezdin with a confused face "yes, you and her, I know that the two of you have been frollicking throught the night, licking lamposts" stated Alistar with a serious tone "well technically only one of us would be licking lamposts, IF we were frollicking thru the night" was the response from Drezdin as they neared the windmill.
 
  "Oh very funny, but I know you where with her, I saw you last night, and I know I wasn't seeing things" stated Alistar with a serious tone, Drezdin let out a sigh "so you saw us together?" asked Drezdin without denile of his actions "YES!, and I need to ask you what do you think you're doing?" was the answer from the serious, concerned, and slightly frightened Alistar "well other than enjoying myself I don't really have an answer" was the resonse from Drezdin as they reached the windmill and began searching, "she's untrustworthy Drezdin, what if she's put some spell on you, or what if she's just setting you up for some dark, and evil type of betrayal" said Alistar as they fanned the area around the windmill,  Drezdin turned his head ever so slightly to Alistar "Alistar if you're really that concerned I'll keep my wits about me, now lets take a look over by the tree's next to the windmill" ordered Drezdin as he attempted to comfort Alistar's concern "alright I'd prefer it if you just stopped, but I'll just pray this doesn't bite us in the rear later".
  
   The trio motioned they're way over to a group of about four tree's planted next to the windmill, it was an odd site in Red Cliffe, the town was mostly barren apart from this oddly placed group of bark, as they peaked left of the tree farthest from the windmill Drezdin saw his necklace on the grassy ground, "there you are!" exclaimed Drezdin as he leaned down to pick up the necklace noticing a beautiful white flower next to it, he gently picked the flower as well "so we got the necklace and I don't assume that flower is for Morrigan is it?" remarked Alistar as Drezdin stood up, necklace in his right hand, flower in the left "no I remember Leliana mentioning something about this flower being her mother's favorite, I think she might like it" replied Drezdin as the trio started the march back down the hill.
  "
  So you've talked to Leliana?" asked Alistar with an interrogative tone, "well yes I've spoken to everyone in our group" replied Drezdin as they made the descent back to the town "well did she say anything about her vision? you know the one that made her join us?" again questioned Alistar "she did, it was more of a dream however, but a symbolic dream, like the ones that people say they had before they ran off and tried to save the world" again replied Drezdin as they drew closer to the town, "so is she crazy?" yet again asked Alistar,  "no, the maker drives her I just don't know where the maker is, and I get the feeling there is more to her than we think" stated Drezdin who caused Alistar to stop in curiousity, "like what? is there more than one person in her head or something dangerous?" said Alistar garnering a response from Drezdin ,"no, just something, but now its my turn to ask the questions" said Drezdin as they started to move along again.
 
  "So how has everyone been treating you since you let out the secret of you're parentage?" was the question from Drezdin to Alistar "well Morrigan berated me about it, Leliana told me a few stories of lost kings reclaiming they're thrones, and Sten really hasn't said anything about it" replied Alistar, "okay I was just wondering"  remarked Drezdin before Alistar spoke again "I appreciate that you haven't treated me differently since you found out" commented Alistar "well it was you're wish my liege" said Drezdin in a joking manner as they approached the town.
   ****()****
  
  As Drezdin, Alistar, and Caesar approached the  town they saw Sten standing at the bottom of hill that led to the tavern eating a piece of bread, the trio approached the Qunari warrior, "Uh, Sten what are you doing out here?" asked Alistar curiously, "eating" was the blunt resonse from the Qunari, "no he meant why are you eating out here?" asked Drezdin in Alistar's place "the building is too loud, they reserved us places to sit but I do not wish to use them" explained Sten as the trio decided to check out the tavern, "well have fun out here, doing that" remarked Alistar as they made they're way into the tavern.
 
  The tavern was packed to the brim with men who were celebrating the fact they were still alive after the night, the stench of alchohol was radiating from the breath of nearly every human in the tavern, while nearly every seat was taken a single table was clear apart from one resident, that resident being Leliana who was slowly consuming a piece of bread, the trio entered the room to a loud hoorah of thanks, before being ushered to they're table by the taverns resident maid Bella.
 
   They took they're seats as they were given congratulations, and thanks by the surrounding people, Drezdin who took the closest seat to the red haired Leliana, as he presented the flower in front of her, "a flower for me?" asked Leliana "yes, if I'm not mistaken its you're mother's flower" said Drezdin as the white flower exchanged hands "my mother's flower? 'gasp' it is, it is my mother's flower I can't belive you remembered our little talk" replied Leliana as she gently held the flower peering into its pedals as if it were a looking glass, "well I remember alot of things" said Drezdin as he looked over to the bar maid Bella, "and I still have something to remember" was the comment from Drezdin before he marched off and took a piece of bread with him.
 
  Drezdin approached the bar maid as he quickly scarfed down his thin slice of bread ,"Bella I believe I made you a promise" stated Drezdin to Bella as she worked, "I'm just grateful you made it through the night but helping me really isn't neccasary" replied Bella as she was serving a customer, turning to face Drezdin only to see a small pouch of coins being dangled in front of her ,"a Cousland keeps his promises " exclaimed Drezdin as he handed her the pouch of five sovereigns, "Thank you so much, I don't know how I'll ever if I even can repay you" replied Bella as she hugged the warden, " no problem just be well my lady".
 
  Drezdin watched as Bella walked off into the backroom maybe to pack, maybe for another reason it didn't matter right now,  the Cousland turned around to look back at his table he saw Alistar chowing down on the loaf of bread placed on the table, Caesar sitting down next to Drezdin's seat, and Leliana who looked at Drezdin with a soft smile, as she held the flower close to her face, enjoying the aroma of the plant,, Drezdin returned the smile but was interrupted by Morrigan who had just entered the tavern.  
 
   The witch approached the Warden, her face always prudish  "Warden I've been looking for you" exclaimed Morrigan, "well why exactly have you been looking for me?" asked Drezdin with a sly grin, "well I was looking, because that Bann requests you're presence at the windmill, and I had my own reason to talk to you but tis' not the time" answered the Witch, her coldness ever evident "well I guess we better get going" remarked Drezdin as he motioned over to the Alistar, Leliana and Caesar to move out.
 
  The group left the tavern, and met up with Sten outside, they quickly marched up the hill and approached the windmill, they heard  on they're approach Teagan and a woman talking, "just wait Isolde they will be here any minute" said Teagan to the women, "we need to go now" exclaimed the woman as Drezdin and company approached, "see they're here" stated Teagan as the group reached them, the woman who's dress was wrinkled,  her hair, and face looked as tho she had been stressed beyond imagination , the same went for the two guards at her side, "they're presence doesn't  matter Teagan, you NEED to come alone" said the Orlesian woman before being interrupted by Alistar "Lady Isolde I don't know if you still  remember me, but is Eamon alright?" asked Alistar who recognized the woman.
 
  Lady Isolde turned her gaze to Alistar, "Alistar what are you doing here?" was the slightly angered response from Isolde "the better question is how did you get here?" asked Drezdin sharply ,"what and who is this person Teagan? what is he doing here?" again questioned Isolde, "they helped to defend the town and were going to help me storm the castle but the plan has changed" replied Teagan answering Isolde's question, and confusing Drezdin and Alistar.
   

     "What do you mean the plans changed?" asked the two Warden's in unision, "I must accompany Isolde up to the castle, she said that a rogue mage released a evil that is holding everyone hostage" answered the Bann, "but it could be a trap" replied Alistar, "I know but we have no choice in the matter" said Teagan, "quickly we must hurry Teagan" exclaimed Isolde motioning Teagan to follow which he did, but not before stopping to slip his signet ring to Drezdin, "theres a secret passage way to the castle in the windmill, I trust that you'll do you're best" whispered Teagan to Drezdin as he followed Isolde "I don't like this at all" stated leliana "neither do I" responded Drezdin as  he looked down at the ring in his palm.
       ****()****

  Bann Teagan had followed Isolde and her guards up to the castle, "so this mage that you said caused all of this, what was his name?" asked Teagan as they entered the courtyard, "his name was Jowan" replied Isolde a slight crack in her voice, Teagan looked around to see a few of the skeletal creatures from the attacks on the town monitoring them, it was an uneasy feeling, one that was reminiscent of walking into a trap head first.
 
   Isoldes head had been hanging in shame since they began the walk up to the castle, but it was hanging its lowest as they walked into the main chamber,  it would be made clear why as Teagan  saw Connor, Isolde and Arl Eamon's young child standing as if he were the center of attention, "Connor are you alright?" asked a concerned Teagan, slowly approaching his nephew "So is this my newest plaything mother?" Connor asked Isolde, an otherworldly tinge to his voice, "yes connor" said Isolde with great regret ,"wait, what do you mean plaything? Connor what has gotten into you?" asked a confused Teagan continuing to approach Connor, "shut up uncle you're voice disgusts me, if you even utter another word I will silence you" exclaimed Connor the otherworldy tinge growing greater, "I expected an evil but I di......" was all Teagan was able to say as a sharp pain clawed at his head, as if control of himself was being wrenched from his very hands only to be placed in the hands of the Arl's now malevolent child.
   
  It was now up to the warden's...........
 
  Author's Note: 
  Okay, it official I write incredibly long chapters, but hey more bang for the buck.
  So yeah maybe there was not as much Jowan or as much of the castle crashing in this chapter as we all may have expected (I included) but I believe Teagan's little bit at the end was sufficent, however as you know shizz will happen next chapter, and the little twists start popping up, so keep reading cause I'll just keep writing.
 
  Thanks For Reading, Slim Warden

Modifié par Slim Warden, 17 avril 2010 - 11:27 .

[hardscrable]

Nice to see it developing , I hope you fill it out more.

[westiex9]

Keep going slim this is a good piece of work, like the fact your fanfic is dragon age from your characters viewpoint.

[Slim Warden]

Thanks for the comment West I appreciate it, and I'm also happy to say the next chapter will be up later today.
 Also I went back and did a little bit of editing, and such on the last three chapters.

Modifié par Slim Warden, 17 avril 2010 - 11:45 .

[Slim Warden]

(Chapter 4: An Afternoon Stroll In The Castle)
 
   Nearly a half an hour had past since The Group, and Drezdin, had entered the secret tunnel into the castle Red Cliffe,
Drezdin heard the whisper's of banter coming from his companions, Alistar and Morrigan conversed the most, however they're conversations were usually not as friendly as most, Alistar was always quick to antagonize the witch, and Morrigan was one to always insult Alistar's pride and intelligence, and while the Templar and Mage bickered, Sten and Leliana remained mostly quiet, apart from Sten's occasional annoyed sigh's, the bickering of the two other companions a distraction from the task at hand.
  
 
   They had finally reached the end of the dark tunnel only to find themselves in a room lit dimly by a single torch, the room had but a single door that led away from the tunnel, the obvious option being to open it, that was exactly what Drezdin did ,discovering that the tunnels led right into the dungeon's of the castle, "That's pretty convenient" remarked Drezdin to the odd placement of the tunnel in the dungeon.
  
   
    But his wit would not garner a response from his companions, as across the dimly lit hall of cells they heard the screams of a man, upon a closer look they saw a group of skeletal beings gathered around a cell, they quickly made they're way to the cell with weapons ready, Drezdin and Sten led the rush of the distracted brood, they're footsteps were swift across the stone of the dungeon's floor as they closed in on the brood.
  
 
    Drezdin opened the fray with sweep of his dual swords, cleaving one in half on his right, and swiping the legs off the other, his opening action was soon followed by Sten, who drove his great sword right through two of the skeletal minions skewering them with his blade, the two remaing creatures were swiftly taken down by a accurate shot of Leliana's bow, and a burst of frost magic from Morrigan, "so, I guess that means I'm the odd man out?" remarked Alistar who did not participate in the swift skirmish.
 
  Drezdin approached the bars of the cell the brood of skeleton's were clawing at, sheathing his blades as he did so, "THANK YOU!" exclaimed a man who slowly approached the door of the cell, "I'm truly grateful, if you hadn't of come I fear I would have been trapped in here forever" again stated the man, he was a slim fellow of medium height, his shoulder length black hair was unkempt as was his stubble, "so, who are you exactly?" asked a curious Drezdin as he stood at the door of the cell.
 
  "My name is Jowan, I'm, I'm a mage" replied Jowan a tinge of hesitance in his voice, "wait Drezdin, Bann Teagan mentioned something of a mage causing all this" stated Alistar who now stood at Drezdin's side, Drezdin glancing at Alistar before returning his gaze to Jowan, "Jowan, not to be blunt, but are you the mage that caused all of this?" asked the Cousland a serious tone in his voice, Jowan hung his head in a slight shame before replying "theres no point denying anything, uh I didn't cause this, I was sent to poison the Arl, but I've not done any of this, the creatures, and the evil, it wasn't me" was the reply from the Mage, the response garnered one from Alistar, "YOU WHAT?! how did you poison the Arl, and how did you even get near him?" interrogated Alistar a slight fire in his words, "I was sent by a Teryn Logaihn, I'm, well I'm a blood mage and he offered me safety if I performed this task" answered Jowan, a creak in his voice.
 
  "That still doesn't explain how you got near to the Arl" commented Drezdin ever in non chalant fashion, he seemed to have a nack for it,
Jowan let out a slight sigh before he retorted, "I was hired by the Arl's wife to teach her son connor, magic, and when the opportunity arose, I, I poisoned the Arl" explained Jowan, a cocktail of regret and fear in his voice, "the Arl's son is a mage?" was the response from Drezdin to Jowan's explanation,
"yes, his power only appeared recently, and the Arlyssa did not want anyone to find out about it, the Circle of Magi would've taken him away, and it would have been much for her" Jowan explained, "so if you did not cause this, do you think Connor is capable of all this?" questioned Drezdin as Alistar took a step back, the templar glaring at Jowan with disapproval.
 
   "He might be, I only taught him the simplest of spells but any mage can tear the veil between our world, and the spirit world, he might've tried to help his father, and opened a link between him and a Demon" stated Jowan who had enough of waiting for his faith to be decided, "so what are you going to do with me?" asked a anxious Jowan, Drezdin answered jowan's question with his arms crossed and his eyebrow slightly raised "if I let you out what exactly are you going to do?"  was the response from a curious Cousland, Alistar distraught by the thought of releasing an apostate, "you aren't seriously considering letting him go, are you?  what if he caused all of this?" asked Alistar, a deep worry in his voice.
 
  Morrigan and Leliana added they're two sense to the conversation, "he might prove himself to be useful" remarked Morrigan, it was hard to tell if she really meant what she said, or if she was saying it in spite of Alistar, "he truly seems remorseful, everyone deserves a second chance, no?" was the comment from Leliana, a merciful tone in her voice.
  
   even Sten spoke, the Qunari stepping forward, "release a mage, pfft" Jowan responded immediately after Sten's cold comment, "please, I didn't cause this I already told you, I'm not in fighting shape, but if you let me go I will do what I can to help, just please" spoke Jowan his words sincere, or at least sincere sounding, "very well I'll let you go, but don't you dare try anything" said Drezdin as he opened the cell door, after Caesar retrieved the key  off one of the dead skeletal creature's.
 
  "Thank you, if you just give me a minute, I'll wait until you clear a way then I'll look for anyone who needs help" said Jowan as he cautiously walked out of his cell, "very well we got to get moving anyway" remarked Drezdin as he motioned his companions to start moving again, leaving Jowan behind,
"are you a gambling man or something?" asked a distressed Alistar, as they cautiously walked off, "no but I occassionally get abnormally lucky" was the quick response  from Drezdin, before Alistar retorted "well I hope you're luck really works, you know with all the risks you take with mages and all"  was the comment from the templar as they got to the task at hand
                                
                      ****()****
 
   The group ascended from the dungeon, an aura of caution surrounded them as they were taken by surprise by a group of creatures, just prior to finding the dungeons exit, the group found themselves in a hallway, there were two doors to they're left, one very close, and one further down on the opposite wall from the other, and to the right of that door was a right turn, Alistar who knew the castle having spent a part of his youth in its stone halls spoke,
"I believe this is the barracks and servant's quarters, and if I'm not mistaken I believe that the door on the left leads into the caste's temple"  explained Alistar trying to aqauint his companions with his former home.
 
  Drezdin nodded his head as he motioned the group to follow, he slowly creaked open the door to the castle's room of faith ever vigilant of danger, as he took the first purposeful steps into the room he witnessed a creature unlike any he had seen the night before, or in his life, the demonic shade lunged at him move as if it were nothing more than a shadow enveloped in smoke, Drezdin stood firm facing the shade head on, plunging the blade from his right hand into the oncoming opponent, impaling that entity causing it dissipate into nothing.
 
   The small confrontation would not remain small as a duo of shade like entities appeared, but they were quickly dispatched by the group, Sten bringing his two handed weapon down upon one as Morrigan froze it's compatriot in place Alistar taking the duty of shattering it.
 

  The sound of the skirmish did not go unnoticed as Drezdin heard a loud wailing come from outside the chantry room, looking to his left he noticed another door, the sound of many skeletal feet falling was enough for Drezdin to take action, shouting as he pointed to the door they entered from, "STEN! shut that door, and hold it shut!, me and Alistar will get the other" ordered the Cousland, as he and Alistar rushed to the opposite door slamming it shut just before the brood had reached it.
 

  They held the doors firmly shut as they heard clawing on the other side, the doors started to fail as a small breach was made in Sten's, the Qunari warrior held the door shut despite the hole which Leliana had moved in close to fire arrows through the hole keeping at bay any creature seeking to widen the gap, as Sten's had been damaged so would the Warden's, as large hole was made at shoulder height the creature's reaching in through the hole trying to get a grip on one the two warrior's denying them entry.
 

  One of creature's managed to get a hold on Alistar's injured shoulder, while he was wearing his armor his shoulder pad had been damaged last night, and the creature just barely managed to sink its claws into the bandaged wound, " EUGH! why, just why?" hollered Alistar in anguish before Drezdin tore the arm of the creature off, snapping it at the elbow, Drezdin had spent the last few minutes pressing his left shoulder against the door, he slowly shifted his body pressing his back against the still bombarded door, he glanced back to Leliana who was slashing at any creature attempting to reach through the hole in Sten's door, her bow unuseable as she exhausted her supply of arrows, Caesar was also aiding Sten gnawing on the arm of a creature that had broken a hole near the bottom of the door.
 

  Morrigan who had been standing in the center of the room looking focused, started to form a ball of lightning in her hands, she twisted the lightning in her palms confidently, taming the ever growing ball a slight grin on her face as she readied to release it, Drezdin knew what Morrigan planned to do, a slight nod was his signal, before grabbing Alistar pulling them both to the ground, away from the, door.
 
   The door splintered and cracked, utterly being destroyed outwards as the lightning smashed through, maiming the door and the large mass of demonic thralls on the other side, and as quickly as Morrigan had decimated one door, she moved on to the next, "GET AWAY FROM THE DOOR!" Screamed Drezdin, yelling out his order as he swiftly stood up from the ground.
  
   Leliana, Sten and Caesar as soon as Drezdin gave the command jumped out of the way, and as  soon as the trio ducked away, Morrigan was ready to unleash the spell, " let us end this" spoke the Witch as She unleashed her lightning, it smashed through yet another door, a loud crack was heard as it decimated every creature gathered on the opposite side, not even the smallest of ****aroches would've survived the blast.
 
  As the smoke settled and the battle seemed over, Drezdin helped his friend Alistar back up to his feet, "okay, lets not get stuck in a room surrounded by evil Skeleton thing's ,ever again" remarked Alistar a tinge of pain in his voice, his bandaged injury had been reopened and was starting to slightly bleed again, "well despite the room of doom experience, I think our castle crashing is going quite well" stated Drezdin, a confidence in his voice, "well if its not to much of a trouble, I suggest we move on before another horde of evil pops out of the earth" said Morrigan, her spells having spared them from a truly bloody battle, Drezdin nodded agreeing with her suggestion, "alright, lets move" was the command from the young Cousland.
 
   The group proceeded to leave the chantry room, the evidence of Morrigan's magical capabilities littered the floor around the exit, the charred remains of they're demonic enemies littering the stone ground, "lovely" sarcasticly stated Drezdin at the sight of Morrigan's work, ever watchful as the group proceeded to venture further into the castle's barracks.

    
                         ****()****
 

  The group manuevered they're way through the barracks, encountering precious little opposition, except a pair of rabid hounds that must have  been released from the castle's kennel, but the castle was quite in an eery sense, the very aura of evil surrounded the Company as they made they're way further into the castle, they were soon to find themselves in yet another hallway,
ever vigilant they examined each room, dealing with the occasional shambling corpse, but as they entered the second to final  room they found not a creature, but somethingelse.
 
   Drezdin creaked open the door only to met by a flung porcelain vace, the object shattered on Drezdin's forearm as he reacted quickly to protect his face, "okay who threw that?" questioned Drezdin as he peered into the dimly lit room, "I did sir, I thought you were one them monster's coming to kill me" replied a frightened young woman, "well you're safe now, my name is Drezdin, and I'm saving  this castle" said Drezdin trying comfort the scared girl with charm, "I'm Valena I'm a servant here in the castle, the creatures they took everyonelse I know not what they did with them" explained Valena franticly, she was obviously rattled by the experience.
  
   "Wait Valena? Drezdin isn't that the daughter of the blacksmith?" asked Alistar remembering the drunken smith from the other day, "I believe she is, and Valena you should get out of here, back the way I came there is a secret passage in the dungeon, it should lead you out" stated Drezdin to the frightened Valena, "I, I'm not sure about that, but its better than waiting here to die, thank you" replied Valena, the girl running off in a flash, "hopefully Jowan will stay true to his word, and help that girl" said Alistar still unsure of letting the blood mage out of that cell.
 

   From that point the group continued at a rapid pace, rushing through small packs of creatures until they reached the large door to the main hall, Drezdin first attempted to open it, discovering that it was locked he attempted to break it down, landing a fierce kick in the center of the wooden door but it would not budge, "Alistar, think you can remeber any detours?" asked Drezdin after he reeled back from his failed door breaking, "well I think there might be a way around throught the kitchen, I remember them mentioning that the cellar led out to the courtyard" replied Alistar, "well let us move" remarked Sten always straight forward and brash.
   
  
   The group barged throught the kitchen's door, finding the room swarming with skeletal brood, Drezdin again made the first move, using the blunt end of one his dual blades to knock the head off one, before impaling one upwards through the jaw, he was joined by Alistar and Sten who hacked past and Drezdin missed, while Leliana who had found a new quiver of arrows in the barracks provided support.
 
   They made they're way out of the kitchen after clearing it out rushing through the cellar finding themselves in a courtyard full of demon thrall, as Drezdin prepared for another skirmish he felt himself being pulled through a void, he was dragged by some form of dark magic from one end of the courtyard to the other, and as control of his body returned he realised he was in the presence of an imposing figure dressed in heavy plate, standing nearly seven feet tall.
  
   The figure sought to drive one of it dual swords into Drezdin's chest, but was twarted as Drezdin shifted his body right and used one of his own blades to shift the demons blade left, as Drezdin got his bearings again he was bombarded by the imposing man like creature, blocking each swing of his opponents, clashing blades so hard they sparked, and as soon as the battle seemed like it was to stalemate, Drezdin swung both of his blades with a great force, startling the balance of his opponent, swing now with each blade individually bombarding his opponent, sending him reeling before he stuck the final blow severing its head.
 
   Drezdin's one on one with the creature was over, and so was the battle in the courtyard, his companion's slaying they're opponents just as Drezdin slew his, they regrouped outside the entrance to the castle, and with a nod of approval from each companion Drezdin threw open the doors.
                            

                           ****()****
 

  Drezdin, and Company marched into the main hall were they were greeted by a dancing Teagan, "by the maker's breath what has happened here?" asked a distraught Alistar as the group turned their attention from the Bann to the child standing as if he were a ruler, " so you are the one that destroyed my forces and belayed my attempts to reclaim my town, Mother please explain to our guests that he has ruined my enjoyment today" said the now otherworldly Connor, glancing over to Lady isolde who was standing at his side, "Connor, this man is just trying to help us, he's just trying to help" was Lady Isolde's attempt to explain Drezdin's purpose to Connor, "HELP! if they wished to help why not just say so, all of this bloodshed could've been avoided" retorted Connor rejecting isolde's explanation "now mother, ask our guests why are they here?" ordered Connor, just prior to being interrupted by Drezdin.
 
   "I can answer that, I'm here to stop you from hurting more innocent people and they're families" retorted Drezdin a sharpness in his voice, the reply did not come from connor but from the enthralled Teagan, "NOBODY CAN STOP HIM, NOBODY HAH!" exclaimed the disillusioned Bann, "shut it uncle, I told you not to speak again or else, but back to you my guest they're is no stopping me" remarked Connor the otherworldly tinge he possessed still strong in his voice.
 
   "So said Teagan, but any thing can be halted" again non chalantly replied Drezdin, Connor grew frustrated, "enough of this, you wi...." Connor was interrupted by Isolde who grabbed her son's arm, "PLEASE CONNOR! remember who you are, please stop this" begged Isolde Connor losing his demonic influence for just a moment, "Mother? what happ....." Connor was again taken over by the dark presence "NO! get away from me foolish woman, you, you will all suffer" stated Connor as he broke free from Isolde's grasp, and ran.
 
    Drezdin noticed the guards, and Teagan had drawn they're weapons, the now Connor controlled men proceeded to close in on the group,
"I know they have no choice, but neither do we" stated Drezdin on the moral complexity of the situation, planting his feet as Teagan charged his with his longsword swinging, Drezdin parried the swing of the Bann's blade before knocking him out with strike from his pommel,
Sten had no mercy for his attackers, cleaving through each one with ease, Morrigan as well spared none of the men attacking her, striking each one down with blast of frost, or a bolt of lightning, Alistar tried his best not to fatally injure but know it was him or them, Leliana fighting with the same mindset.
 
   As the battle ended many of the enthralled guards laid dead, with only Isolde visually unharmed, as she rushed over to a slowly awakening Teagan, " Teagan are you alright?" asked the Orlesian woman, "yes, just a slight headache" replied the Teagan as he sat up, "yeah that would be my pommel's fault" remarked Drezdin as sheathed his weapons, "its quite alright, just what are we supposed to do now" asked Bann Teagan a look of real concern on his face, "I really don't know, this doesn't seem like I can find a win, win in this situation" replied Drezdin confused on they're next course of action, "you cannot just kill my son, he's all me and Eamon have" pleeded Isolde before a slightly familar voice was heard.
 
   "Connor is no longer Connor milady, he's possessed by a demon" stated Jowan, the pale man stepping out the shadows "YOU!" screamed Isolde, "HE CAUSED ALL OF THIS!" Isolde continued to scream, "well not to act wise, but you're actions brought this upon you, and you're family" replied Drezdin a severity in his voice, " how dare you, you know nothing of protecting the thing you love most, how would you feel if someone was trying to take it from you,  how would you feel?" scornfully replied Isolde, "do not speak to me like you know of me, you don't" was the response of Drezdin wrath and sorrow slightly radiating from his voice.
 
  "Calm yourself my friend, but he is right Isolde" replied Teagan trying to calm the two down, "but is they're anyother way?" asked a distraught isolde, "well there is a way if I could open a portal to the fade, the realm that this demon resides in, and send another mage into the realm to free Connor from the demon that holds him" stated suggested Jowan.
 
   "Great, but something tells me theres a catch" remarked Drezdin, crossing his arms, the cousland leaning against one of the two large tables in the main hall,  "well yes there is a catch, without the sufficent energy provided by the substance lyrium a portal cannot be opened, but I could use blood magic to sacrifice a willing being to open the portal" replied Jowan as the blood mage slowly walked into the center of the room.
   
   "NO! we cannot let him use blood magic, its, its just not right, and either way where would we find a willing sacrifice" remarked Alistar as he waved his arms in disapproval of Jowan's plan, "I would be the willing sacrifice" exclaimed Isolde, "he is my son, I should be the one to sacrifice them self for him" stated Isolde as she hung her head in shame, Teagan was speechless at the idea.
 

  "Wait wait wait" hollered Alistar, "the Circle of Magi has lyrium in large quantities, and its barely two days away" exclaimed Alistar, a slight smile on his face, "and we do have a treaty that pretty much obligates them to help, so if we can make it there and back again within the next few days, we can save Connor, but that just leaves the question what is he going to do while we're gone?" resonded Drezdin a slight ponderance in his voice.
  
   "Well I could stay here, and make sure the damage he can produce is kept to a minimum" stated Jowan, the plans becoming clear to everyone in the room, "I will not kill you, or you're son Lady Isolde, the Arl deserves to atleast awaken to his family when this is all over" was Drezdin's goodbye as he motioned his companions to start heading out, "good luck my friends, i will do my best to monitor Connor aswell" said Teagan, he know the next few day would be painfully anxious.
 
   "We're heading to the mages tower to bring back a bunch of robed sheep to rescue the child, it seems so impractical when we have the option to save him now" remarked Morrigan as the group began to depart, "think of it this way, if we manage to pull this off, and save the Arl's family anymore death, he'll be inclined to help us just on the principle of it all" diplomaticly replied Drezdin as they marched out of the main hall, they're journey to that mages tower
just beginning.

     ****()****
 

   Author's Note:
  Okay the promise of castle crashing, and Jowan that was made two chapters ago has been fullfilled, and i think I handled Jowan well, he always seemed a
bit whiny to me but I didn't want to type cast him do a 180 with his character, aswell as being insistently whiny at parts in the game (Mage's Origin Story*COUGH, COUGH*) he also had this sorta I feel sorry for you, you lying blood mage type person vibe going, I was sad when he never got past Arl Eamon(spoiler, sorta) but I guess he was never meant to go further.
  Aswell as that i sorta found it hard not to paraphrase the game when Bann Teagans under Connor's control, I sorta have a promise to myself to keep dialouge from the game as far away as possible, and only reference it every now and again but it was not a direct qoute so I think I'm safe.
  So on a final bit  any feedback is still appreciated.
 
  P.S. I think I'm getting better at this writing thing.
 
   Thanks For Reading, Slim Warden.
  
  
 
   

Modifié par Slim Warden, 18 avril 2010 - 09:01 .

[westiex9]

lol Abnormally lucky i like Drezdins style!

[Slim Warden]

      (Chapter 5: On The Road Again)

    It had been six hours since the events at Red Cliffe Castle,  Drezdin and Co’  had rushed out of Red Cliffe barely stopping to grab they’re packs, and accept thanks from the town’s black smith for rescuing his Daughter from the castle.
 
  The north east road out of Red Cliffe was the fastest way to the Circle Of Magi,  Drezdin and his band of followers marched through the afternoon, and kept up the pace even as night fell, a sense of urgency ran through the troupe as they pushed onward, barely a word being spoke as they pushed themselves on a forced march, but as the sun retreated, and the moon and stars became they’re only light, the events of the day caught up with them, the group had little choice but to camp and continue tomorrow.
 
  The group and Drezdin  chose a camping site a fair distance from the road, there were rumors that Teryn Logaihn’s recent treachory had flung the country into civil war, and with knowledge that Logaihn wanted them dead they were not going to risk waking  to a group of Logaihn’s men in the morning.
 
   Drezdin  sat near the fire watching as the flames seemed to dance, he always had a affinity of fire, its beauty its grace ,  its natural power of destruction, all these things entranced Drezdin as a child, and he still was humbled by the flames that lit up they’re camp, sitting at least a foot away from Drezdin was his fellow warden Alistar, who was changing the bandage of his shoulder wound.
 
   “Ouch, ouch that’s not very good, Drezdin do you think that they’ll have healers at the Circle of Magi? This gash is not looking very, um  attractive” exclaimed Alistar, the wound he sustained being very deep, and was causing Alistar a lot of distress, “why Alistar is it bleeding again?” Asked Drezdin, a tone of concern filled his voice as he turned to Alistar taking his gaze off the dancing fire.
 
  “Well no, it just hurts, REALLY  bad, and it might get nasty you know puss, and all that oozing stuff that makes the world go round “ said Alistar comically as he continued to put  the new bandage on the wound, wincing every once in a while as he shifted his shoulder, “well Alistar we’ll try to reach the Tower by tomorrow” replied Drezdin gazing again into the campfire, “Drezdin I know you’re busy staring at fire and all, but the witch is staring at you” remarked Alistar, catching a view of Morrigan who was a distance from the campfire.
 
   “And?” was the disengaged response from Drezdin, “well I think she might want to have word with you, or wants to roast you over an open fire, it’s a little hard to tell what her expression means from here” answered Alistar always quick to have a nip at the Apostate, “well, I guess I’ll go see what she wants, get some sleep Alistar , and try not to sleep on the bad shoulder” commented Drezdin, slowly standing up from his spot next to the fire, “oh I will head right to sleep, I don’t want to have nightmares of what she has planned for you” retorted Alistar as his Cousland friend started to walk off.
 
   Morrigan’s tent was at the western end of the camp,  always comfortable a distance from the rest of the group, as Drezdin slowly walked through they’re small camp, keeping his foot fall silent as not to wake the now sleeping Leliana, and his hound Caesar who was asleep next to Drezdin’s tent, he also walked past Sten who had volunteered to stand watch through the night,  he enjoyed the peace when no’ one else in the group was awake.
     
                        ****()****
 
  Drezdin approached morrigan, her demeanor was one that was cold, and seemed to warrant suspicion, her eyes were welcoming, but seemed to have a game in store for Drezdin and exactly what that game was, would soon be uncovered.
 
   “So, I get the feeling you want to say hi” stated Drezdin ever so matter of fact about it, as the Cousland approached the witch who let out a very short giggle before replying, “ as a matter of fact I did want to say hello, but there is something more pressing I want to speak with you of” answered Morrigan, her voice slightly playful,  “and what would be pressing about this subject exactly?” asked Drezdin his eyebrow raised in curiosity.
  
    “Well this matter ‘tis about you about you actually” replied Morrigan, the uncharacteristic tone still present in her voice, “about me? well I do like talking about me” replied Drezdin a very slight hesitance in his voice,  “well if you’re so willing to speak of yourself why not tell me of….” said Morrigan as she circled Drezdin stopping right behind him, before putting her head on his shoulder,  whispering in his ear, “you’re family” she whispered before  taking a step back .
 
  Drezdin was shocked by the question, he spun around to face Morrigan  a confused look in his eyes “well that’s, that is an odd question” replied Drezdin a slight tinge of defense in his voice, “yes you’re family, I’ am just curious how you are dealing” said Morrigan her cold and sever tone reemerging, “I’m fine, what happened is nothing we need to talk about” replied Drezdin, slightly unhinged from the game he had walked   blindly into, “really” said Morrigan her face one of disbelief.
  
   “If you were really fine, then why do you still dream about them?” said Morrigan, her eyebrow  slightly  raised as she asked the question,  “its not unusual for people to dream of loved ones, is it?” asked Drezdin a defensive tone now enveloping his voice, “if you‘re not affected, then why would you have us travel all the way to  the Circle of Magi to save the Arl’s brat son,  when  we had the most sensible option available back at the Castle?’ asked Morrigan, the severity of her voice sent chills through the camp, “it was a sensible decision, do you think the Arl would look at us in favor if we just killed his wife?” asked Drezdin in defense of his decision,  the cousland crossing his arms.
 
   “Anyone with sense would understand that the danger needed to be dealt with quickly, and even if we do get the mage’s aid, what of the Child? what if that Bann, and the Blood Mage can’t keep the Child contained what will we do if there is nothing to save when we get back?“  aggressively asked Morrigan pressing Drezdin hard, “you‘re just being skeptical Morrigan, have some faith” replied Drezdin forcing confidence to radiate from his voice,  “and what if I’ am right?  then our defense of that worthless town was a waste of time, we should’ve ended it when we had the chance, you know I speak the truth,  you were  foolish  letting you’re common sense be taken over by petty grief” retorted Morrigan.
 
  “I’ am not driven by petty grief, so stop acting like you know how I feel, I make my own decisions because I believe they‘re the right ones” said Drezdin trying to talk his way out of Morrigan’s game, a slight frustration now running through his demeanor,  “so you‘re just naturally irrational, such a relief” said Morrigan ,sarcasm permeating from her voice.
 
  Drezdin was not amused by the conversation he was sharing with Morrigan, the camp was now dark due to the fact Alistar put out the fire to avoid the attention of late night raiders, and as the warmth of the fire left the camp and the night became cold, so did Drezdin‘s attitude.
  
   Drezdin turned his back to Morrigan his head slightly  hung, “I’m done, I don‘t need to explain myself to you” said Drezdin, fed up with morrigan’s chastising   “you’re afraid fore what I say ‘tis true, you‘re taking risks all in the sake of feelings that garner weakness,  you‘re family is gone, and you need to accept that and move on, we are in too serious a situation to let you’re emotions interfere” retorted Morrigan as Drezdin started to walk away, “where are you going? I’m not  finished  speaking” remarked Morrigan to which she was met with a cold reply, “Well you can keep talking, I’m just not going to be the one listening” said Drezdin as he marched away onward through the moonlit night back to his tent.

                 ****()****

  The sun had risen on a new day, not that Drezdin had really noticed he spent the night drifting in and out of sleep, tormented by nightmares and morrigan’s lecture,  he had spent a majority of his waking night just staring at the roof of his tent, the formerly white fabric now tarnished by dirt and other elements.
 
  Drezdin vacated his tent, and began taking it down as his traveling companions all began to wake, Alistar being the first of the group to greet him,  “good morning my fellow Warden, ready to set out on our cheery stroll to the Circle?” greeted Alistar, a cheerful tone in his voice, “as ready as I’ll ever be” replied Drezdin barely engaged as he undid his tent, “oh, I’m guessing you had a rough night, and don’t tell me with morrigan?” asked Alistar, a slight disgust radiated from his voice as he said the witch’s name.
  
   “You have no idea” was the response from Drezdin still not pleased with the prior nights events, “okay I’m guessing it wasn’t pleasant, and I’ll stop talking about it” said Alistar who had just started cleaning up his place in the camp, “I’d appreciate that” replied Drezdin as he finished packing up his spot, “Alistar just a question, do you have the loaf of bread from Red Cliffe?  I could use a breakfast ” said Drezdin turning to Alistar who had finished cleaning up.
  
  “Um, don’t you have our food?”  asked Alistar curiously, “no Alistar we gave the responsibility of the food to you” answered Drezdin a slightly  bemused tone, “oh, well uh, I don’t have it, but before you say anything I already told you I’m not one to be put in charge of anything’’ replied Alistar as Drezdin let out a slight sigh of frustration, “great, we’ll just have to keep an eye out for food on the road” said Drezdin slightly disappointed.
 
  An hour passed as the  group packed up the camp, going without a proper meal except a small wild berry bush that Caesar found soon after waking, Drezdin nary said a  word to the group as they again found themselves on the dusty dirt road, he marched at the front blocking out most of the conversations being held behind him, his mind was currently a thunder storm of doubt as they cautiously traversed the road.
 
  It was the middle of the afternoon as they marched a still silence surrounding they’re purposeful leader his attention sturdily forward until a detour by Sten would force him to speak as he heard the Qunari veer into the woods west of the road, turning around as the rest of the group stopped.
 
   “STEN!” screamed Drezdin as the Qunari disappeared into the woods, a sigh of further frustration was let out by Drezdin as he motioned his hound to his side, “everyone stay here, Caesar and I are going to play fetch the Qunari” exclaimed Drezdin as he ran off dog in tow to retrieve they’re ally, “very well, I’ll make sure no Darkspawn  kidnap us while you’re gone” replied Alistar as Drezdin entered the woods.
 
  Drezdin and Caesar only had to march a few yards west before stumbling upon a strange clearing, the clearing looked as though it had been a campsite a while ago, a burnt out fire in the center surrounded by what seemed to be looted decomposed bodies, and standing in the midst of it all, was Sten calmly searching through the grim scene.
   
   “So Sten, you wouldn’t happen to know what in the bloody hell happened here, would you?” glibly asked Drezdin as he approached the imposing Sten, “I do” bluntly replied Sten still examing the area as Drezdin and Caesar stood there watching, “well please do explain” stated Drezdin a slight impatience entering his voice, “my kith was killed here and I need to find a sword” replied Sten as he kneeled down to examine a crumpled piece of parchment, “so the group you used to travel died here, and you’re looking for a weapon?”
 Said a slightly puzzled Drezdin , Sten standing up and then swiftly approaching Drezdin.
  
   The tall Qunari marched up to the Cousland, holding a weathered piece of parchment to Drezdin’s face, “this, what doe’s it say?” asked the ever straight forward Sten, as Drezdin took the paper to examine it, “well Sten its sort of been ruined by the elements, but what I can make out implies someone looted this spot, then left to go trade in Orzammar” replied Drezdin as he further examined the parchment, “I think it’s a letter of sale, he must’ve sold the looting rights to whoever left this here”.
  
   “Where is this Orzammar?’ asked Sten as Drezdin let the paper fall to the ground, “well its pretty far northwest, but we’re going to be heading there to recruit the Dwarves at some point” replied Drezdin as Sten slowly started to head back to the road, “understood, when we do reach Orzammar I must find my sword” said Sten as the Trio started to head back to rest of the group waiting on the road.
 
   “Well Sten what exactly does this sword mean to you?’ asked the curious Cousland as they neared the group, “now is not the time” bluntly replied Sten, “really? And it was the time to go running off in  the woods in search of a sword?” replied Drezdin tinge of sarcasm in his words, Sten would not provide an answer as they and the rest of they’re companions regrouped and continued they’re trek north, Drezdin explaining to the rest why Sten took his detour.

            ****()****

   Six hours had passed as the group continued there walk to the Circle of Magi, while the Circle was within hours of being reached the group had decided to set up camp once again, Drezdin suggesting that getting assistance from the Mage’s in the morning would be more reasonable, considering they could start the march back to Red Cliffe the same day they reached the tower.
  
    The group again camped a distance from the road, wary of the dangers that roamed the roads at night,
 the camp was set next to a small pond of water that shone in the cloudless night, the moon illuminating the usually bleak setting of Fereldan’s nights.
 
  Drezdin had taken over the responsibility of being the watchman from Sten, he had not slept well recently for the past week, and figured his time would be better spent observing the happenings of the night instead of spending half the night waking up in the wee hours staring at the ceiling of his tent.
 
   Drezdin’s mind at this moment was like parchment being wrenched in half neither side being clear,
but written upon this paper were ideals, beliefs, and virtues penned and taught through out the years , but also gracing the surface was a sinister half marked by the kiss of a manipulator, preaching pragmatism and practicality, trying to force itself upon the rest of page, the Cousland was not sure which side was right and he doubted that neither was wrong.
 
  The Cousland slowly moved over to the small pool of water at the edge of the camp, putting his hands in the cool water, copping the pristine water in his hands and splashing his face, Drezdin did it twice as doubt seeped into his decisions and the parchment of his mind started to be enveloped by Morrigan’s ink, and it would have been if not for an interruption.
 
  “What is lost is never really lost forever” said a soft voice behind Drezdin, the displaced noble quickly spun around to see the petit figure of Leliana, “what exactly do you mean?” asked Drezdin as sat down on a log that had fallen near the pool, “I’ve been watching you today, and you have the look of someone who has lost something”  said Leliana as she took a seat on the log a foot away from Drezdin, “so you’ve been watching me?” asked Drezdin playfully curious.
 
   “Well yes you are very much our leader and we all watch you, why do you disapprove of me watching?” replied Leliana, “no, I rather enjoy the being watched by a beautiful woman” replied Drezdin charmingly as he looked over to Leliana, “flatterer, I bet you tell that to all the minstrels?” said Leliana as she looked back at Drezdin, “that I’ am, and only to the beautiful ones” replied Drezdin with a grin.
 
   “really? Well let us get back to my point before you try to distract me again, yes?” said Leliana her eyebrow slightly raised, “sure I will not distract you, you have my word” replied Drezdin, “you look troubled, and I just wanted to tell you that when you lose something, it doesn’t just cease to exist” stated Leliana a somber tone to her voice, “these lost things are always found but not always the same, such as the flower you gave me, even though my Mother is dead I still find her in the scent of its pedals” spoke the Minstrel her words weaved with what seemed to be silver.
 
  Drezdin nodded his head as he stared attentively, as she continued to speak, “and myself, I became a minstrel because I love music and stories, my Mother sang, and told me tales so I think it obvious that is why I became who I’ am yes?” said Leliana as Drezdin contemplated her words.
  
    “You can move forward from what was lost, but you must not forget the lost that made you who you are” explained Leliana, Drezdin replied, the parchment clear of the taint that stained it just minutes ago, “thank you, I think I needed that’ said Drezdin a relief in his voice, “you are very welcome” said Leliana as she stared up at the night sky, “so, what exactly are you doing up this late, it couldn’t be to talk me out of my morbid moment?” glibly asked Drezdin as he looked curiously at the red headed Rogue.
 
  Leliana looked back at the Cousland, “I saw the moon was full, and I thought it would be nicer to look at it with someone, no?” answered Leliana, Drezdin looked up at the moon realizing for the first time that night the round shining celestial object, “I guess it would be nicer” replied Drezdin as the two stared up at the stars, the night sky littered with the twinkles of lights, and other than the occasional humming from Leliana, the night was silent.

   ****()****

  Author’s Note:
 Okay that was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to write, and I pray to god I got it right, trying to write all those characters in one chapter is difficult but fun at the same time. (YEAH!)
  Just a musical reference during the last quarter of the chapter was written while listening to Yellow by Coldplay (Awesome song) and I think the chapters are getting longer each time, I don’t know if that good or bad.
  
  And  I would also like to share a little dark humor related to our protagonist Drezdin, his name was a take off the city called Dresden, which is a  city in Germany that had incendiary bombs dropped on it  by Allied Forces during World War 2, and large parts of the city were burned down.
 
  And in my first play through of the game my character was always being set on fire by Mages, Dragons, and every other flammable object in sight, so on my next play through I decided to use the name Drezdin as a reference to the city, and that way I could use the irony as a way to laugh through the pain.
 
   Thanks For Reading, Slim Warden.

Modifié par Slim Warden, 22 avril 2010 - 09:29 .

[westiex9]

The part in which leliana talks about death is really well done!

[Gilgamesh1138]

Oh, I can't wait to post my next chapter on FF to tell people to read this! Great job Slim!

[Slim Warden]

  (Chapter 6: Most Lack Practicality)
 

  Drezdin awoke after an hour long nap, he had fallen asleep at the break of dawn as the rest of the group  awoken,  he sat up after finding himself laying on his side, the log that he and leliana had sat upon to stargaze his barky bed for the short time.
 
  As Drezdin finally came too he soon found that he was not the only one in proximity to the pool of water at the edge of camp, “finally awake I see Warden, ‘tis good that danger did not swoop down upon us in you‘re rest” said a familiar and seductive voice, “are you going to make this a habit Morrigan?” curiously asked Drezdin as  morrigan took a seat next to the Warden.
 
  “Make what a habit?” replied Morrigan her tone ever so sultry, “oh, you know questioning my every action, that new hobby you are so enthralled by these days” said Drezdin running his fingers through his now messy hair trying to put it back in its usual form, “well that depends doesn’t it, are you going to heed my   advice?” said Morrigan as Drezdin finished fooling with his hair.
  
   “To be honest I think I’ll ignore it, after all you’re adorable when you’re annoyed” charmingly said Drezdin, turning to meet Morrigan’s disapproving eyes, “ ’tis not what I expected, but very well Drezdin……’” spoke Morrigan, her demeanor  changing from disapproving to what one would expect from a Minx.

    She started  developing a small grin as she leaned over to Drezdin, they’re lips nary an inch away from each other, “but you will come to see things my way” whispered Morrigan in a seductive tone before she retreated, leaving Drezdin rather confused and alone on a log.
 
  Caesar strode up beside his master the mabari after Morrigan left, he was not entirely fond of the witch,  but Drezdin did not know what exactly to think of Morrigan she was an interesting woman,  albeit a tad vain, smug and narcissistic,  she is also a beauty, an untamed gem that was as dangerous as it was enthralling at the same instant, Drezdin know he had to be wary of her, but he found himself vulnerable to her charms as well, after all lust is an escape from grief, and she had let him escape before.

  Drezdin quickly put aside his female distraction as the group prepared to continue they’re journey to the mages tower, it was a quick cleanup to the camp even with a small but rather messy breakfast as made by Alistar who had unwittingly stumbled upon a nest of bird eggs, Alistar refused to share the tale of how he found them.
   
  ****()****
 
  The Circle Of Magi was not an often visited place, the Tower itself sat ominously in the center of lake Calenhad, and only one dock had any rights to ferry men or women across the lake to the tower, and even then most visitors had to be verified by the Templar’s, the ever vigilant guardians that kept a constant watch on the Mages ensuring that the Chantry always had a grasp on the world of Magic.
 
  Drezdin had been told tales of the Tower as a child, and he was not disappointed, the displaced Noble gazing out at the tower as the group approached a small wharf, that was home to very, very few residents or even visitors, the most common folk around the wharf were fishermen who fished out in the lake for the rare and valuable catch, the lake had become full of strange and dangerous nautical creatures after years of the Circle dumping rejected potions, and experiments into the lake.
  
   But even they never lingered long, usually spending the afternoon at the wharf’s lonely inn for a drink before heading wherever they’re  home may be, most men were wary of Mages and never wanted to be caught in the path of an escaping mage, or any Circle dealing that reached the Wharf.
 
  Drezdin and his companions had traveled for most of the morning and the sight of they‘re destination was a welcome one, the late morning was usually one of bustle as fishermen tried to sell they’re odd catches from the early morn, , they were mostly bought by the occasional traveling nobles looking for a petty souvenir, as no peasant would be so touched in the head to buy a potential death warrant.
 
  But a bustling wharf it was not as all the boats seemed to beached, and the sound of frustrated and drunk men spilled out of the nearby Inn, Drezdin knew that something was amidst, as the group marched up the wharf , the morning breeze blew a damp  breeze as they approached the single Templar occupying the docks.
 
  “ EH! Who goes there? Asked the Templar as he stood up, looking as though he had been sitting there for an eternity, “look if the fishermen want to go out, tell them they have to wait until my commander sends word that they‘re allowed to” said the Templar a frustration and weariness in his voice.
 
  “Look I don’t know what exactly you’re on about, but I really need to get to the mages tower” said Drezdin not amused by the turn of events, “oh really, well then exactly who might you be making demands  like you own the place?” said the Templar an impolite tone in his voice, “well who might you be to turn me away?” said Drezdin his left eyebrow slightly raised, still not amused, “me? Well I asked you first” replied the Templar.
 
  “He is a childish one isn’t he?” said Morrigan as she stood just off to the left behind Drezdin, “I‘m a Grey Warden, my name is Drezdin,  and I‘m supposed to be very charming, or so  I‘ve been told”  replied Drezdin always with an attitude as if chalant did not exist, “oh really, the last part I can almost believe , but aren’t  Grey Warden’s suppose to more flashy and grand?” said the Templar just on the brink of it being  insulting.
 
  Alistar had somewhat lost his patience as he spoke next, “and you’re name would be?” asked Alistar, the Templar looking oddly confounded, “well my name?  I’m not telling you my name,  you can just call me Tim” said the Templar enjoying his little game, Drezdin knew how to play games and he was not about to forget, “its rather obvious that something has gone hellishly wrong up in that Tower, couldn‘t you use a little assistance?” asked Drezdin with a sly grin, to the Templar who called himself Tim.
 
   “Well  I can‘t really say what’s happened, but go on” said the now attentive Templar, “Tim if you’re commander found out that you turned away assistance, what do you think he will do?” slyly asked Drezdin, the Cousland crossing his arms, “well I don’t know if you really mean to help and he told me not to let anyone past, he‘d have a right go at me if I let you through“ said Tim unsure of Drezdin‘s  gesture of assistance, “and if what I say be true, then you look like a bleeding genius” Drezdin replied in a matter of fact sort of tone,  trying to sway Tim.
 
  “Well you seem pretty sharp, and you make decent sense” remarked the Templar, “you don‘t say?” sarcastically replied Drezdin taking some delight in what he knew was a verbal victory, “well a bit of a smart arse, but I’ll take you, you, you and definetly you” said the Templar as he pointed to Drezdin, Alistar, leliana, and Morrigan.
  
   Sten and Caesar looked at the armor clad Templar curiously as it seems they were being forgotten, “and them, its not like we can just tie the two to a tree?” asked Alistar curious about the current situation,  “it’s a small boat” explained Tim, “and you can’t make two trips why?” asked Drezdin slightly bemused by the Templar.

   “Well I’ll be in enough trouble bringing four  on the ferry let alone six, and besides that tall one over there keeps giving me the creeps and I’m no good with dogs, so this is the deal take it or leave it” said the Templar called Tim as he extended his hand for a handshake, Drezdin with little choice shook on the deal, ‘being two short is better than not reaching the tower at all’ Drezdin thought to himself.
 
   Drezdin took Caesar and fastened a rope to his collar, “Sten think you can watch my dog, and my pack?” asked Drezdin as he looked up at the imposing Sten, “yes” bluntly replied the Qunari, slightly frustrated that he had been put on dogwatch duty as he took the makeshift leash and backpack from Drezdin, “thanks, and Caesar you be good I don‘t want to find you two caught in some ripe mess when I return” were Drezdin’s words of farewell as he and the rest of the group took they’re place in Tim’s small water craft, Caesar whining as they started rowing across the lake, ready to face whatever trouble that greeted them within the Tower.
  

     ****()****
 
  The five occupants of the boat after a short time traversing the strange waters of lake Calenhad had finally reached the tower, while the small wharf they docked upon was not very impressive, the entryway of the the tower was nothing if not impressive, two tall doors of brass and steel barred the way into the Circle, the group approached the foreboding doors as the one they came to know as Tim knocked loudly upon the door,
 

   The heavy door slowly creaked apart, the two Templars that had pried it open were covered from head to toe in armor, even they’re faces covered by helmets, Tim strode in, Drezdin and Co obliged and followed, Tim without hesitation led them straight through the chaos, Drezdin glanced around the room to see Templars frantically running around, grabbing arms, and gathering around a door equal in size to the one they entered through.

   Tim led them to a man who’s grey hair and beard showed he was a veteran Templar, he seemed so distracted ordering his charges that he barely noticed the group of five approach until they were but a few feet away,  “Carrol?  I thought I told you explicitly not to let anyone across the lake?” said the grizzled Commander to the Templar who’s name was not Tim at all, “well that bloke right there, said he was a grey warden and that he could help us” said Carrol pointing ominously back at Drezdin.
 
    “And so its to late to send them back without greeting them, my name is Greagoir and you’re name would be?” greeted Greagoir, the Templar commander curious of the groups intent, “I’m Drezdin, and I‘m guessing this place has seen better days?”  said Drezdin in a very matter of fact tone, “very observant I see ,but as you can tell this is no time for me to be beating around the bush, so why are you here?”  asked Greagoir with a very blunt tone, “well if we’re getting straight down to it, I’m in need of some mages but seeing as you’re barring the only other door, I’m guessing that’s not really an option?” replied Drezdin with a raised eyebrow.
 
  “No that is not an option” said Greagoir before letting out a frustrated sigh, “the tower is facing a rather delicate situation and it would probably be for the best if you were to leave” said Greagoir, “well fill us in on you’re “Situation” and maybe I can help, after all this isn’t the first place I’ve been to in the last few weeks where things have gone horrifically wrong” spoke the Cousland very non chalant like.

  “Well the situation is the tower is being overrun by demons and its likely that the Mages have been either killed or possessed” spoke Greagoir a very foreboding tone in his voice, “so what exactly do you plan to do,  the course of action cannot be to simply wait it out like cowards?” asked morrigan, the witch was very resentful to the Circle and the Chantry, “it is not, we’re waiting for the rite of annulment to arrive from Denerim, we sent a messenger and we’re hoping for reinforcements to come soon” answered the Templar Commander, not amused by Morrigan.
 
   “So essentially you’re waiting for the rite to arrive, so you can go and “cleanse” the Tower?’ asked Drezdin, “sad but it’s the only way” said Greagoir seemingly not adversely affected, “that cannot be the only way?” said Leliana a tinge of horror in her voice, “it isn’t, I need Mages to save a little boy, and you need someone to cleanup this mess, there must be survivors and if I can get to them it’ll save you a lot of trouble” proposed Drezdin attempting for the second time within an hour to sway a Templar.
 
   Greagoir stood pondering for what seemed like an eternity, he stroked his chin and beard while trying to contemplate the best course of action, before he finally spoke, “very well I will let you pass, but once you pass through those doors there will be no turning back until the Tower is purged of Demons, I cannot let out anyone if an abomination is among them” spoke Greagoir, explaining the terms of they’re agreement, “and how will you know the Tower is purged?” asked Drezdin making sure that the group and him were not being taken for a ride.
  
   “Well either we’ll get the rite of annulment burst in and find the place empty, or you can bring back the First Enchanter, and if he says the tower is cleansed then I’ll let you out, are you in agreement?” explained Greagoir as he extended his hand, Drezdin replied with a handshake, “what is it with you people and the touching?” uttered Morrigan under her breath.
 
   Greagoir led Drezdin and his Companions to the large door that led further into the Tower, ordering Carrol and another Templar to stand ready as they removed the doors barricade, just before they cautiously pried it open to a seemingly empty hallway, “well there you go, Maker be with you Wardens” spoke Greagoir as the Group passed through the open doorway into the forebiding hall the door slamming behind them, as they were now alone to face the horrors of the Tower.
 
    ****()****
 
   The group cautiously made they’re way down the hallway, occasionally peeking into the doors that led into what seemed like a large common area, beds were strewn about and blood seemed to stain the furnishings of the room, and the curving hallway was no different, the group drawing they’re weapons in readiness for whatever may come.
 
   As they approached the door end of the hall they heard a loud crash come from beyond it, Drezdin led the group as the barged through the wooden door nearly breaking the hinges, they found themselves within a large room and spacious room, the designs upon the ceiling, walls, and the lone pillar in the center of the room were a testiment to whoever built this vast wonder.
 
   But just as they found themselves in awe of the room they would find themselves witness to a masters display of magic,  they saw a woman clad in a Scarlett red robe blast away what appeared to be a fiery humanoid entity,  the Woman was familiar to Drezdin, the Cousland remembering a brief meeting at Ostagar.
  
   The woman turned her attention now to the Warden and his entourage,  the grey haired enchantress was in a defensive posture as she faced Drezdin and Co, the Mage stood between them and six other’s mostly children, and the other more mature half looked fatigued and stressed.
 
   “STAY BACK!” screamed the Elder Mage, wary of her new visitors, “uh yeah, I come in peace so you can stop aiming that magical tree branch at me” spoke Drezdin in a calm tone, “wait I remember you, the Warden Recruit, young man what are you doing here?” said the Grey Haired Woman curiously, dropping her guard just a tad, “well Wynne, and yes I remember you’re name, I need some assistance exorcising the demon from the Arl of Redcliffe’s son, and I thought this would be the best place to seek it” said Drezdin in his usual non chalant style.
 
   “Obviously we were mistaken” said Morrigan who stood beside the Cousland, “well that is grim news but the Circle is broken” said Wynne “but tell me how did you get past Greagoir?” asked Wynne a very curious look upon her wise face, “well the Templar’s are waiting for some rite, I offered to salvage the situation, I’m sort of have a time frame you know” replied Drezdin, Wynne looked ponderously at Drezdin.
 
   “And if I’m not mistaken, they will only let you out if you bring the First Enchanter back with you?” asked Wynne she knew the answer but she needed to confirm it, “she hit the nail on the head” said Alistar who stood directly behind Drezdin, “well as you can see I’ve put up a barrier between us and the inner Tower” said Wynne as she moved aside to give them a better view of the passageway, blocked by a glowing mass.
 
   “Well it was sort of hard to miss the blue sheet of magic emanating from the door” sarcastically said Drezdin, “don’t get wise with me young man, if you wish to pass then you’re going to have to take me with you” said Wynne a strong tone in her voice, “or we could just kill her, the barrier will fail just as easily” said Morrigan in a non chalant style akin to Drezdin’s except more sinister., much more sinister.
 
   Alistar shook his head in disapproval of Morrigan’s statement,  Drezdin just let out a sigh as he glanced at the witch, “Wynne, I appreciate the offer but what about you‘re six friends over there” said Drezdin pointing at the children and weary mages that occupied the room, “I trust that if we clear the way then they will need not worry, and I know this Tower from top to bottom, knowledge I doubt you possess” said Wynne the old Enchantress knew her way around negotiations.
 
   “Yes it is knowledge I lack, so I believe we’ll take you’re offer” said Drezdin glad that he wouldn’t be walking blind through the Tower, “so that’s it, we’re taking this shriveled prune with us?’ scornfully asked Morrigan, “well yes, unless you can provide a source of near endless knowledge of the Tower?” asked Drezdin with a sarcastic tone, glancing at the witch met  only with a non amused glare, “if you would give me a moment Warden” said Wynne as she turned to speak to her six younger companions.
   
    “Yeah, but call me Drezdin I prefer the sound of that more than Warden” was Drezdin’s response as the Elder Enchantress began to speak to her underlings, she gave them words of encouragement and instructions for different situations, but as she finished and approached the barrier she had created possibly days ago, The Group and Drezdin gathered behind Wynne, Drezdin glanced back at Wynne’s fellow mages each had a look of concern, but the most senior looking of the bunch looked at Wynne with a fearful concern.
 
  But it would not matter soon, the journey into Circle Of Magi had just begun.
 
   ****()****
 
  Author’s Notes:
  Yay its done, its done (I have a bad feeling Carpo Tunnel is coming to get me) but anyway I hope you enjoy reading it I enjoyed writing it.
  But its confession time, I forgot Carrol’s name for the entire 2nd quarter, I know how he acted just not his illusive name, so I use a well known acronym from Mass Effect 2.  TIM, so yeah dodged the bullet on that one.
  Aswell as confessing to my forgetfullness (how can I be forgetting things I’m still young dammit) I’m also going to give a shout out to my homies Westiex9, and Gilgamesh1138, you two are awesome sauce.
 
  P.S.  There may or may not be a major twist coming up.
 
  P.S.S. The Chapter’s name is reference to a line Alistar says when you first reach Lake Calenhad.
  
     Thanks For Reading, Slim Warden.

Modifié par Slim Warden, 27 avril 2010 - 10:57 .

[Gilgamesh1138]

OH MY! I am squeeing, first for the new chapter. But also because plot twists? Oh you do spoil me, Slim you saucy dog! I can't wait. But I do worry for your poor wrists. Wrist braces, and wear them for 3-6 weeks at least, if you don't have them already. And internet hugs from me to you for the shout out and for this wonderful story! : D

[westiex9]

This Series gets more awesome with every chapter!

[Gilgamesh1138]

What westie said!

[Slim Warden]

    (Chapter 7: Surely Not A Vacation Destination)
  
    The group was ready for whatever was to follow as Wynne removed the barrier that obstructed they’re path, but before they were to continue Drezdin had a few questions, “Wynne just a wonder, do you know what exactly happened  here?” asked the curious Cousland, “well young man I honestly can say I do not know the whole story” answered Wynne.
 
  “Then what parts of the story do you know?” asked Drezdin eager for some information regarding they’re mission, “I only know that when I returned from ostagar the place was a mess, it had become diplomatically unstable once one of the seniors mages Uldred started demanding that we should separate from the Chantry” explained Wynne the group standing attentively.
 
   “Would not be so bad would it, to have those preachy  fools gone?” asked Morrigan, Wynne just replied with a disapproving glance,  “no everyone does serve a purpose, and Uldred was just seeking power for himself, and to respond to this Irving decided a meeting would be best to try and quell the man” explained Wynne before Drezdin replied, “so this meeting?  That could be where this all started?” stated Drezdin, “I fear so” replied Wynne as the group silently decided standing around was not the best option
 
   Drezdin had never seen a typical abomination, the “unique” result of a Mage that is possessed by a Demon, Nor had he encountered an actual Demon, and his first encounter with either of the two was not a particularly pleasant one as the passageway  led directly into the first floor study area which was overrun with the hellish creatures.
 
  Driving a blade through an Abomination was as cheerful as it looked, the fell images of twisted humans stood tall and bore devilishly sharp claws attached to long gaunt arms, but Drezdin was not one to bow out because of a disadvantage, he dodged they’re attacks by stepping into the swipes of the Abominations before driving one of his blades through its frail skin, and right into a gnarled heart.
 
   But some preferred different strategies Wynne and Morrigan took turns zapping at the Demon’s and Abominations with they’re arcane skills, while Alistar and Leliana took the supporting roles, Leliana taking up her bow her accuracy was key, and Alistar playing rearguard for Drezdin as the latter slashed his way through the study room.
  
  The last Abomination fell in a large circular room that was placed in the center of the first floor, the creature brought down its knee before Drezdin put it down with a swift kick to what seemed to be its head.
  
    “So this is an Abomination, Morrigan isn’t you’re crazy bat of a Mother an Abomination?” asked Drezdin as he put his blades back into they’re sheathes, “yes Morrigan, isn’t she an Abomination?’ Drezdin was glibly joined by Alistar, “well yes, but not so much as you Alistar”  said Morrigan cold as ice, the conversation stalling as the group prepared to ascend the stairway that led up to the second floor from the vast circle like room.

  
   ****()****
 
   It was a quick climb up the battered stairs, the curious scrapes and marks where almost as ponderous as Alistar who during the swift ascension pestered Morrigan on what her last statement meant, he got no reply as she just continued trotting up the steps ignoring the group‘s present Templar.
 
  Drezdin and Co entered into yet another circular room that was seemingly house to three smaller areas separated by thin stone walls that were decorated by carving so deeply implanted that you could peer through them, but the cautious group would not be met by danger but by a calm and collected soul who was hauling crates from one section to the other.
 
  “Owain?” spoke Wynne curiously to the bald and pale figure that stopped his task that he performed with such duty to respond, “yes Wynne it is pleasant to see you unharmed, but I must get back to my task, the storage room is a mess” spoke Owain, a nearly monotone sound to his voice, “Wynne is he alright?” asked Drezdin having never met a person like that before.
 
   “Yes to an extent he is  a Tranquil, a mage who’s connection to the fade was severed and with it his emotion” replied Wynne before she turned her attention back to Owain, “Owain have you been here the whole time?” asked Wynne wondering why Owain had remained in the room, “I had tried to leave but I eventually came to a barrier, I decided to return and upon returning I ran into Niall” explained owain as he marched back and forth trying to rearrange a battered store room.
  
   "And this Niall person, who is he?” asked Drezdin feeling slightly lost in this conversation, “he is a senior Mage of the Tower” replied Owain nearly instantaneously, “and where is he now?” asked Wynne, it was rather easy to batter an emotionless being with questions.
 
   “He spoke of Blood Mages within the Tower, and requested that I give him the litany of andralla, a request I approved” explained Owain now standing  facing the group which had been following him the whole time, “so I’m guessing this is bad?” remarked Drezdin now turning his glance to Wynne, “yes Blood Mages can control people through they’re magic, but the litany counteracts that” explained Wynne, “Demons, Blood Mages, and Abominations this isn’t foreboding at all, but we should get back to saving this tower” glibly stated Drezdin before the group continued on they’re way.
 
  Wynne led them out of the central room into what she explained was the second floor study, and tucked in the western corner of this study were the bodies of two Mages, they’re black robes were a dead give away to Wynne that they were Blood Mages, she explained as the group approached the gnarled bodies whose gashes and wounds matched those left by an Abomination.
 
   The group was mostly silent as they looked at the two corpses, “dear Maker” spoke Leliana breaking the silence, but Drezdin was  taking no pleasure staring at the two dead bodies, after all they weren’t getting anymore lively, “come on we got a Tower to save, unless we’ve forgotten” spoke Drezdin as he started to march off with the group behind him.
 

   ****()****
 

   The study led into another winding hallway very similar to the one they had passed through on the first floor, the hall led into the Senior dorms and a guest room,  the latter was locked but the dorms were open a large room of residence that were full of Abominations as Drezdin found out after cracking open the door.
 
   But he strode in confidently as he always did when called upon in battle, the rest of the group  following his lead quickly slew the possessed Mages giving them the mercy that the Demon’s would not.
 
   The group gave the once idyllic dorm a quick sweep  investigating it from end to end, finding a very curious and very large cupboard, upon further investigation they heard faint breathing inside the large piece of furnishing, “so do you come here often?” asked Drezdin looking for a reply, “I I, I’m just hiding from the Abomin, abominations” said the cracking voice of a frightened man.
 
   “Well the coast is clear, so you can come out now” remarked Drezdin as he stood in front of the wooden cupboard, “no I think I’ll stay in here” replied the voice, “well can you at the least stick you’re head out?”  said Drezdin looking curiously at the piece of furniture as the door creaked open just a bit and a man poked his blonde head hesitantly out, “I’m Godwin now what, de do you want from me?” said the frightened Godwin.
 
   Morrigan put her hand on Drezdin’s shoulder, lifting her lips close to his ear, “we don‘t really have time for such cowardly fool do we?” whispered Morrigan in her usual seductive tone before stepping away, “well, uh I’m Drezdin and do you know where a man named Uldred is?” asked Drezdin trying to shrug off Morrigan’s influence.
 
   “No, no I do not, so can I please just go back to hiding before more abominations come?” replied Godwin unnerved by the visit of the Warden, “sure its not like I could use some assistance saving you‘re home” sarcastically answered Drezdin as Godwin swung the door shut, “I’m very sure, that that you are completely capa, capable” exclaimed Godwin , Drezdin sighing as the group exited the room back into the hallway.
 
   The next room they entered as they moved down the hall was what looked like a chantry temple  that had been ravaged, the many stone statues of the prophet Andraste laid now upon the floor cracked and beheaded,  most of the wooden benches where one may sit were splintered, trashed, and some seemed to have been flung across the room.
 
   Leliana seemed to be the most effected by the sight, her eyes showed a great deal of sadness, “this is horrible” said Leliana as she looked around at the devastation within the room, “well they were Demons, ‘tis hardly a surprise” was the cold response from Morrigan as she smugly investigated the room.
 
   Drezdin stood in the middle of the room glancing at the sight of the destroyed place of worship, but something caught his eye, in the north western corner of the room was a faint glimmer shinning from a hole   where a brick had fallen loose, Drezdin swiftly approached the small opening squeezing himself in-between a wall and the base of a statue to reach it.
  
   The Cousland reached into the crevice, pulling out not only a well polished Chantry Amulet but a diary as well, Drezdin who again squirmed through  the tight space and walked back to the center of the room, could not help but read the journal.
 
   The Journal as Drezdin scrimmaged through the pages would discover belonged to a Chantry initiate named Lily, he raced through the pages picking up words like, Jowan, Love,  and running away, but the only passage that  he truly stopped to read within the four minutes he spent turning the pages was the last.
 
   ****()****
 
     Dear Journal
 
   Tomorrow me and Jowan will finally be free to love one another with no fear of consequence, I discovered that the Circle were to condemn him to a life as a Tranquil, I cannot let my love be turned into a husk, I cannot let the love we share be forgotten, so this morning I told him, and I told him also of my plan  to find and destroy his phylactery.
  
   And he agreed to it, I thank Andraste he agreed, they were to condemn him to a empty life simply because of a rumor, my love is not a Blood Mage I just know in my heart he isn’t. 
 
   Jowan also believes his best friend Solona can help us, but he tells me that she will be going through her Harrowing tonight and he doe’s not know what will happen, but I trust that it will all work out tomorrow, and soon Jowan and I will have our life together, just as I dreamed we would have.
 
   So in preparation for our new life I leave this confession of my thoughts and my Amulet behind hidden within the Temple as I have hid this book for so long.

     Lily.

  “She seemed to truly love him” remarked Leliana, who had been beside Drezdin peeking a look at what he was reading, “yes, but I really want to know what happened exactly” said Drezdin as he closed the book, “well whatever happened could not have been a happy incident” said Leiana pondering the possibilities.
 
   “Obviously, but we better get going, our new friend Wynne is giving me the impatient grandmother look” said Drezdin as he motioned the group to exit the room, handing the journal to Leliana knowing she would keep safe the story of Lily, also tying the Amulet to his belt.

  ****()****
 
   The group continued along what they had not explored of the hallway it was oddly bare of any corpses but what it was not lacking, was  mysterious rooms the most intriguing being the First Enchanter’s office, which Morrigan seemed oddly eager to enter.

   In fact she was the first to enter the room after Drezdin not seemingly too anxious to seek something, but her eyes seemed to be scanning the room even if it wasn’t entirely obvious, “This is Irving’s office we probably shouldn’t touch anything, not that the Abominations and Uldred’s thralls haven’t already” advised Wynne as she stood in the open doorway.
  
   Drezdin had taken notice of Morrigan’s subtle change but was not in the mood to ask her why the sudden change, that was until he bumped a heavy yet small Grimoire that stood out from the rest of the books strewn about the floor, the book’s cover was black and gnarled as if some evil force had handled it before.
 
   Drezdin peaked over at Morrigan who’s attention was not on him, he took advantage of this discretely picking up the book and stuffing it between his armor and his undergarments, as He expected it was not a comfortable fit.
 
   The brief and curious look around the room ended, the group leaving, finding a stairwell that led up to the third floor, Wynne lectured that the floor they were ascending to was home to the Tower’s great hall, and that great caution should be taken as they ventured forth.
 
   But the Third floor seemed to be nearly abandoned, the hallway they found themselves entering from the stairway barren of life, even the great hall itself stood eerily silent as Alistar would say “it looks like the Abominations are out for tea“, as they passed through the great hall, trying they‘re best not to step upon the butchered bodies that littered the floor.
 
   The sight of a single Arcane horror finally broke the morbid trek through the third floor, a dangerous farewell present that they quickly slew before leaving the third level of the Tower behind them, a rather grotesque and droll journey of a floor.
 

   ****()**** 
  
 
  The fourth floor was more than exciting as they made they’re presence felt, the floor was home to the Templar’s barracks and Templars was what the group found, but  not the grizzled and disciplined warriors of the Chantry, but enthralled and lost puppets in heavy armor, all too easy for Drezdin and Alistar to take down in close quarters.
 
   While the battle against the Templars was easily won the war against they’re puppeteer was to be more than difficult, Drezdin stared down the creature at the end of the hall before charging forward, Morrigan, Leliana and Wynne all made attempts to take down the creature at range, but it laughed as it evaded them.
 
   Drezdin chased the fiend out to the hallways end through a door that led into a large spacious room that within it center stood a large pillar, Drezdin finally got a clear look at the creature, the Cousland halting as he bore witness to the petite figure of what looked to be a woman, but her naked body was pale as snow, and upon her head where locks of hair should be were two large horns, and in the middle of such horns was a tiara of flames.
 
   “Come chase me mortal, you know its what you desire” spoke the Demon in a sultry tone as she fled Drezdin chased after her with his Companions at his heels, the group following her into the dark central chamber of the fourth floor.
 
   But the pursuit ended there, a loud scream heard as Demon of Desire was struck down in front of them by a powerful burst of magic, Drezdin who stood at the front was surprised by the event, even more so when the culprit stepped into the light of the dim room, “so much work to catch that one, *sigh* she took so many meals from me” spoke a rather bored and uninterested voice.
 
   The voice was coming not from a man but an Abomination as it stood over a limp body, barely visible through the darkness of the room, “but you five, you must be very tired after that , maybe you should rest” spoke the voice suggestively as Drezdin looked to reply.
 
  “No I already had my power na……….” was all Drezdin could say as a great sense of weariness took over, he looked back over his shoulder to see Wynne trying to say something his entire group was trying to say something, but to his ears it was just murmurs under waves of water the Cousland drifting into a deep sleep.
 

   ****()****

  It seemed to be bright in his bedroom as Drezdin Cousland awoke, his Mother sitting attentively upon a stool next to his bed, “my darling son I‘m so relieved to see you well again” spoke his Mother a soft and gentle tone to her voice, “wait, Mother?! I’m not supposed to be here I was on a mission to stop a bloody Blight” said Drezdin in a weary tone.
 
   “Stop the Blight?  oh my boy you’ve been having dreams of those Grey Warden’s again” said Mother softly smiling as she ran her fingers through her Son’s hair, “but I couldn’t have been dreaming, you and the rest of the family should be dead, we were betrayed by Arl Howe, in fact where is Father?’ asked Drezdin in a panic.
 
   “My darling you really must’ve been dreaming, the blight was ended at Ostagar, you’re Father and Fergus are headed home as we speak, Arl Howe in tow as well” explained Drezdin’s Mother her green eyes just as he remembered them.
  
   “This all doesn’t make sense” said Drezdin dazed and confused , “you were sick with fever for weeks my son, they said you wouldn’t awake, but you did, and it couldn’t have come at a better time” said his Mother as she stood up from her stool.
 
   “A better time?” asked Drezdin curiously as she sat up, “Sylvie. Bann Vonder’s daughter has come to see you, she will be pleased to hear you well especially since that night she spent here a few months ago” said Drezdin’s Mother with a sly grin, but Drezdin finally saw the flaws in the picture drawn in front of him, “you’re not my Mother, my Mother never knew of me and Sylvie” said Drezdin defiantly as he stood up from the bed.
 
   “Well did you not expect me not to know when my son has charmed a girl in my own home?’ asked the Mother a defensive tinge in her voice as she stood near the doorway, “I’d expect my Mother to know what happens in our home but Sylvie has never been to Highever, and I don’t expect my Mother to know secrets conjured miles away” said Drezdin calling the imposter Mother on her lack of knowledge.
 
   “You are just so difficult, you’re memories so distant as if you’ve selfishly locked them away from anyone but yourself,  and even after I‘ve worked so hard to give you happiness you reject it, I shall leave you to the misery you desire” spoke the Demonic imposter as the world around Drezdin unraveled.
 
   The furnishing that was so reminiscently placed throughout the room started  to fade away, his Mother’s doppelganger turned into but a mere shadow that slithered from existence, the tapestries that decorated the seemed to burn away  without the assistance of a fire taking the wall with them, revealing what was the Fade in its most raw form.
   
    Drezdin was now all alone and confused standing upon a small isle of sandy rock, that seemed to be a tan colored Limestone, Drezdin who had fallen to his knees as the land around him transformed picked himself up with the help of a strange pedestal standing where the bed from which he awoke into this realm once was.
 
  Drezdin stood over the pedestal staring at it, it adorned by many glowing symbols one of them seemed to just beckon his touch and he could not contain the temptation, touching the symbol seemed to fling him through reality itself  feeling as if bits and pieces were being torn away from him and returned in the same instance.
 
   The Cousland slightly regained his bearing as the world once again settled around him, he felt sick to his stomach and would’ve puked if it was possible, standing straight again he knew it was blatantly obvious he was not in any familiar realm, but it was also obvious that he was not alone as a stranger curiously poked out from behind a rock.
 
  “You don’t look like a Demon, are you a dreamer?” asked the Man anxiously as he poked his head over the rock, his long black hair hanging over his face, “well I know I’m not a Demon, but what are you?’ asked Drezdin with a raised eyebrow, “well I’m uh, I’m Niall, I‘m just a dreamer like you” replied the Man nervously as he stepped out from behind the rock.
 
  “You must be the mage Owain mentioned, the one who took the Litany to head on that foreboding mission” said Drezdin as the Mage approached him, “yes, yes that is me, but are you not scared of this place?” replied Niall as he stopped, standing directly in front of Drezdin studying the Cousland from head to toe with his eyes, “well yes, but I take pride in getting myself out of sticky situations, this just happens to be as sticky as caramel pudding” answered Drezdin.
 
   “Well pride is not such a bad thing, but you must realize the hopelessness of being trapped in the Fade by a Sloth Demon?” said Niall curious to Drezdin‘s persona, “the Fade?   I could’ve guessed as much the place just screams evil realm of Sloth” replied the Cousland as he cautiously glanced from side to side, “well then you know that its dangerous?” again asked Niall, “a realm inhabited by Demons is dangerous, you don’t say?” sarcastically answered Drezdin.
  
   “Well I guess you have sharp tongue don’t you my friend?” replied Niall oddly amused, “well yes but I really should be going I really should find my friends” said Drezdin as he looked back at the pedestal, “wait I know more about the Fade than you could imagine, you’re friends must be trapped in dreams like the one you escaped from, if we worked together we could easily find them” explained Niall as he too looked at the pedestal.
 
  “So it seems you know you’re way around?” asked Drezdin looking back at niall, “yes I’ve been exploring this place a bit, and I believe we should get going soon” suggested Niall as he walked over to the pedestal, “and why would that be? Other than the obvious of course” said a curious Cousland, “well the islands have been shifting, as if some force has been wreaking havoc upon this realm” replied niall, 
 
  “So since we may run into this force, what can you do exactly?” asked Drezdin curiously, “well my friend, I’ know my way around spells, and in my time in the fade I’ve learned to transform…….”
  
    Into a Mouse………

  *****()****
 
  Authors Note:
  Alright this is my second longest chapter (Chapter four is the lengthiest)  but I had a lot of ground  to cover in this chapter, and I believe I succeeded in my quest to write them all into one long chapter, oddly enough this was my fastest write probably because I‘ve been waiting to get to this part.
  And within this wall of text I took some creative freedoms, and I look to be taking them all the way through the fade.  I hoped you enjoyed it.
  And on a final note, my homie Pat is helping me draw Drezdin (I can’t draw to save my life) so we can expect a portrait sometime next week.
 
  P.S. I would’ve had this posted earlier, but spent most of Thursday at my grandparents house for my Grandma’s birthday, and most of Friday playing soccer, but its up now so that’s what matters.
  
     Thanks For Reading, Slim Warden.

Modifié par Slim Warden, 01 mai 2010 - 09:08 .

[Gilgamesh1138]

Great job Slim! I am having fun with Drezdiin's adventures and I can't wait to see the portrait! *HUGS*

[westiex9]

i love fanart! it'll be cool to see the face of the hero!



Oh and i like the part with Lily's journal, little references to the other origins are awesome!

[Slim Warden]

Thanks guys and I'll try to make sure that the next chapter, and the picture get put up the same day. And just if you didn't cath it, Lily wasn't the only character from the Mage's origin to make they're presence felt.

[Gilgamesh1138]

Okay, I must have missed, it I am embarrassed to say! But I just get so wrapped up in the story, so part of the blame rests on you for that Slim (compliment intended). : D

[Slim Warden]

  Say hello to Drezdin I think my friend did a good job with the description I gave him, and I know I said I was going to post it on the same day with chapter eight, but my buddy Patrick sent this to me in the morning and I couldn't wait any longer.  Also Pat is a very stylized artist, or so he says.

Modifié par Slim Warden, 04 mai 2010 - 10:59 .

[Gilgamesh1138]

Oh hubba hubba! I am in love! oh if he were real, I would be all over him! Your friend did a wonderful job Slim! Please tell him thanks! : D

[Slim Warden]

  (Chapter 8: Quaint Places Of Nonexistence) 
  

  The Fade was once described as a never ending void, a plain of existence so bare yet so full of motion that the mind could not comprehend,  it has also been said that the Fade was a chain of existences linked together by those who inhabited them, both were common descriptions as an unarmed Drezdin came to realize both were right.
  
    Drezdin was in a curious state finding himself clad in Noble‘s cloth, sitting upon a rock unable to shake the strange feelings the Fade invoked, he could see dust blowing with the wind, but he could not feel the breeze, he knew what was supposed to be felt, but the Fade was indeed an odd place.
 
   “Are you done toying with that?” Drezdin asked Niall who had for the last five minutes been studying the pedestal, “I’m having a bit of trouble locating you’re friends, I just can’t find a clue as to what we’re looking for” replied Niall in a non so urgent tone to the Cousland that was now making the short trip from his seemingly rocky stool to the pedestal.
 
  “Well what says Companions of the one named Drezdin to you?” said Drezdin, now standing besides Niall as the two looked at the macabre glowing images carved into the stone like pedestal, “no they do not speak to me my Friend” replied Niall as he impatiently took a step back from the pedestal.
 

  Drezdin glanced back at Niall who seemed at a loss, but it was the Cousland who would make a discovery, the well timed Warrior glancing through the many glimmering images, before one stopped and held his attention, he felt a connection to it one that flowed through his veins.
  
  It was a moment of clarity that Drezdin would experience as he stared into the image, hearing the all to familiar voice of Alistar, “is there something wrong?” asked Niall with concern as the Mage tried to see what Drezdin could, “it is my friend Alistar I hear him through the carving” replied Drezdin as he started to see faint images within the carving.
 
  “Well then my Friend let us go to retrieve him”  said Niall placing his hand upon Drezdin’s shoulder before touching the symbol sending them both twisting and morphing again through what seemed to be reality around them, the constant morphing across an unstable realm that would finally release Drezdin and Niall into the surroundings formed by the Sloth Demon that imprisoned them.
  
  ****()****
 
   Drezdin found himself kneeling  after the transition was done, barely able to take in the spring countryside that surrounded him as Niall who was more or less fazed by the trip lent him a hand, “I’m not enjoying the Fade‘s express route” said Dredin slightly sickened, “it is a bit nauseating” replied Niall as the two began to look around.
 
  The setting that Drezdin found himself in was one that many retired warriors seek, a pristine Fereldan countryside decorated with plains of green grass, the occasional spring tree, laughing Children and a peaceful little cottage, “how quaint” sarcastically remarked Drezdin standing five feet from the door of a cottage, with the pedestal nowhere in sight.
 
   Drezdin glanced to Niall finding none there, “Niall where the bloody hell are you?” asked Drezdin as he spun around to get a three sixty view of his surroundings, “down here” replied the voice of Niall Drezdin looking down to find nothing more than a mouse.
  
  “You weren’t kidding were you?” stated Drezdin in a matter of fact tone with eyebrow raised, “it is better this way, you’re friends might not be so easy to rescue from they’re dreams if you bring an unfamiliar face” replied Niall as Drezdin leaned down to get a better look at his Mouse form, “I don‘t think they‘d take the talking Rodent well either, but it makes sense in a odd manner” spoke Drezdin standing straight again to face the door.
  
  Drezdin slowly approached the door of the homely cottage, its door decorated with many carvings that looked as though they were drawn by young children, “so if we need to fight do I just try to punch out an immortal spirit?” asked Drezdin to Niall the mouse who was standing beside him.
  
   “Well you could punch them, but the Fade is more about will and wits than anything, convince you’re friends they’re surroundings are lies and the Demon‘s powers will weaken” replied Niall assuredly as Drezdin prepared to knock, “good to know, I like using wit” remarked Drezdin as he knocked upon the door.
 
  It took barely a second before the door was answered by none other than Alistar who was dressed humbly, “Drezdin my friend come in come in!” greeted Alistar a grin from ear to ear as he motioned Drezdin into his home, “so Alistar, have I got a surprise for you” said Drezdin a sly grin as he accepted the invitation in.
 
  “Well I do as well, and my surprise comes first because I’m you’re host” stated Alistar as he led Drezdin to the a table that had been readied for a meal, “Alistar how wonderful that you’ve brought a friend” spoke a woman with long brown hair as she placed a pot of stew upon the table, “Drezdin meet my sister Goldanna, now I know I never told you of her, but after we stopped the Blight I sought her out” explained Alistar as Drezdin stood now confused.
 
  “So you think you live with you’re sister?” asked Drezdin in his usual manner of chalant,  “not think, I do live with my sister, albeit she’s my half sister but that’s just details” replied Alistar glibly, “well Alistar she’s not really anything to you” replied Drezdin a matter of fact essence in his voice.
 
  “Wait what do you mean?” asked Alistar slightly upset by Drezdin’s statement, as his would be sister looked on disapprovingly, “exactly what I said Alistar, she’s kind of the artistic work of a Sloth Demon” explained Drezdin with crossed arms, “have you been touched in the head?” asked Alistar in a confused tone.
 
  “In a sense we both have, we’re in the Fade after all, you can’t not notice something’s not right here?” said Drezdin as he paced around the table, Alistar standing still was looking into Drezdin’s words with revelation, “I, I guess you’re right its not right here” said Alistar as he started to see the façade that was placed in front of him.
  
  “Brother don’t be silly, now tell you’re nephew’s to come in for lunch” spoke Goldanna just ignoring Drezdin’s words, “no I see it now, its not real, how could I not it wasn’t real I must look incredibly gullible” spoke Alistar in panicky realization sort of way,
 
  “Well more or less than most” replied Drezdin but he was to get no reply as a familiar feeling came over him, he felt as he did when he escaped from his dream, the same motion of deconstruction was put in order as everything surrounding him deteriorated even into nothing even Alistar who looked as though he was about to speak, just vanished into nothing, leaving a barren wasteland the aftermath, the Fade pedestal standing where the dining table once was.
 
   “We’re one down” spoke Niall in his human form once again, “I’d hate to be a killjoy, but did we misplace him cause he’s not here?” asked Drezdin confused as he glanced around, “the Sloth Demon must not want us getting stronger numbers” suggested Niall who now stood ominously beside the pedestal.
 
  Drezdin sighed as he approached the pedestal again looking into the many symbols, and hearing the many voices that were radiating, “well even if its just us we got to keep going” said Drezdin before a faint humming caught his attention, “do you hear that Niall?” asked Drezdin as he searched for the noise, “hear what?’ asked Niall blankly glancing at Drezdin, “it’s a minstrel” explained Drezdin finding the carving that the song radiated from.
 
     ****()****
 
  It was a summer day in Lothering, the Chantry’s  garden was in full bloom as not one but what seemed to be a wall of fiery red roses decorated it from end to end even encircling an oak tree in the center, and if the beauty of the garden was not enough on its own, a single lay sister sat upon a stone bench, serenading the flowers with a song of her own creation with a harp in hand.
 
  But as with all dreams it would need to end and Drezdin intended to do just that,  the Cousland again noxiously traveling through the Fade pedestal, only to find himself disorientated as he fell out of an oak tree that stood in the center of a garden.
  
   “Are you alright?” asked Leliana the red headed minstrel, she had witnessed Drezdin’s fall as he landed nearly a foot in front of her, “I’m guessing I should be in pain” said Drezdin as he sat up, the Fade still as strange as ever, “what do you mean guess? You fell out of the tree are you not hurt?’ asked Leliana as she now hovered over the Cousland in concern.
 
   “As much as I love the attention of one such as yourself, I think you should be more concerned about you Leliana” stated Drezdin as he slowly stood up and dusted himself off, or tried to dust himself off, “what do you mean, and how do you know my name?” asked Leliana taking a step backwards.
 
  “Well we travel together so I think its proper I know you’re name” replied Drezdin oh so matter of fact like, “travel together?  I do not know you” stated Leliana slightly disturbed,  Drezdin let out a slight sigh glancing up to see Niall in mouse form up in the tree before turning his attention back to Leliana.
 
  “This place we’re in right now…” said Drezdin pointing to the ground before being interrupted by Leliana, “the chantry’s garden” replied the Minstrel, “no this is the Fade, its all a dream Leliana” explained Drezdin,  Leliana only looking at him with a face of near disbelief, “you feel so familiar, but I don‘t know you yet you speak like you know me, very awkward” said Leliana confused by Drezdin’s words.
 
  “Well if I speak like I know you, then I must obviously know you” said Drezdin as Leliana looked at him slightly confused, “I, I find myself almost trusting you, I don’t understand it” said leliana,  “remember Red Cliffe Leliana, I gave you one of you’re Mother’s flowers, and I told you I don’t forget easily, don’t forget me so easily” replied Drezdin a warm tone to his voice.
 
  Leliana stood silent for a second as she glanced around as if to get one last glimpse of the walls of roses before glancing back at Drezdin, a slight smile on her face as she faded away as the garden wilted and the building around decayed, leaving Drezdin with only Niall who was again in human form as the oak tree turned into the pedestal.
 
   “You seem to have knowledge in convincing women to see things you’re way” stated Mouse as the pair stood in a garden of shriveled bushes, “practice” replied Drezdin as he approached the pedestal yet again, “I’m learning a lot watching you my friend’ said Niall as he stood beside Drezdin, “really?  I thought being a Mage you’d have been more studied than I?” asked Drezdin glancing back at Niall.
 
   “Its  just nice to learn things from someone on the other side” said Niall who returned Drezdin’s glance, “other side?” asked Drezdin with a raised eyebrow, “you know what I mean outside the Tower, away from the Templars” replied Niall as the two again studied the pedestal, “I guess, I’ am a cultured individual after all” remarked Drezdin as he began to hear a voice vaguely familiar, it now rang with a tinge of aged wisdom, but with a strange hint of youth.
 
   ****()****
 

    Drezdin and Niall found themselves flung into  what seemed like the Circle of Magi the disorientation that Drezdin usually felt was incredibly mild as compared to recent trips.
  
  “If my gut feeling is right we’re looking for Wynne, and Niall seeing as you’re a Mage yo…….” was all Drezdin was capable of saying as his mind drifted after seeing the sight of a young brown haired woman walking through the hall with a baby in her arms, “Niall this would be good time to be useful, Niall?” said Drezdin as he looked to see no Niall or mouse.
 
   “Well that’s not strange” sarcastically muttered Drezdin, the suspicious disappearance of Niall had to be put to the side as the much younger looking Wynne greeted him from a distance, “is there a reason you are here Ser?” asked Wynne as she approached Drezdin.
 
  “Well actually I’m looking for you Wynne, in a sense” said Drezdin, Wynne was now but a few feet away, “and what doe’s that mean exactly?” asked curiously as she gently held a child in her arms, “well the Wynne I’m looking for didn’t have child with her, and she had more grey hair” explained Drezdin glibly as Wynne looked at him oddly.
 
  “Grey hair?” replied Wynne confused by the Cousland, “don’t worry about the hair, you did age well I must say” said Drezdin his non chalant shtick still running, “you are a strange, strange man” said Wynne still holding her sleeping child, “don’t talk to me about strange, last time I met you, you were an lively Elder, and now you’re much younger with a child, and by the way who’s is it?” said Drezdin with crossed arms and raised eyebrow.
 
   “This is my child, and I’m wondering how the Templar’s would let such an odd man into the Tower” said Wynne looking at Drezdin with a look of curiosity, “well that’s because they didn’t, now just bear with me, you and I were trying to save the Tower from hell on earth, when we were trapped by a Sloth Demon who put us both here” explained the Cousland it seemed he had been explaining so much today.
 
  “And you expect me to believe you why?” asked Wynne with a raised eyebrow, “hasn’t something been off lately, can’t you feel something strange?’ retorted Drezdin as Wynne slowly glanced around, “I’ve felt a sense of déjà vu, as if I’ve been here before” explained Wynne, “well what exactly are you doing?” asked Drezdin.
 
  Wynne glanced down at her sleeping child, “I’m taking my child to the Knight Commander, Mage’s aren’t allowed to be parents I have no choice but to give him up, I‘m just trying to enjoy what time I can have with him” explained Wynne as her face turned morose.
 
   Drezdin looked at Wynne with a face of realization, the dream was but a bitter sweet cycle of a memory “Wynne I know that this must be very emotional for you, but its not real anymore, its already happened and the Tower needs you’re help, I need you to believe that this is not real” said Drezdin to Wynne the Elder Mage looking down at the child one last time.
  
  “At least I saw you once again” whispered Wynne as the dream unraveled around Drezdin just as the rest had, but another façade had unraveled as well.
 
  ****()****
 
  Niall returned to Drezdin, the two now stood within a small cavernous tunnel, “I must apologize for disappearing my friend” spoke Niall in a soft tone, “cut the act Niall, you and I both know you’re not what you say you are” said Drezdin a convicting tone in his voice.
 
  Niall let out a sigh as his voice started to change, “you are a smart one my Friend, I have to say how impressed I’ am with you” said Niall a demonic tone in his voice, “why exactly are you impressed?” asked Drezdin as he took a cautionary step back.

  “Most people don’t escape from they’re dreams, and even if they do they don’t walk out sane like you did, take Niall as an example” said the Demon as he looked down at himself, “he escaped his nightmare but he was so weak and lost, and all that was left was an image and a name, nothing more” explained the Demon as he paced around Drezdin studying him from head to toe.
 
  “So I take it you had no background ‘til I came along?” asked Drezdin with crossed arms putting a brave face on in front of the demon, “indeed, until you, I had nothing but you gave me a story, and a way to get close enough to devour you” explained the Demon, “well you’re right on top of that devouring part aren’t you?” sarcastically replied Drezdin.
 
  “It is not my intention now, but when I first saw you, you seemed like a meal, but you were different so full of energy purpose and pride, I wanted to see how far you would go, and you figured out how to navigate the realm with haste didn’t you?” said Niall with a raised eyebrow.
 
  “Well it wasn’t like you were going to do it for me” retorted Drezdin nonchalant as always, “I wanted to see you‘re wits, and my friend you are a testament to Humanity, most souls are not strong enough to walk and talk in the Fade, let alone proud enough to journey into others dreams and not lose themselves, bravo my Friend, bravo” said Niall silently clapping his hands while still pacing.
 
  “I’m intrigued, I get it, now why did you keep me alive?” asked Drezdin impatiently, “well that requires a long tale, but I will shorten it, for you see the keeper of this realm promised me souls to feed on, but he was not sincere and looked to swindle me, so I came and destroyed his servants, but when I sought to destroy him he sealed himself off from the rest of us Fade spirits, only keeping himself connected to his dreamers” explained Niall.
 
  “And this explains things how?’ asked Drezdin as he uncrossed his arms, “well if he stayed connected with his dreamers, that means someone of mortal spirit can reach him, and while Niall was just too weak to even face the Sloth, you, you are more than worthy enough, and I now ask you to take my assistance” said Niall as he approached Drezdin.
  
   “Mother always told me never accept gifts from Demon’s Niall, or whatever you are” replied Drezdin, “but you and I know that the Sloth Demon is powerful, but I’m sure that you need my help beyond this point, and I could help you for years and years, and years, all you need to do is let me share you’re spirit, and vessel” said Niall in a soft tone.
  
  Drezdin looked at the Demonic Mage with disgust, “as much as it sounds nice, I’m not big on sharing any of me with a Demon” answered the Cousland a proud tone in his voice, “ah, my friend I knew you would deny me, but that does not mean I CAN’T TAKE IT!!” screamed Niall as he lunged at Drezdin.
 
  Niall lunged and wrapped his hands around Drezdin’s throat, and while this whole time Drezdin had not felt any physical pain through out the Fade, he felt a burning sensation in his core as if someone was trying to light him on fire from the inside.
  
   The light seemed to be fading as Niall’s grip tightened, but Drezdin’s spirit had not been exhausted “get you’re bleeding claws off me” muttered Drezdin as he raised both arms bringing them crashing down breaking Niall’s grip, but the Demon was non deterred as he  collected himself and connected with a violent punch.
 
  It was an odd feeling as Drezdin felt what reminded him of physical pain for the first time in the Fade, but he was headstrong and came back with a flurry that connected with Niall’s body and face, the fight turned into battle of attrition as the two traded blows with neither seeming to get a foot hold.
 
  Niall looked to end they’re confrontation with a powerful right hook that jerked Drezdin’s head and would‘ve drawn blood,  time seemingly stood still as Drezdin’s  bearings swiftly were found before returning Niall’s favor with a hook of his own that sent the Demon reeling.
 
  And as the Mage attempted to collect himself Drezdin charged him and slid under Niall’s attempt at a wide right swing, and even before Niall could turn to face the Cousland he found his legs taken by a swift kick from behind, quickly putting him to the ground as Drezdin used his left foot as a pivot to turn, and bring down his right foot on Niall’s throat as he landed.
 

   Drezdin sighed as he looked down upon the hazy figure,  “Drezdin one, Immortal Fade Spirit nil” muttered Drezdin before he turned to limp back to the  pedestal, “you truly are a driven and unique individual’ spoke Niall as Drezdin quickly turned to see him floating, “I will disappear from sight for now, but you will weaken one day, and pride has patience” was his farewell as Niall simply disappeared, leaving Drezdin slightly unnerved, but seemingly free for the moment.

 ****()****
 
  Drezdin again teleported himself through the Fade to the only familiar voice he could hear, and the only remaining Companion that he had not found, Morrigan.
 
  Drezdin found himself within a grand  and dark throne room, the twisted gnarled pillars that held up the roof were decorated with spines, but it was non so foreboding as the rest of the architecture  seemed to scream narcissist.
 
  The Cousland’s slow walk towards the throne was one filled with discomfort garnered from his earlier confrontation, the bitter room seemed to only get worse after catching a glimpse of a man who resembled Alistar, his mouth sewn shut as if to silence him, “this is definitely Morrigan’s dream” whispered Drezdin as he further approached the ill illuminated throne.
 
  “So the handsome Warden comes to rescue me from this nightmare” proclaimed a familiar voice, Morrigan stepping out of the shadows that surrounded the throne, “so I’m guessing I don’t need to give you the, “we’re trapped in the Fade speech?” asked Drezdin a grin on his face.
 
  “That would be hardly necessary but if you must you may,  even though I have known this was a dream for some time now” explained Morrgan as she slowly made her way towards Drezdin, clad in a black dress that seemed to speak elegance and brutality, “and how did you realize it was a dream?” asked Drezdin as Morrigan now circled him.
 
   “Look at it, it is simply to exaggerated to be real” said Morrigan glancing before looking at Alistar the jester, “but ‘twas a good dream while it lasted, shall we be off then?” asked Morrigan as she placed her cold hand on Drezdin’s cheek in a sultry manner.
 
  But he would not have a chance to reply, a loud crack was heard and the Cousland felt himself drifting through space as if some ethereal being had violently plucked him from where he stood.

  ****()****

  The Cousland found himself in a pitch black room, the only light came from a candle so dim it barely illuminated the table it was placed upon, Drezdin looked on curiously as the silhouette of a figure motioned him over, “come young one, please take a seat” spoke the ethereal voice, Drezdin marched gracefully through the dark before finally obliging the  figure.

   Drezdin found himself sitting across from a pale man who’s grey face was gaunt and ill nourished, “you have unraveled many worlds that I spun for you’re friends” croaked the Pale Entity, “you spun lies with you’re web Demon, now where have you placed my Friends?” said Drezdin in a calm but commanding tone.
 
  “Do not fret I have not misplaced them, I just wish for a moment alone with the Mortal that took apart my thralls, and repelled a Demon of pride” spat the Pale Sloth Demon as he pointed his twisted finger at Drezdin, “so are you looking to take me as  the last Demon attempted, as you must know it did not go well” replied Drezdin a cocky smile across his face.
 
  “No you’re will is but a wall I’ am far to weak to break, and even if I wanted to destroy you I couldn’t” explained the pale figure, “so you can’t stop me if I wanted to leave?” asked Drezdin.
 
  “No with the loss of my sweet children by the one you knew as Niall, and you’re work to disconnect me from my thralls, I’ am but a shell of what I once was, so I have but a single proposition” spoke the Demon as the candles fire grew greater revealing Drezdin’s family who were standing in the shadows.
 
  “I spent time studying you, and as you destroyed the dreams I created, I looked into you’re heart and saw what you longed for” said the Pale Demon as he stood up and paced around the doppelgangers, “so you’re trying to lure me into the exact same dream I escaped from?” glibly spoke Drezdin looking at the inactive images of his Family.

  “No not the same, different where it matters, and what matters is you’re joy” said the Pale Figure staring at Drezdin with empty eye sockets, “I don’t think living a lie would make me happy” proclaimed Drezdin still sitting at the table, “but it would bring you’re family joy, look at they’re faces they long for you to return they’re faith, don’t leave them so empty” said the Pale Figure sitting once again across from Drezdin.
  
  “I know I’ll never have them back, so I will not accept you’re proposal, as the only way I can keep the faith is to fulfill my purpose” said Drezdin as he pushed himself away from the table and stood up, “then there is nothing left for this weak soul to do, make it quick” said the Pale Figure as Drezdin’s duel blades appeared upon the table.
 
  Drezdin did not speak a word as he grabbed the familiar blades, taking only a second to reacquaint himself before  decapitating the Pale Man, “two zip” uttered Drezdin as the world fragmented around him, feeling not the sickness of the Fade but the embrace of his own skin.
 
  The Cousland awoke with a violent gasp, his eyes meeting only the ceiling of the large room he had fallen in, Drezdin rested his head against the ground shifting his eyes to catch glimpses of his Companions’ slowly rising from they’re slumber.
  
   Drezdin let out a sigh of relief as he gazed back up at the ceiling the shadows that once plagued the room now non existent, a smile grew on Drezdin’s face, a grin in celebration of his escape from the fade.

  ****()****
 
  Author’s Note:
  Okay I’m happy I completed this (I wrote the first half with a migraine and my nemesis Carpal) so I really hope you enjoyed the read.
  I wanted to use the creativity of the Fade to my advantage, and I wanted to use it as a way for Drezdin to find out secrets and little tidbits of his Companions (Wynne’s child, Leliana’s peace at the Chantry, Morrigan’s Vanity, and Alistar’s half sister) and yes that was Mouse from the Mage‘s Origins.
  Also I made the Fade more about strength of Mind more than anything else and I hope you enjoy my perception of it. 
 
  P.S. I’d also like to thank my friend Patrick once again for the handsome portrait of our protaganist.
  
    Thanks For Reading, Slim Warden.

Modifié par Slim Warden, 05 mai 2010 - 10:46 .

[Gilgamesh1138]

Another wonderful chapter Slim! I want to read it again and again! Love your Fade, and the creativity of it. I have a migraine today, so you deserve a medal for writing through one. *HUGS*