As I saw it, Duncan more like gained a recruit in exchange of the order of protecting him as he escaped, but I doubt he would have needed it. The run away thing had been pushed on by Ser Gilmore first and his parents later. The stay and kill thing had been cancelled by his mother at the very beginning.
Dragon Age: Origins
- Thread starter Meinos Kaen
- Start date
This is all very well and good...but it's important we remember the most important part of Dragon Age.
=
Allow me to explain.
Wonder Woman was initially created to become a symbol of women's empowerment in the 1940s, when the idea of a strong, independent woman who did not need men to succeed was just starting to emerge and gain momentum. Wonder Woman represented female independence gaining representation in comics, which before then had by far been dominated by the classic American everyman stereotypes; Superman, Aqua Man, etc.. She was the first woman to join the Justice League. Being raised by Amazons, she was taught to disdain men, and with her lasso was able to force anyone caught by it to follow her every command. She also possesses super strength, the power of flight and the ability to instantly heal herself by praying to the earth. She was notable as the only female superhero never to have definitively buried the bone.
As such, tapping that would not only surpass every other man and superman before you, but would also be the equivalent of glazing the donut with femininity itself. The quantity of Man Points that would be garnered by such a titanic feat is literally incalculable.
But, as the times changed, the every day woman changed with them. Feminism lost it's momentum. Wonder Woman probably finally polished the porpoise in some run-off AU comic I never read.
For each generation of women, there is a female character that inspires them, who they strive to be like. In addition to this widespread adulation, they are also consistently : strong-willed, independent, self-sufficient, self-confident, and hot as Hades. A woman who's MPV (Man Point Value) is already high, is suddenly increased exponentially. You are not only getting your whoopee stick vulcanized by her, but by every woman who she represents.
This list may differ for some men. For example, some may see the Wonder Woman of Smart Girls as Velma instead of Hermione, or the Wonder Woman of Bimbos as Pam Anderson instead of Sarah Palin.
Today is a momentous occasion for me. The Wonder Woman of Bitches, originally Fleur Delacour for me, has been supplanted by Morrigan. As such, Claudia Black, her voice actor, has achieved Wonder Woman status. May my dick grow a mustache should I ever manage to hit that, and may I be banished from the ranks of men should I ever refuse.
Amen.
EDIT : But fear not, Fleur Delacour/Clemence Poesy. You are still my Wonder Woman of Foreign Girls.
=
Allow me to explain.
Wonder Woman was initially created to become a symbol of women's empowerment in the 1940s, when the idea of a strong, independent woman who did not need men to succeed was just starting to emerge and gain momentum. Wonder Woman represented female independence gaining representation in comics, which before then had by far been dominated by the classic American everyman stereotypes; Superman, Aqua Man, etc.. She was the first woman to join the Justice League. Being raised by Amazons, she was taught to disdain men, and with her lasso was able to force anyone caught by it to follow her every command. She also possesses super strength, the power of flight and the ability to instantly heal herself by praying to the earth. She was notable as the only female superhero never to have definitively buried the bone.
As such, tapping that would not only surpass every other man and superman before you, but would also be the equivalent of glazing the donut with femininity itself. The quantity of Man Points that would be garnered by such a titanic feat is literally incalculable.
But, as the times changed, the every day woman changed with them. Feminism lost it's momentum. Wonder Woman probably finally polished the porpoise in some run-off AU comic I never read.
For each generation of women, there is a female character that inspires them, who they strive to be like. In addition to this widespread adulation, they are also consistently : strong-willed, independent, self-sufficient, self-confident, and hot as Hades. A woman who's MPV (Man Point Value) is already high, is suddenly increased exponentially. You are not only getting your whoopee stick vulcanized by her, but by every woman who she represents.
This list may differ for some men. For example, some may see the Wonder Woman of Smart Girls as Velma instead of Hermione, or the Wonder Woman of Bimbos as Pam Anderson instead of Sarah Palin.
Today is a momentous occasion for me. The Wonder Woman of Bitches, originally Fleur Delacour for me, has been supplanted by Morrigan. As such, Claudia Black, her voice actor, has achieved Wonder Woman status. May my dick grow a mustache should I ever manage to hit that, and may I be banished from the ranks of men should I ever refuse.
Amen.
EDIT : But fear not, Fleur Delacour/Clemence Poesy. You are still my Wonder Woman of Foreign Girls.
Yes fascinating.
Now as for your companions, itÆs possible that theyÆll all die not too long after the end of DA: O due to the taint. However, this new expansion pack, Awakenings, seems to suggest that something very odd is occurring within the ranks of the Darkspawn and IÆm willing to hold off on theorizing any further until I see how these things came about and what they mean for the future.
Now as for your companions, itÆs possible that theyÆll all die not too long after the end of DA: O due to the taint. However, this new expansion pack, Awakenings, seems to suggest that something very odd is occurring within the ranks of the Darkspawn and IÆm willing to hold off on theorizing any further until I see how these things came about and what they mean for the future.
Hmmm... I think Morrigan's son/daughter is going to be Dragon Age 2's main character, actually. Just a hunch...
That said, here's what I've written till now and then some...
The weakness of us Gray Wardens has always been our scarce number. Compared to the armies of the various kingdoms and circles, we are like a drop in the sea. This is further true in Ferelden, where our order has been exiled for two centuries.
The secrecy about our inner workings and rituals due to the risks and sacrifices we make for the greater good, prevents us from recruiting at large. This has also made us careful in the choosing of candidates for the joining, valuing skills and overall power over anything else, which has led to unfortunate accidents in our history, but such is our way: anything to defeat the Darkspawn Taint.
A few times though, our orders have been graced with individuals who seem to shine with the light of hope, of makings that go behind fighting Darkspawn. I have been fortunate enough to meet quite a few of such individuals in the last months, and to bring them into our order. The first has been Alistair. The young templar was about to take his vows, but he was unhappy, that I could see, along with his good and loyal hearth, in spite at being not the best fighter in the ChantryÆs order of protectors.
Then, as the danger of a new blight approached, I travelled to Orzammar, to investigate the Deep Roads, where the Darkspawn usually dwell unless they are preparing to once spread their taint onto the surface. Such is what a minor Darkspawn activity in the Deep Roads usually signifies. Imagine my surprise when the second-born of House Aeducan, OrzammarÆs ruling house, walked out of a tunnel in the deep roads, dressed in just cloth garments and a ruined and bloody leather armour, in deep contrast with the finely crafted dwarven plate he had been donning just a few days before.
--
ôLord Aeducan!ö He was even missing gloves and boots, his bare foot covered in Darkspawn and deep-stalker blood. He could still see the nobility and the skill in his movements, the very way he walked, but his visage told another story to the untrained eye, and the sadness in his eyes was something new too. ôWhat are you doing here alone? Where are your troops?ö
ôà I am Lord Aeducan no longer.ö The dwarf replied, his head standing tall to stare Duncan in the eyes, letting his black beard and braided hair into clear sight, surrounding a big, in human standards, but normal-shaped nose and charcoal eyes.
ôAh.ö Renouncing his houseÆs name and finding him in the Deep Roads, armed only of a sword and a shield and of an armour which he had probably stripped from another unfortunate soul that had suffered his same destiny and a worse end, immediately led the Grey Warden commander to a single conclusion. ôYouÆve been made to walk the Deep Roads, then.ö
ôYou mean you were exiled? What happened?ö Another Grey Warden, a large sword carried on his back, asked him out of curiosity.
ôI do not think matters of dwarven honour are any business of us.ö Duncan immediately intervened, knowing that many if not all exiled dwarves werenÆt particularly eager to speak of the reasons of their exile. ôYou need not answer, friend.ö
ôà Thank you.ö The dwarf this time lowered his head as he replied, the sting of betrayal still fresh in his mind and it wasnÆt like he wouldnÆt be talking about it soon. The only way out of the roads and to the surface was through Orzammar, after all.
ôItÆs not the way of this order to pass judgment on the pasts of others.ö Duncan continued, to reassure the dwarf, already understanding why he had been looking for them. ôYouÆve already proven yourself both resourceful and skilled, and I would expect nothing less from an Aeducan. I have been searching for those with your level of ability. Your exploit in the Deep Roads set you apart.ö
ôà So you already know why IÆm here, Duncan.ö The dwarf raised his head again, standing proud again, even if he had been searching for the Grey Warden so that he could save his life, or at least grant him another chance at it.
ôà I do.ö The older warrior nodded in acknowledgement of his intentions. ôAs leader of the Grey Wardens in Ferelden, I would like to formally invite you to join our order.ö
ôI would be honoured but again, I am Aeducan no more, Duncan.ö The ex-noble extended his right arm towards Duncan, to offer his hand to shake. ôI am only Duran, now.ö
--
Upon our return to Orzammar, we found out about DuranÆs situation. How he had been accused of having killed his eldest brother, Trian, and how he was denied a due judgment no doubt because of the younger brother, Bhelen. Again, I was faced with the dark side of dwarven politics, but there was nothing I could do for our newest companion.
But if the exile of the second born of house Aeducan had surprised me, nothing had prepared for what is probably going to pass as the most unexpected outcome for a Proving ever held in Orzammar. A single contender had been going through an opponent after the other, with skill and determination rarely seen even in the holy grounds of the Warrior caste. After defeating three opponents, imagine the groundsÆ surprise when Everd, the warrior who was supposed to be fighting, came out into the arena, the effects of alcohol impairing his movements and speech.
--
ôIs my bout already?ö The drunk dwarf staggered towards the center of the arena, where another fighter wearing his armor. ôHey! ThatÆs my armooor!ö Duncan had noticed how the fighter had frozen up upon hearing the drunkÆs voice, and the way he was slowly turning around to meet the real Everd. The entire arena erupted into an uproar.
ôWho are you?! How dare you disrupt this sacredàö The arena grandmaster was about to shout at the newcomer, but what was supposed to be EverdÆs first opponent, Mainar, cut him off.
ôWait! I know that man!ö He shouted, anger clear in his voice. ôThatÆs Everd! Thenà What impostor did I fight?!ö
ôRemove your helmet, warrior.ö The grandmaster returned his attention to the unknown æimpostorÆ, who was currently spinning on his feet, looking at the arena, who just a few moments before was cheering him on, and now shouted in outrage. ôAnd let all who watch you see your face.ö
ôà Iàö The unknown warrior stopped moving to raised his head and stare at the grandmasterÆs balcony, and even through armour, Duncan could recognize clenched fists. ôI am of no caste or house, but I have defeated all of you!!!ö
The voice and the words both shocked everyone in the arena, because they revealed two things. The matter was taking more and more of DuncanÆs interest. The guards of the arena started walking towards the warrior, weapons at the ready. The impostor did not falter though, and he then brought both his hands to the side of the helmet, lifting it and throwing it to the ground, and in doing so, confirming DuncanÆs suspects. ôMy name is Natia! Natia Brasca!ö
First thing, the warrior wasnÆt a he, but a she. A woman, a female dwarf. Second, she wasnÆt a member of the caste, nor was she of any other caste or any house. The distinctive tattoo on her right cheek, barely brushed by a strand of sweaty dark brown hair confirmed it. The arena thundered with outraged shouts. The grandmaster was furious. Duncan finally got up from his chair to better observe the warrior, who kept on staring in defiance, her blue eyes narrowed.
ôCastless! You insult the very nature of this proving!ö The grey bearded dwarf shouted, his whole body trembling with rage. ôGuards! Take thisà Filth away!ö He barked, and then walked away as the guards obeyed, his face contorted in a mask of pure disgust.
ôHold your men, I pray you.ö Duncan walked after him, stopping the dwarf dead in his tracks with his words. ôThis warrior has defeated the best you have to offer. Is this not what this Proving is for?ö
ôWe are honoured by your presence, Warden, but this Proving is not solely for you.ö The grandmaster turned around to address the Grey Warden directly, his tone becoming normal again. ôThere are laws which have governed this arena for a thousand years.ö His eyes narrowed again as he pointed at the woman standing in the middle of the arena again. ôThis woman is no warrior. She is castless, rejected by the ancestors. Her very footsteps pollute the stone. She has no place here!ö
ôExcept as your champion.ö Duncan replied and then turned away, having just found a good occasion with which to exercise the right of conscription.
--
It was later revealed that the woman had taken EverdÆs place after she found the warrior passed out for a matter of bets concerning her employer, the late criminal headmaster of the city of Orzammar. Late, because Natia killed him as she broke out of his headquartersÆ jail along with her partner. Natia Brasca is her name, and that was the second potential recruit I left Orzammar with, and I am pleased to write on these pages that both her and Duran Aeducan have survived the joining and joined the ranks of the Grey Wardens two months prior to this day.
It is a good thing, since weÆre going to need all the Grey Wardens available very soon. As I write, we are preparing for battle against the Darkspawn at Orzammar, and I fear that this may be the start of a new Blight. In the last few days I have journeyed again to press for more help from the Circle of Magi and to find new recruits. While the former objective has not been reached, I can again write of having been able to accomplish the second.
--
ôShe did it for love.ö
ôYouÆre a friend, but you neednÆt defend me any more.ö The young elf blinked at the chantry sisterÆs words but understood, and so obeyed. ôKnight-Commanderà Ià I was wrong. I was accomplice to aà A blood mage.ö The red-haired woman continued, and then approached Greagoir. ôI will accept whatever punishment you see fit. Evenà Even Aeonar.ö
ôGet her out of my sight.ö The old commander of the order of the Templars commanded, turning away from the woman as his subordinates took her away. A chantry sister that not only had helped a blood mage, but had also broken her vows of chastity, but his immediate concern was for the other mage involved. ôAnd you. You were in a repository full of magics that are locked away for a reason.ö
ôDid you take anything important from the repository?ö The First Enchanter Irving asked the young woman, who raised her head to reveal her pretty face, long straw-coloured hair pulled back in a small ponytail with two single bangs falling in front of her face, azure eyes adorned with blue eyeshade and the area around her right one adorned by a tattoo, staring back at the powerful mage.
ôYes, this staff. You can have it back if you like.ö She replied, earning a æHmphÆ from the Knight-Commander.
ôSome honesty, at last.ö He intended it more as mockery than a compliment, though. ôBut your antics have made a mockery of this circle! Ahà What are we to do with you?ö
ôDo what you like. I stand by my decision of helping Jowan.ö Those words took by surprise everyone in the room, templars, mages and Grey Warden alike. Greagoir was the first to recover.
ôYou helped a blood mage escape. All our prevention measures for naughtà Because of you!ö He seemed about ready to lose it.
ôKnight-Commander, if I mayàö That was the moment Duncan chose to cut in, having recovered from the effect of JowanÆs blood magic. Everyone attention immediately focused on the Grey Warden. ôI am not only looking for mages to join the kingÆs army, IÆm also recruiting for the Grey Wardens. Irving spoke highly of this mage, and I would like her to join the WardensÆ ranks.ö
ôDuncan, this mage has assisted a maleficar, and showed a lack of respect for the CircleÆs rules.ö Irving intervened, knowing well that Greagoir was going to oppose the decision nonetheless.
ôShe is a danger. To all of us!ö The Templar barked, narrowing his eyes at the elf mage.
Though, Duncan had been impressed not by her skills or her honesty, but her boldness of a few seconds before when questioned about her actions. ôIt is a rare person who risks all for a friend in need.ö The Grey Warden voiced his opinion and his reasons. ôI stand by my decision. I will recruit this mage.ö
ôNo! I refuse to let this go unpunished!ö Greagoir lost it for real, this time, shouting his dissent out loud at both Irving and Duncan.
ôà If the Grey Wardens will have me, I will gladly go.ö The elf woman turned to Duncan and then bowed to him in sign of respect. ôI introduce myself again, Duncan. I am Neria.ö
--
Neria Kallian Tabris is her full name. She had been living in the Denerim alienage for the first eight years of her life, until the day she showed powers as a mage and got taken away to the Circle Tower for apprenticeship. She told me that she was grateful for the chance, since it meant that she could one day visit her family in Denerim, and she talked about her cousin who was getting married as we travelled.
The second promising recruit I found on the way back to Ostagar is an elf too, but of another origin and upbringing. A clansman of the Dalish folk who has been unfortunate enough to chance upon a forgotten relic of the Tevinter Imperium, tainted by the DarkspawnÆs curse.
--
ôà I would be honoured, but how did this come about?ö The young elf asked, his calm attitude not faltering in the slightest at hearing that the Grey Warden who had come to warn his clan about the Darkspawn threat and who had rescued him in the ruins, but he demanded explanations.
ôThe Darkspawn taint courses through your veins.ö Duncan answered truthfully, knowing fully well that even if the elfÆs constitution and will had aided him in overcoming the first assault of the taint, he would still succumb in the end. ôThat you recovered at all is remarkable, but eventually the taint will sicken and kill you, or worse. The Grey Wardens can prevent that, but it means joining us.ö
ôà Then I will join you.ö The dalish elf nodded in acknowledgement of DuncanÆs reason, visibly relaxing in the Grey WardenÆs presence.
ôI welcome you to the order.ö Duncan crossed his arms across his chest and bowed to the young archer, observing his long black hair pulled back in a ponytail, and his piercing, slightly narrowed onix eyes, and the flowing blood writing adorning his forehead, cheekbones and chin. ôIt is rare to have a Dalish amongst us, but they have always served with distinction.ö
ôI know youÆll do your clan proud, dalÆen.ö The keeper understood that this could be the last time their brother saw his clan, and as such knew that it was better to give to the child what was his right at that moment. She picked a small object from one of her pockets and handed him to the elf. ôTake this ring. It is your heritage, and will protect you against the darkness to come.ö
ôA valuable gift.ö Duncan commented, understanding the meaning of a clan member receiving something related to the elvesÆ long forgotten history. ôSoà Are you ready to go?ö
ô... Yes.ö The elf replied almost immediately.
ôThen say your farewells, and let us be off. We have much ground to cover.ö The whole Dalish clan joined in seeing their brother off. For the first time in centuries in Ferelden, a Dalish would take up the mantle of the Grey Wardens. His name was Theron, of the clan Mahariel.
--
I have arrived in Ostagar this morning with these two recruits in tow. They are currently preparing themselves for the task preceding the joining. Even with their added strength, though, I still fear for the outcome of this battle. I wish the king would wait for reinforcement from Orlais, but teyrn Loghain isà
ôà Back! The king has no timeàö
ôHe will make time!ö Duncan stopped writing upon the small book he had opened upon a table, his concentration broken by shouts. He raised his head to be met with the visage of a young human man pushing past a soldier, heading for the tent of king Cailan, mostly thanks to the growling mabari hound following him.
ôà Before the storm one is supposed to have the calmàö Duncan closed the book and put it back in the pouch he kept on the back of his belt, managing to walk and stop the boy before he rushed inside the kingÆs tent and interrupted an already strenuous meeting between the regent and his general. ôPlease hold, young man. What is it that you desire of the king?ö
Duncan took the occasion to take in the manÆs appearance. Long black hair kept loose and green eyes, pink skin complexion. What caught his attention though was that both he and his hound were incredibly dirty and bloody, and his armour sported a few cuts and relative injuries that looked patched up and healed roughly. The manÆs hair donned a classical twig between them. ôIÆm Aedan Cousland, of the Couslands of Highever! Son of the teyrn! And I demand justice!ö
ôà Justice?ö Duncan tasted the word, understanding that there was a story behind it. ôI understandà But donÆt you think that the king would be a little put off fromà Your appearance?ö
ôMy appeaàö His expression was like he had just fallen out of a cloud, like he couldnÆt comprehend what Duncan was saying. Then, it downed on him and he lowered his head, gritting his teeth. ôà IÆve been travelling for ten daysà And before that, the fightàö
ôI understand that youÆve probably have urgent matters to deal with the kingà My lord Cousland.ö Duncan continued, and the mention of his family name seemed to calm the young man down enough for him to remember that he was also pretty tired and injured. ôBut donÆt you think we should get you patched up and cleaned? Also, when was the last time you ate something?ö
ôà Two days ago. I-IÆve been travelling non-stop for ten daysà After I escaped the siegeàö The human noble brought a hand to his face, as suddenly feeling the weight of ten days of travelling with scarce rest and eating. Duncan nodded in acknowledgment and put a hand on his left shoulder, while he used the other to dismiss the soldiers.
ôCome. WeÆll take you to the healers so that they can get you clean and patch you up. Then, we will find you something to eatàö A very loud bark got his attention, and made him lower his head to stare at the mabari hound, who regarded him with an almost pitiful whine. ôà Of course, something for you too. The kennel master has many mabari hounds, so he has plenty of food.ö An happy bark was the reply.
That said, here's what I've written till now and then some...
The weakness of us Gray Wardens has always been our scarce number. Compared to the armies of the various kingdoms and circles, we are like a drop in the sea. This is further true in Ferelden, where our order has been exiled for two centuries.
The secrecy about our inner workings and rituals due to the risks and sacrifices we make for the greater good, prevents us from recruiting at large. This has also made us careful in the choosing of candidates for the joining, valuing skills and overall power over anything else, which has led to unfortunate accidents in our history, but such is our way: anything to defeat the Darkspawn Taint.
A few times though, our orders have been graced with individuals who seem to shine with the light of hope, of makings that go behind fighting Darkspawn. I have been fortunate enough to meet quite a few of such individuals in the last months, and to bring them into our order. The first has been Alistair. The young templar was about to take his vows, but he was unhappy, that I could see, along with his good and loyal hearth, in spite at being not the best fighter in the ChantryÆs order of protectors.
Then, as the danger of a new blight approached, I travelled to Orzammar, to investigate the Deep Roads, where the Darkspawn usually dwell unless they are preparing to once spread their taint onto the surface. Such is what a minor Darkspawn activity in the Deep Roads usually signifies. Imagine my surprise when the second-born of House Aeducan, OrzammarÆs ruling house, walked out of a tunnel in the deep roads, dressed in just cloth garments and a ruined and bloody leather armour, in deep contrast with the finely crafted dwarven plate he had been donning just a few days before.
--
ôLord Aeducan!ö He was even missing gloves and boots, his bare foot covered in Darkspawn and deep-stalker blood. He could still see the nobility and the skill in his movements, the very way he walked, but his visage told another story to the untrained eye, and the sadness in his eyes was something new too. ôWhat are you doing here alone? Where are your troops?ö
ôà I am Lord Aeducan no longer.ö The dwarf replied, his head standing tall to stare Duncan in the eyes, letting his black beard and braided hair into clear sight, surrounding a big, in human standards, but normal-shaped nose and charcoal eyes.
ôAh.ö Renouncing his houseÆs name and finding him in the Deep Roads, armed only of a sword and a shield and of an armour which he had probably stripped from another unfortunate soul that had suffered his same destiny and a worse end, immediately led the Grey Warden commander to a single conclusion. ôYouÆve been made to walk the Deep Roads, then.ö
ôYou mean you were exiled? What happened?ö Another Grey Warden, a large sword carried on his back, asked him out of curiosity.
ôI do not think matters of dwarven honour are any business of us.ö Duncan immediately intervened, knowing that many if not all exiled dwarves werenÆt particularly eager to speak of the reasons of their exile. ôYou need not answer, friend.ö
ôà Thank you.ö The dwarf this time lowered his head as he replied, the sting of betrayal still fresh in his mind and it wasnÆt like he wouldnÆt be talking about it soon. The only way out of the roads and to the surface was through Orzammar, after all.
ôItÆs not the way of this order to pass judgment on the pasts of others.ö Duncan continued, to reassure the dwarf, already understanding why he had been looking for them. ôYouÆve already proven yourself both resourceful and skilled, and I would expect nothing less from an Aeducan. I have been searching for those with your level of ability. Your exploit in the Deep Roads set you apart.ö
ôà So you already know why IÆm here, Duncan.ö The dwarf raised his head again, standing proud again, even if he had been searching for the Grey Warden so that he could save his life, or at least grant him another chance at it.
ôà I do.ö The older warrior nodded in acknowledgement of his intentions. ôAs leader of the Grey Wardens in Ferelden, I would like to formally invite you to join our order.ö
ôI would be honoured but again, I am Aeducan no more, Duncan.ö The ex-noble extended his right arm towards Duncan, to offer his hand to shake. ôI am only Duran, now.ö
--
Upon our return to Orzammar, we found out about DuranÆs situation. How he had been accused of having killed his eldest brother, Trian, and how he was denied a due judgment no doubt because of the younger brother, Bhelen. Again, I was faced with the dark side of dwarven politics, but there was nothing I could do for our newest companion.
But if the exile of the second born of house Aeducan had surprised me, nothing had prepared for what is probably going to pass as the most unexpected outcome for a Proving ever held in Orzammar. A single contender had been going through an opponent after the other, with skill and determination rarely seen even in the holy grounds of the Warrior caste. After defeating three opponents, imagine the groundsÆ surprise when Everd, the warrior who was supposed to be fighting, came out into the arena, the effects of alcohol impairing his movements and speech.
--
ôIs my bout already?ö The drunk dwarf staggered towards the center of the arena, where another fighter wearing his armor. ôHey! ThatÆs my armooor!ö Duncan had noticed how the fighter had frozen up upon hearing the drunkÆs voice, and the way he was slowly turning around to meet the real Everd. The entire arena erupted into an uproar.
ôWho are you?! How dare you disrupt this sacredàö The arena grandmaster was about to shout at the newcomer, but what was supposed to be EverdÆs first opponent, Mainar, cut him off.
ôWait! I know that man!ö He shouted, anger clear in his voice. ôThatÆs Everd! Thenà What impostor did I fight?!ö
ôRemove your helmet, warrior.ö The grandmaster returned his attention to the unknown æimpostorÆ, who was currently spinning on his feet, looking at the arena, who just a few moments before was cheering him on, and now shouted in outrage. ôAnd let all who watch you see your face.ö
ôà Iàö The unknown warrior stopped moving to raised his head and stare at the grandmasterÆs balcony, and even through armour, Duncan could recognize clenched fists. ôI am of no caste or house, but I have defeated all of you!!!ö
The voice and the words both shocked everyone in the arena, because they revealed two things. The matter was taking more and more of DuncanÆs interest. The guards of the arena started walking towards the warrior, weapons at the ready. The impostor did not falter though, and he then brought both his hands to the side of the helmet, lifting it and throwing it to the ground, and in doing so, confirming DuncanÆs suspects. ôMy name is Natia! Natia Brasca!ö
First thing, the warrior wasnÆt a he, but a she. A woman, a female dwarf. Second, she wasnÆt a member of the caste, nor was she of any other caste or any house. The distinctive tattoo on her right cheek, barely brushed by a strand of sweaty dark brown hair confirmed it. The arena thundered with outraged shouts. The grandmaster was furious. Duncan finally got up from his chair to better observe the warrior, who kept on staring in defiance, her blue eyes narrowed.
ôCastless! You insult the very nature of this proving!ö The grey bearded dwarf shouted, his whole body trembling with rage. ôGuards! Take thisà Filth away!ö He barked, and then walked away as the guards obeyed, his face contorted in a mask of pure disgust.
ôHold your men, I pray you.ö Duncan walked after him, stopping the dwarf dead in his tracks with his words. ôThis warrior has defeated the best you have to offer. Is this not what this Proving is for?ö
ôWe are honoured by your presence, Warden, but this Proving is not solely for you.ö The grandmaster turned around to address the Grey Warden directly, his tone becoming normal again. ôThere are laws which have governed this arena for a thousand years.ö His eyes narrowed again as he pointed at the woman standing in the middle of the arena again. ôThis woman is no warrior. She is castless, rejected by the ancestors. Her very footsteps pollute the stone. She has no place here!ö
ôExcept as your champion.ö Duncan replied and then turned away, having just found a good occasion with which to exercise the right of conscription.
--
It was later revealed that the woman had taken EverdÆs place after she found the warrior passed out for a matter of bets concerning her employer, the late criminal headmaster of the city of Orzammar. Late, because Natia killed him as she broke out of his headquartersÆ jail along with her partner. Natia Brasca is her name, and that was the second potential recruit I left Orzammar with, and I am pleased to write on these pages that both her and Duran Aeducan have survived the joining and joined the ranks of the Grey Wardens two months prior to this day.
It is a good thing, since weÆre going to need all the Grey Wardens available very soon. As I write, we are preparing for battle against the Darkspawn at Orzammar, and I fear that this may be the start of a new Blight. In the last few days I have journeyed again to press for more help from the Circle of Magi and to find new recruits. While the former objective has not been reached, I can again write of having been able to accomplish the second.
--
ôShe did it for love.ö
ôYouÆre a friend, but you neednÆt defend me any more.ö The young elf blinked at the chantry sisterÆs words but understood, and so obeyed. ôKnight-Commanderà Ià I was wrong. I was accomplice to aà A blood mage.ö The red-haired woman continued, and then approached Greagoir. ôI will accept whatever punishment you see fit. Evenà Even Aeonar.ö
ôGet her out of my sight.ö The old commander of the order of the Templars commanded, turning away from the woman as his subordinates took her away. A chantry sister that not only had helped a blood mage, but had also broken her vows of chastity, but his immediate concern was for the other mage involved. ôAnd you. You were in a repository full of magics that are locked away for a reason.ö
ôDid you take anything important from the repository?ö The First Enchanter Irving asked the young woman, who raised her head to reveal her pretty face, long straw-coloured hair pulled back in a small ponytail with two single bangs falling in front of her face, azure eyes adorned with blue eyeshade and the area around her right one adorned by a tattoo, staring back at the powerful mage.
ôYes, this staff. You can have it back if you like.ö She replied, earning a æHmphÆ from the Knight-Commander.
ôSome honesty, at last.ö He intended it more as mockery than a compliment, though. ôBut your antics have made a mockery of this circle! Ahà What are we to do with you?ö
ôDo what you like. I stand by my decision of helping Jowan.ö Those words took by surprise everyone in the room, templars, mages and Grey Warden alike. Greagoir was the first to recover.
ôYou helped a blood mage escape. All our prevention measures for naughtà Because of you!ö He seemed about ready to lose it.
ôKnight-Commander, if I mayàö That was the moment Duncan chose to cut in, having recovered from the effect of JowanÆs blood magic. Everyone attention immediately focused on the Grey Warden. ôI am not only looking for mages to join the kingÆs army, IÆm also recruiting for the Grey Wardens. Irving spoke highly of this mage, and I would like her to join the WardensÆ ranks.ö
ôDuncan, this mage has assisted a maleficar, and showed a lack of respect for the CircleÆs rules.ö Irving intervened, knowing well that Greagoir was going to oppose the decision nonetheless.
ôShe is a danger. To all of us!ö The Templar barked, narrowing his eyes at the elf mage.
Though, Duncan had been impressed not by her skills or her honesty, but her boldness of a few seconds before when questioned about her actions. ôIt is a rare person who risks all for a friend in need.ö The Grey Warden voiced his opinion and his reasons. ôI stand by my decision. I will recruit this mage.ö
ôNo! I refuse to let this go unpunished!ö Greagoir lost it for real, this time, shouting his dissent out loud at both Irving and Duncan.
ôà If the Grey Wardens will have me, I will gladly go.ö The elf woman turned to Duncan and then bowed to him in sign of respect. ôI introduce myself again, Duncan. I am Neria.ö
--
Neria Kallian Tabris is her full name. She had been living in the Denerim alienage for the first eight years of her life, until the day she showed powers as a mage and got taken away to the Circle Tower for apprenticeship. She told me that she was grateful for the chance, since it meant that she could one day visit her family in Denerim, and she talked about her cousin who was getting married as we travelled.
The second promising recruit I found on the way back to Ostagar is an elf too, but of another origin and upbringing. A clansman of the Dalish folk who has been unfortunate enough to chance upon a forgotten relic of the Tevinter Imperium, tainted by the DarkspawnÆs curse.
--
ôà I would be honoured, but how did this come about?ö The young elf asked, his calm attitude not faltering in the slightest at hearing that the Grey Warden who had come to warn his clan about the Darkspawn threat and who had rescued him in the ruins, but he demanded explanations.
ôThe Darkspawn taint courses through your veins.ö Duncan answered truthfully, knowing fully well that even if the elfÆs constitution and will had aided him in overcoming the first assault of the taint, he would still succumb in the end. ôThat you recovered at all is remarkable, but eventually the taint will sicken and kill you, or worse. The Grey Wardens can prevent that, but it means joining us.ö
ôà Then I will join you.ö The dalish elf nodded in acknowledgement of DuncanÆs reason, visibly relaxing in the Grey WardenÆs presence.
ôI welcome you to the order.ö Duncan crossed his arms across his chest and bowed to the young archer, observing his long black hair pulled back in a ponytail, and his piercing, slightly narrowed onix eyes, and the flowing blood writing adorning his forehead, cheekbones and chin. ôIt is rare to have a Dalish amongst us, but they have always served with distinction.ö
ôI know youÆll do your clan proud, dalÆen.ö The keeper understood that this could be the last time their brother saw his clan, and as such knew that it was better to give to the child what was his right at that moment. She picked a small object from one of her pockets and handed him to the elf. ôTake this ring. It is your heritage, and will protect you against the darkness to come.ö
ôA valuable gift.ö Duncan commented, understanding the meaning of a clan member receiving something related to the elvesÆ long forgotten history. ôSoà Are you ready to go?ö
ô... Yes.ö The elf replied almost immediately.
ôThen say your farewells, and let us be off. We have much ground to cover.ö The whole Dalish clan joined in seeing their brother off. For the first time in centuries in Ferelden, a Dalish would take up the mantle of the Grey Wardens. His name was Theron, of the clan Mahariel.
--
I have arrived in Ostagar this morning with these two recruits in tow. They are currently preparing themselves for the task preceding the joining. Even with their added strength, though, I still fear for the outcome of this battle. I wish the king would wait for reinforcement from Orlais, but teyrn Loghain isà
ôà Back! The king has no timeàö
ôHe will make time!ö Duncan stopped writing upon the small book he had opened upon a table, his concentration broken by shouts. He raised his head to be met with the visage of a young human man pushing past a soldier, heading for the tent of king Cailan, mostly thanks to the growling mabari hound following him.
ôà Before the storm one is supposed to have the calmàö Duncan closed the book and put it back in the pouch he kept on the back of his belt, managing to walk and stop the boy before he rushed inside the kingÆs tent and interrupted an already strenuous meeting between the regent and his general. ôPlease hold, young man. What is it that you desire of the king?ö
Duncan took the occasion to take in the manÆs appearance. Long black hair kept loose and green eyes, pink skin complexion. What caught his attention though was that both he and his hound were incredibly dirty and bloody, and his armour sported a few cuts and relative injuries that looked patched up and healed roughly. The manÆs hair donned a classical twig between them. ôIÆm Aedan Cousland, of the Couslands of Highever! Son of the teyrn! And I demand justice!ö
ôà Justice?ö Duncan tasted the word, understanding that there was a story behind it. ôI understandà But donÆt you think that the king would be a little put off fromà Your appearance?ö
ôMy appeaàö His expression was like he had just fallen out of a cloud, like he couldnÆt comprehend what Duncan was saying. Then, it downed on him and he lowered his head, gritting his teeth. ôà IÆve been travelling for ten daysà And before that, the fightàö
ôI understand that youÆve probably have urgent matters to deal with the kingà My lord Cousland.ö Duncan continued, and the mention of his family name seemed to calm the young man down enough for him to remember that he was also pretty tired and injured. ôBut donÆt you think we should get you patched up and cleaned? Also, when was the last time you ate something?ö
ôà Two days ago. I-IÆve been travelling non-stop for ten daysà After I escaped the siegeàö The human noble brought a hand to his face, as suddenly feeling the weight of ten days of travelling with scarce rest and eating. Duncan nodded in acknowledgment and put a hand on his left shoulder, while he used the other to dismiss the soldiers.
ôCome. WeÆll take you to the healers so that they can get you clean and patch you up. Then, we will find you something to eatàö A very loud bark got his attention, and made him lower his head to stare at the mabari hound, who regarded him with an almost pitiful whine. ôà Of course, something for you too. The kennel master has many mabari hounds, so he has plenty of food.ö An happy bark was the reply.
Um... Duncan would know jack about dwarven uses and costumes. Hell, he actually properly greeted a CASTELESS, and flatly admits he knows next to nothing about Dwarven society. Even in the game, he simply says he doesn't CARE what caused the Aeducan scion to be exiled, he just thinks it'd be a waste to let him die there.
Just saying that him displaying any sensitivity about dwarven issues is unlikely at best.
Just saying that him displaying any sensitivity about dwarven issues is unlikely at best.
This one. Duncan can't even tell a casteless or exiled dwarf apart from a regular one at first, how the fuck would he know that dwarves prefer not to speak about the circumstances of their exile? It is more common courtesy and lack of any real interest than him knowing anything about dwarves.
Don't fall in the pit trap I've seen other authors fall into, of Duncan being all-knowing and a nice guy. He's showed a massive amount of ignorance, all things considered, and he outright tells you himself that he's not a nice guy, and is willing to commit even barbaric acts for the cause. Dedicated, he is. Nice, he is not.
He uses courtesy because it's the best course of action since Wardens are still eyed suspiciously in Ferelden and are treading on thin ice with nobility, but he's also shown that he just plain doesn't care about anything that doesn't directly influence his mission. When your chosen Origin refuses to follow for a good reason (namely, because he cooperated with Irving in the Tower and thus is at no real danger even if he stays), Duncan completely disregards the character's wish to stay and continue serving in the Tower by forcefully conscripting him anyway.
So yeah... writing him as somewhat callous rather than sensible and all that shit is probably the more correct course of action. He's not evil, but he falls squarely in the Well Intentioned Extremist category.
Don't fall in the pit trap I've seen other authors fall into, of Duncan being all-knowing and a nice guy. He's showed a massive amount of ignorance, all things considered, and he outright tells you himself that he's not a nice guy, and is willing to commit even barbaric acts for the cause. Dedicated, he is. Nice, he is not.
He uses courtesy because it's the best course of action since Wardens are still eyed suspiciously in Ferelden and are treading on thin ice with nobility, but he's also shown that he just plain doesn't care about anything that doesn't directly influence his mission. When your chosen Origin refuses to follow for a good reason (namely, because he cooperated with Irving in the Tower and thus is at no real danger even if he stays), Duncan completely disregards the character's wish to stay and continue serving in the Tower by forcefully conscripting him anyway.
So yeah... writing him as somewhat callous rather than sensible and all that shit is probably the more correct course of action. He's not evil, but he falls squarely in the Well Intentioned Extremist category.
Hmm... That's what I wanted the commoner dwarf go for, though, or better, she's out for her own skin and her sister's. I was thinking of the noble being the honourable one of the group...
Human Noble: Hot Headed One
Dalish Elf: Cold Faced One
Dwarf Noble: Honourable One
Mage/City Elf: Good Hearted One
Dwarf Commoner: Self-Centered One
Human Noble: Hot Headed One
Dalish Elf: Cold Faced One
Dwarf Noble: Honourable One
Mage/City Elf: Good Hearted One
Dwarf Commoner: Self-Centered One
Dwarven commoners just want to survive. They tend to not be especially arrogant, because arrogance gets them killed fast, as they have no rights and are treated as only slightly better than Darkspawn.
Dwarven nobles, OTOH, elevated arrogance to an art. Just check out some of the responses you can give and the very possible callous disregard for life you can have.
The one most likely to be the noble type, in fact, is the human noble. And even he can display a spectacular lack of tact by slamming the Chantry in front of the resident priestess and trying to woo a man and a woman at the same time... but all in all, the Cousland kid is a good person.
Dwarven nobles, OTOH, elevated arrogance to an art. Just check out some of the responses you can give and the very possible callous disregard for life you can have.
The one most likely to be the noble type, in fact, is the human noble. And even he can display a spectacular lack of tact by slamming the Chantry in front of the resident priestess and trying to woo a man and a woman at the same time... but all in all, the Cousland kid is a good person.
GH is right. While you can be rather tactless and mean-spirited, the Cousland origin mostly nudges you into the role of an honourable and benevolent noble.
When you play as the Aeducan, on the other hand, you are, from the very start, given the option to have people killed for being disrespectful around you, threatening them to speak well of you, and generally being an all-around arrogant ass.
The Casteless and the Dalish I could see with a very similar, self-centered and harsh, outlook on life; looking after themselves and those close to them first and foremost, and everyone else not at all.
After all, both have to make a living while trying not to anger a group more powerful than they; the Dalish have to take care not to anger the humans too much, and the Casteless have to step lightly around "proper" dwarves.
The City Elf Mage could go several ways. If you want him decidedly good-hearted, you could have him as a student or acquaintance of Wynne.
- Kelenas
When you play as the Aeducan, on the other hand, you are, from the very start, given the option to have people killed for being disrespectful around you, threatening them to speak well of you, and generally being an all-around arrogant ass.
The Casteless and the Dalish I could see with a very similar, self-centered and harsh, outlook on life; looking after themselves and those close to them first and foremost, and everyone else not at all.
After all, both have to make a living while trying not to anger a group more powerful than they; the Dalish have to take care not to anger the humans too much, and the Casteless have to step lightly around "proper" dwarves.
The City Elf Mage could go several ways. If you want him decidedly good-hearted, you could have him as a student or acquaintance of Wynne.
- Kelenas