Fantasy Dragon Age: Fen'Harel {Main}

[Terrier B]

F E N ' H A R E L
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Dragon, 9:50
The Silver Hand & The Ruins of a Lost Guardian,

Leader | Godet Harding | Warrior | ThatGuyWithSouvlaki
Sallis Oranavra | Warrior | Me
Matthias Hawthorne | Rogue Archer | PrankFox
Balinor Folgrimm | Rune Master Warrior | HighSanguinaryPriest
Saar-Raas | Keeper Mage | The Silent Z
Tobrin | Arcane Warrior Mage | BrandedAFreak
Rinaya | Rogue Archer | BrandedAFreak
Sigismund Kardol | Legionnaire Scout Rogue | Becker

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The Silver Hands had set up camp some distance inwards from Halamsharal and the Graves, more towards the Heartlands of the Dales at this point than they were to the outskirts. This suited Sal in truth, for the Emerald Graves always left her, well, just a bit, uneasy. It was an odd feeling she couldn't really describe all to well with words, she just knew for certain that she always felt much better once past the place. The Dales however, never failed to invigorate her. That morning in particular certainly was a beautiful one, full of sunshine, greenery, and light. But the Dales was the sort of place where it was tricky to appear anything but lovely, truth be told. Sallis had certainly never seen them look anything but charming. Shame then, really, that despite their pretty-as-a-picture appearance, these woods had witnessed and harboured their fair share of bloodshed and turmoil. All of this ruin and decay, just because the Elvhen wished to remain loyal to the Pantheon, just because they 'turned from the Maker'. What sort of a God was this Maker, to let such agony endure? Surely not much of a benevolent one...​

​

She let her mind wander a little, gazing out and over the canopy of trees. Ted settled down with a heavy 'Hwuff', resting his head upon her lap and immediately pinning her to the spot in the process. She groaned as his weight settled atop her, heavy old fart of a dog. Sallis sought out the good spot behind his ears, and he snooted his appreciation at her for the favour. She pondered over the old Emerald Knights and their Guardians of old. Teddy wasn't really much of a wolf, but he did help and protect her, sometimes... when he could be bothered... and he'd been fed first...​

​

That's the reason she was up so flippin' early in the first place. Woe betide a Mabari owner who does not attend to their hounds exact feeding schedule. By the Maker, had she learnt that the hard way. Mind you, now that she was awake, she saw no reason why absolutely everyone else shouldn't be either. No reason to keep the day at bay when there's jobs to be done. With a considerable amount of effort, and using most of her muscle power, she eventually shoved Ted off of her lap. Sallis stood, and walked along the fallen stone pillar she had been sat atop of. Reaching the end, she casually raised the rusty old pan she had deemed suitable, and began to very, very, very loudly bash it with a stick.​

​

"Wakeey Waaakeeey, ​

This treasure won't hunt itself you knnooowwww!"​

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Return to Skyhold

Leader | Tabot Danner | Mage | Me
Lord Commander Zeddicus Reginald Cousland | Warrior | The Silent Z
Bryce Cousland II | Mage | Rusty of Shackleford
Sene | Blood Mage | Karcen

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In hindsight, he supposed it was expected really. But all the same, he truthfully didn't think it would be as eerie as it was. Skyhold had not remained wholly uninhabited since the Inquisitions demise. However, the small care-taking team, well, the second small care-taking team allotted to look after the old Keep did not exactly conjure the image of a bustling hold. Especially compared to the height of the Inquisitions numbers and busy-ness, the calm old keep was now off-puttingly still. It was in fact so quiet, that the silence somehow kept making Tabot jump. Perhaps he was finally going mad or something... oh well. As he climbed the steps to the old stone tower, the whistle of the wind made for a brief favourable companion. He stole a glance out towards the frosty valley below, no city of tents resided there any longer. Imagining being stuck in a drafty old tent of all things scattered atop those ice fields made him all the more grateful for his old haunt.​

​

Upon joining the Inquisition way back when, Tabot and his small group of then-apostate mages had casually claimed the attics of one of the South-Western Towers. It was secluded enough away from the general murmur the Great Hall produced for the group to discuss important topics and what have you, and while also, and more importantly, remaining close enough to the kitchens to allow the discreet obtaining of a midnight snack, should one need it. Maker, those days somehow seemed so far away now. Nostalgia began to cloud some of the memories, but they certainly did not taint the accordance of these bloody stairs. By the Maker! Had there really been this many of them the first time around? As if the week-long hike up the valley and mountain hadn't already been enough...​

​

The large attic had remained mainly untouched since both he, and his following had left it last. A fine layer of dust now covered the bare furnishings, but it otherwise remained unchanged. The rare presence of a small smile graced Tabots lips, as he brushed a hand along the cold stone wall. A scorch mark still remained fro that particularly 'fiery' game of Wicked Grace they had had. Oh look! The hidden cubby-hole remained un-found by the Caretakers too. There was nothing left in there now, of course. Save for a old scrap of paper, with a hastily written crude rhyme on it. Tabot was in the middle of committing the obscenity to memory (For future convenient use of course), when a noise broke him from his concentration. It had been the clang of either a door or gate, which meant only one thing. Someone else was here,​

 

[ThatGuyWithSouvlaki]

Godet opened her eyes from her slumber at the sound of the loud banging from one of her mercenaries. She frowned and blew away the strand of her dark hair from her face as she tried to think of appropriate revenge for being woken up. Annoyingly waking up the Silver Hand was her job as leader after all, and part she particularly liked doing and made her look back when she didnt. She turned to her back on her sleeping bag and sat up, moving to peek her head out of her tent. "Sallis, you know it can potentially be bad for ones career if you wake up your boss.... You will be on latrine duty for week." She called out her tone jovial despite the threat, she went to duck back into her tent before sticking her head out again. "Also since I know he is involved Ted is on half rations.... Oh who am I kidding I can't punish him. He just have to do the puppy dog eye. Lousy manipulative loveable dog..."

She ducked her head back in the tent and got prepared for the day ahead. Slipping into her chainmail armour and her silverite gauntlet. She tied her flowing long hair into a bun just in case she would have to put her helmet today. Though there wasn't much of a need for that, rummaging through old elven ruins was hardly a very dangerous role, the worst they faced so far are wolves and bears. No magic, no ancient elves or traps, just stone, junk and only one or two items that can just about be interesting enough for the client. She missed the days she worked with the inquisition, there was a good fight and excitement daily while doing some good and making good money. However since the Exalted Council work from the inquisition dried up and now having to meet a noble whim to make ends meet. One had to do what she had to do.

Once prepared she stepped out of her tent with her axe and knocked the pommel against a shield hard. "OK people, you heard the pan! Up you get, I want us to look at the last site as soon as possible. The sooner we do this the sooner we return to civilization, get paid, get proper bed and ale!"

 

[The Silent Z]

Spoiler: The Journey of a thousand treks

The lands of Fereldan were not without its struggles yet along the coastlands amidst forests, farm lands, cities and ports with exquisite waterfront views sat the lands of Highever and it’s surrounding bannorn, across the way sitting another arling in control of the Couslands, Amaranthine, through marsh and wetlands, across farms and entering ports the lord commander made way for Skyhold.

Setting out months prior well stocked of personal supply to keep him warm through what would be a cold and long journey back to where he thought his time was over. Using memories of his past the aging warrior crossed over various holds and trekking up mountains, his mind like a living map as he recounted the way to the well known fort of the inquisition, retracing his steps to return the once more for a reunion of sorts, sipping upon a flask every so often to help with the bitter cold along way the snow capped mountains and chilling winds as he climbed ever higher.

The supply of various liquor proving a wise and enjoyable decision, he was no drunk, his constitution proved more capable then a common man. But his indulgences were rather known dating back to his younger days as a unproven warrior heir to a noble line. Experiencing many such treks over his years that reached beyond desired counting, Zeddicus was prepared, even if his memories brought a different desire then what lay ahead.

Eventually the noble warrior reached the passage to Skyhold.... Feet sore from a long journey, body relieved to have finally arrived and his eyes gazing upon the old fortress as memories of his time with the inquisition came flooding back into his mind like living it still. Despite his nobility the Cousland lord never used his position to have better accommodations then his men or the common soldiers of any company he fought alongside, instead he knew the importance of knowing those you fought alongside and being of equal ground as any one of them. He could recall the nights sitting around camp fires drinking, sharing stories and playing cards on whatever hard surfaces they could find. He also could remember the faces, names and reasons of each soldier he met and why they fought for the inquisition. Both a gift and curse.....

Still the further he went into the holds grounds, the more he could recall, the more time seemed to stand still as his eyes looked over the grounds he once slept near the barn inside a tent, his hand grazing the well and tracing it with his bare fingers as if something was still there and once was during his time that seemed so long ago, yet so fresh in his mind as if it were only yesterday.

A deep sigh and the closing of his eyes took hold over him and escaped. “Even amidst war there can be beauty still...” Zeddicus spoke softly to himself with a gentle smile in remembrance of his fallen brothers and sisters in arms. “One day we shall meet again and toast our lives. Til then a promise to never forget...” The veteran added finding a peace of mind though he knew why he was here, meanwhile a sip from his flaks as he pulled the silver of rum from his inner coat knocking the locket worn around his neck as he did. A small raise of his flask in toast to those no longer with him and a fair swig from his flask.

Spoiler: A curious adventure

A giant never felt so at home then he did when amongst the trees, birds and various other creatures of the dales, a sight to behold and smile across his often stoic expression as his eyes remained bright and mood happy. Even though it was a job and no time to play, the Qunari mage never felt better and more at peace then he did when back amongst nature and all its glory.


Habbits kept him awake and alert once the skies began to brighten and morning truly started, the sounds of birds chirping and animals dashing through bushes and across the forest grounds, Saar-Raas though not a mercenary at heart had been with the Silverite Hands for sometime now, dating back to the inquisition and it’s war against Corypheus, a alliance of convenience of told truthfully, but he rather enjoyed the company and it did bring with it plenty of opportunities to learn more about other cultures and ways, plenty of chances to travel and see more of the world.

A curious but understanding sort, Saar-Raas caught onto the morning habits of his fellow mercs, leading to him going off and wandering the woods til it was time to return and he’d gathered plenty of supplies the dales had to offer them. He seemed to have a knack for timing once in awhile too, he had just step foot within the camp when noticed the familiar voice of Godet and caught sight of Sallis, hmm, he could only wonder what he missed yet wasn’t about to ask not this time, he’d chance it some other time instead....


Meanwhile the Qunari mage kept observant but quiet, simply eating some sweet berries and dropping off a large wool sack of various things he’d found while out wandering, mostly berries that were safe to eat though mostly gone already, Saar-Raas had a tooth for sweet juicy things especially fruits and a few never seemed to suffice his large frame and weakness for such foods. The rest seemed to be wood useful for fires, other fruits he’d found but hadn’t eaten yet laying atop the fire wood and a smaller sack inside the larger one full of natural ingredients for potions, medicines and such things a healer or alchemist could find useful.

Looking over the group and peacefully eating away the various berries and other fruits he’d kept in his hands, Saar-Raas nodded to Godet’s orders and stood ready to get this done.

 

[HighSanguinaryPriest]

Balinor awoke to the sound of clanging metal. And not the clanging of a smithy. His head throbbed from the hangover that now punished him, and that evil clanging, only made him pissed off. With a growl, the Dwarven Rune Master forced himself to his feet, grabbing his smithing hammer Brigit, and pushed out of his tent. "Stop your fucking banging you Nugg humping bastard! Before I cave your face in with Brigit and use your bones for carbon in me forge!" He roared in both fury and anguish for his pounding head, Waving said hammer at the elf. When she finally stopped, the pissed off and hungover dwarf returned to his tent to get properly dressed, and a bit of the Hair of the dog to ease his throbbing skull. After downing a pint of his own homebrew, the Rune Master quickly set to work donning his armour.

With practiced ease, he had completed the task of dressing, and donning his plate and Silverite gauntlets. Still annoyed at the elf for waking him and the rest of the troop that way, Balinor made his way to his mobile forge/workshop. Despite being a small mercenary band, even they needed their gear repaired. Going through the motions of setting up his furnace and checking his tools, he set Brigit down on the lone anvil and began tending the furnace. He knew one of the members would bring him his meal. If they didn't, not only did they have a pissed off dwarf, but possibly some shoddily made grear that could prove fatal to the wielder. Never piss off the company smith. The last green recruit that did, is now missing four of his fingers due to brittle gauntlets.

Soon enough with the forge to temperature, and his hangover abated, the sound of hammered steel rang out throughout the camp waking any stragglers.

 

[PrankFox]

It was a beautiful morning with dappled sunshine coming through the leaves and the quiet chirping of birds nested in the trees. Matt perched himself comfortably in the lower branches of one of the massive trees that made up The Graves; keeping his eyes trained on an August Ram that grazed quietly about a dozen yards away. He nocked an arrow and glanced down at where Rebel had positioned himself in the thick undergrowth of the forest; immediately prepared to rush out and take down the ram if the arrow didn't. He took a breath and prepared to release the arrow when loud banging began to echo through the trees causing birds to flutter out of the trees and the ram to snap it's head up and flee deeper into the trees. He let out an annoyed huff and looked back towards camp where he was sure that one of the members of the company had woken up those who still slept.

He slung his bow across his back and made his way down the tree; scratching Rebel behind the ears as he did so, "Sorry bud, no fresh meat this time." He walked back through the trees towards camp, the mabari close on his heels. They'd been tackling so many ancient ruins over the past months, and not really finding anything, it felt like they were running in circles. The main difference of this job was that they were actually tasked to be here by some nobleman rather than just looking on their own volition. As Matt walked into their campsite he took note of the noise of Balinor's forge and the shuffling in various tents indicating the rest of the company getting ready. They were probably headed out soon. He picked up one of the fruits resting on the firewood and gave a thankful nod to Saar-Raas as he bit into it.

Catching sight of the stick and rusty pan nearby where Sal stood he walked towards her; stooping down to pat Ted fondly on the head as Rebel plopped himself down in front of Godet. "I take it you're responsible for the awful racket that scared away the ram I was trying to hunt," he directed towards her, a teasing lilt to his voice, "Don't blame me if we're all starving while exploring these ruins."

 

[BrandedAFreak]

Early morning found Tobrin sitting up, awake in his tent. Though he had slept through most of the night, dreams kept bothering him. Ones that he couldn't quite grasp. Over and over again, he would wake up only to be lulled back to sleep by either the quiet sounds of the night or- more likely than not- the snores of those that slept the heaviest in their camp. The dreams, though, wouldn't leave him alone. The more he thought on it, the less sense they made to him.

There was something about this place that unsettled him, though he couldn't quite place his finger on what it was. Perhaps it was the history of the lands around them that unsettled him so much. Or maybe it was the slight arcane feel in the air that he couldn't quite shake off. He had hoped that, with time and some sleep, it would go away, but it still remained with him. Whatever it was, left him feeling out of sorts and rather- shall we say- grouchy? Well, grouchier than normal.

So it wouldn't be much of a surprise that the loud sounds of those waking up- of Sallis' wake up call and Godet's insistence that they rise and even Balinor's loud roar- would have the blind elf muttering under his breath in a mixture of Dalish and Rivaini curses? Still, he dressed quickly and came out of his tent, a scowl already on his face. He caught the tail end of Matthias' comment and gave a small snort but didn't comment on it. Instead, he made his way towards Rinaya's tent, knowing that waking her would be a small chore.

Rinaya was a heavy sleeper and much harder to rouse. It would take a miracle- or rather, Tobrin dragging her out by one of her feet- for her to wake up. And that would be how she would be woken up, by her father dragging her out by one foot. She gave a groggy whine that was cut off by his rasping voice, "The boss is telling us to get up, so we get up." He paused for a moment before adding in a louder voice, "With your permission, Godet, could we get some eyes scouting ahead?"

The blind elf turned towards where he thought Godet might be, unseeing eyes settling on a point that would- most likely- be right over her head. There had to be something- anything- in the area that they could report back on. It had been too long since they had been able to send anything back. Useless little trinkets, for the most part, though Rin had found an old wooden puzzle, similar to one that she'd had as a child.

Rin was already crawling back into her tent to get dressed, rubbing the worst of the sleep from her eyes. She had slept, for the most part, undisturbed. Unlike her father. No dreams to wake her up and nothing that made her feel uncomfortable. If anything, she was looking forward to what else they might find out there. Like Tobrin, she liked learning new things and finding out more about their people that wasn't known before. A smile came to her face as she stepped out of her tent again, dressed for the day, though her hair was a mess. Nothing to be done about it, yet. She would work on it later. "I can scout ahead, if need be," she volunteered at her father's suggestion, a wide smile crossing her face.

 

[Karcen]

After the Inquisition had been disbanded,for the most part, there had been those that had left and those that had stayed in their many strongholds. Sene was one of those that had stayed for she had no choice in her mind but to stay among those who still thought her just a maid or a bumbling apostate. She had not been in the first group that had watched over skyhold, those were all dead slain by a demon, perhaps sent by an old former ally. She was one of the second wave of caretakers, a skeleton crew that barely had enough people and was in truth not expected do do anything beyond keep the place somewhat clean. Such a place was a good place for someone like Sene to hide out taking a long time to approach any force that might come after her would be spotted well in advance. The Inquisition in truth held few fond memories for Sene, there was little for her to think fondly over, she had gone from playing maid to playing incompetent mage. Acting came naturally to her these days she had been acting longer than she had not been acting and this was just a continuation. She was one of those who wrapped lies around them tightly like a blanket on the coldest of nights. Sene had for sometime been wondering if she should just vanish, try to run and hide and hope those she had betrayed would never find her. That she knew was a vain hope her own blood would guide them, the templars would come after her again even though she hadn't done anything wrong it had always been their fault. Still despite how empty Skyhold was few would try to attack it and it was so far out of the way these days that there was no way Sene could do anything against her old employers and they were likely content for long as that status was kept.

The day was just a normal day for Sene, cooking, cleaning, a little yard work, there was little to do in all honesty for no one was left and the cold kept most things from changing. Still even with what was likely enough people to keep the hold clean, they let many places go untouched for long periods as they had been rarely used even long ago. The south western tower was one of those places as it was not close to the main hall, or not close enough to be visited often and thus was left to only get checked on from time to time. It was because of this neglect that Sene noticed the tracks in the dust as she entered the tower. Sene said nothing following the mystery tracks up and up through the tower ever higher and as she did she could figure out who likely had come here. This had been the haunt of a group of apostates lead by their teacher that had been found and folded into the others. Sene had heard there were visitors so perhaps one of those young students had come to remember the old days. It had been years those young boys and girls must surely be grown or nearly grown by now and Sene knew she remained unchanged living of the stolen vitality of others keeping her youth for all her years and their years. Sene was 60 this year, yet she did not look like an old woman, instead she looked like a young maiden just turning 20 and she always had and would for long as her stolen years lasted.

Climbing the tower to the attic once inhabited by the small circle Sene would find Tabot the once leader of that group. He had changed all would change over the years, more lines of wisdom on their faces, more grey hairs as they passed through the years as nature intended. Tabot in truth was not very old, being just past his thirties if Sene remembered right, but he was still a child to her as most people were. Sene kept her face neutral upon seeing him, she had been a maid for 20 years and that was her default mask. She hid her emotions, controlled her expression, and kept her tone professional. Sene knew how to act the ideal quiet maid that would never speak a word of secrets over heard and ever loyal, and how to be the close confidant and friend to her masters giving them the correct words they needed to hear.

" I had heard we had visitors if I had known you were coming I would have tidied here up as it is quiet a mess" Sene said her tone not showing what she felt just a business like tone a servant used with greeting their master or a guest.

 

[ThatGuyWithSouvlaki]

Godet was initially little surprised when Balinor yelled out his irritation of being woken up, she then chuckled starting to find amusing. "You know you sound like an old curmudgeon, you would feel at home among the Shaperate i am told!" She called out to him, trying to tease him over the sound of the forge. "Come back here for a briefing and have breakfast!" She was unsure whether she could be heard over the forge but if need be he can send someone over to get him, though she did not envy anyone who will try to pry Balinor from his forge.

She turned to the other that gathered, shaking her head and winked at Rin as if saying to wait until she said what she needs to say before assigning duties. She smiled affectionately when the Mabari Ted walked up and sat in front of her, she approached him and patted him. "If only I had a dozen of you, I would have had everyone gathered already, had the briefing and be halfway out the camp by now. "She said to Ted before looking at Matt. "No, you can blame Sallis for that, I would have left you guys another hour but still since everyone was up already we might as well get the day started." She then smiled slyly. "Besides I didn't know my lot were so weak they can't last a little without food. Are we mercenaries or what?" She added speaking more loudly as speaking generally to everyone.

"Ok everyone, an earlier start of the day than planned but as the old saying goes: the sooner we start means the sooner we get paid." She began speaking once everyone was gathered, she clapped her hands once. "Today were are going for the main ruin. The old Elvhen temple just to the south-east of here. Local legend tells it is a shrine to the old Emerald Knight of Elvehnan or Dales or whatever it is. I know this might be another wild goose chase but lets not get complacent, lets do this carefully. I have grown rather found of your band of misfits I rather not have you all die from a trap, or falling ruin or fall. That would just be embarrassing for the Silverite Hands."

 

[Terrier B]

Salli turned on her heel, mouth open in obvious dismay at Godet's words, "What! Oh come onnn. You reward me with an additional, and arguably much worse chore just for doing the one I was already?" She huffed, groaned and then went to return the pots and pans to their original holding place. In turn, Ted scratched at his ear a bit, wagged his tail at Godet lazily, burped, and then leisurely trotted on after his Mistress. She had barely escaped from Godet's onslaught of disapproval before Ol' Bali got all wound up about her makeshift alarm call too. She paid him little heed however, waving a hand in his direction nonchalantly and tutting quietly under her breath, "Tut tut Balinor. Did they throw you out of Orzamar for all of that bad language? What must your Mother think..." Despite her mocking, Sallis began to prepare a bowl of porridge for the dwarf, for her bracers could do with a bit of strengthening and there way no way she was going to try and do it herself again, certainly not after last time...

She skipped over to the campfire, spotting their singular Qunari nearby. Her eyes lit up upon seeing the bounty he'd managed to acquire, "Hey Saar-Rass, lend me a handful of them will you? I need to soften up the old shortie, lest I want my wrists breaking mid fight... again," In a forward, yet well-meaning gesture, she helped herself to the mentioned fruits and began her Breakfast preparations. Her ears twitched slightly, as a jovial lilt carried itself over to her from across the campfire. She allowed herself a glance upwards, and couldn't help the small smirk that made its way across her features. She carried on with her task as she replied, "I can't possibly ascertain what you mean Matt, for you surely couldn't be referring to my delightful singing voice of all things." An eyebrow quirked up daringly, "Unless you'd enjoy a face full of porridge that is,"

Godet was well and truly organising everyone into action now, so Sallis got on and hurried up with her impromptu breakfast duties. As Godet spoke, she handed everyone a bowl of the stuff to eat either while listening or possibly on the go in push came to shove. She plopped a few of the borrowed berries into the last bowl while trotting over to the forge. Quietly, with nothing else given but an apologetic smile, she delivered Balinor his breakfast. Her ears again twitched upon the word 'Elvhen' being spoken. If she was being honestly truthful, this place's connection to her true proper heritage excited her beyond words. For she had never been anywhere like this before, and every time they entered one of these old ruins, even if they were doing something as dull as treasure hunting, she felt as if her very mind was set alight. It became a ceaseless hub of questions and curiosity with every artefact they discovered. She wondered if it said questions could ever truly be answered.

Sallis leaned down as Godet finished her briefing, giving Ted a scritch under the chin, "You're like my Guardian you know, might not be a Wolf, but I'd reckon you're certainly the best modern-day equivalent... probably."

====================================================================================================================================

He had been so long in his thoughts, Tabot had not even heard the quiet gentle creak of the towers stairs as Sene made her approach. It was only when she spoke that he was fully broken from his nostalgic daze. He jumped slightly, blinking a little before fully realising there was in fact someone real stood before him. He shook his head, clearing his throat as he did so, "My apologies, this visit was not purposefully made obvious, and I don't believe we will be here for long," He regarded the woman before him for a moment. Something was telling him she was somehow familiar, but by the Maker, he could not place his finger on how. Had she been with the Inquisition too way back when? Did he know her from a past circle perhaps? Tabot frowned softly, brow furrowed in quiet concentration, "Forgive me for asking but, have we met before?"

 

[PrankFox]

Matt watched as Tobrin and Rin went about getting ready for the day and the expedition ahead, "I can scout with Rin if we need to send more than one," he looked back to where Godet was standing, "I've already been out this morning. Fairly quiet from what I can tell so far, but this place gives me a weird feeling." He snapped his fingers at Rebel bringing the mabari to his side and tossing the big brute some dried meat from his satchel, smiling fondly at the dog before grinning back at their leader. "Well I certainly hope we're better than that, but mercenaries are even more prone to complaining than anyone I've ever met." Despite the jests he did listen intently to what Godet said. He'd been around the continent and explored enough ruins to know that the slightest misstep could cost someone a limb or even their life, and that definitely wasn't the most appealing idea. He'd spent the last several years tromping around with this bunch and he would do what he could to keep all of them alive.

At Salli's response he let one eyebrow quirk up in response to the threat while also raising a hand to his chest in a vaguely scandalized manner, "I would never insult your singing voice," he dropped the hand and let the grin take over his face again, "unless it sounds like banging pots and pans in which case you might want to work on it." He walked over and grabbed his own breakfast, "Besides, the boss already ratted you out."

He watched as she walked off towards where the banging of a forge could be heard from Balinor's tent and shook his head slightly. He was already prepared for the trek into the ruins so he let himself sit and relax a moment with breakfast, pulling it away from the salivating jaws of his, supposedly, loyal companion. "You're a real menace you know that," he muttered to Rebel who immediately pulled the most pitiful puppy eyes that likely would've worked on several other members of their company.

Once he and his companion had settled he continued to observe the other members of the camp, letting his thoughts drift a bit to the ruins that they would be heading into soon. He knew the area had special meaning to at least some of the members of their troop, so he didn't plan on saying anything out loud, but the Graves had always given him the sense that something strange was lurking around every corner or watching their every move. It was unnerving but he'd never let anything like that stop him before and he wasn't about to start now. As he finished his breakfast, and set the bowl down for Rebel, he waited for the call that everyone was prepped and ready to head out.

 

[Karcen]

Sene could not blame Tabot for not remembering her, she had only just remembered him and the two had not been close. Who would remember the maid that was made into a bumbling mage. Still whatever he and his group was doing Sene was out of the loop despite them coming here, which normally would have been the talk of the town so to say in this very dull posting. Well it was dull now at least given nothing had tried to kill them yet, but there was always time to get killed latter who knew maybe death would be better than this pretend life Sene had. Still she was far to much of a coward to find out what death really was like, she always had been a coward after all. Sene thought on if she should explain things, but she didn't really want to play the idiot mage for this humans to laugh at., always she played the fool and the humble maid to humans. Sene hated it, she hated playing make believe, yet there was no where else to go, if she left she would be hunted and likely burned at the stake or something equally barbaric by those templars. All because some insane woman got tricked by some spirit.

" I am Sene just one of the maids, likely we met when your group of trouble makers burned or destroyed something " She said dryly trying to direct Tabot from thinking of her as a a mage and towards just begin a maid, after all she didn't look like a mage, dressed as a maid and lacking a staff. " What would bring you to this far flung post, i don't think we have been all killed by a demon, or if we have someone forgot to inform me" She continued

Terrier B

 

[The Silent Z]

The observations of a Qunari mage were always interesting, even as companions spoke and bantered about and others such as Matt gave a appreciative nod to the large fellow, Saar-Raas nodded in turn while eating his berries. The mage didn’t feel a need to talk much, even as curious and interesting as these ruins were, as much adventure and learning could be had and opinions shared, Saar-Raas didn’t feel a need to talk instead continued to observe others.

Truthfully he didn’t fear what lay beyond the camp and in delving further into the ruins. He found that when you wander enough within forests and woods, you can find all sorts of things both troubling and wonderfully curious, some places still had demons laying in wait and whispering in the dark of night to send chills down ones spine and lure you into position. You could find ruins dating back ages with walking dead and hordes of lost treasure guarded by small dragons and medium sized ones too, beasts of all kinds. Spirits were often not far from such places and still wandered with distant voices that echoed....


Instead of concern Saar-Raas was simply curious and wanting it done. Meanwhile the familiar sound of Sal’s voice caught his ear bringing him back to the front of awareness and shifted gaze, looking toward Sallis with a brief look of deduction to figure of which item she meant before nodding a yes to her lit up eyes and skipping over to help herself of some of the fruit for her breakfast preparations. Amidst it all the banter of companions continued, bowls of breakfast were handed out by Sal of whom received a appreciative smile and nod from the big fellow who had just finished his last berry.

The berries while plenty of his own portions were but a snack to occupy his stomach. He wandered about the dales as other slept, gathered, sightseeing about the place, ate berries and still felt a hunger for a second breakfast. Quietly he remained standing and ate his bowl of food while Godet spoke, pondering of what she had to say while wondering if these traps may be connected to a test of some kind? He looked over towards Tobrin and Rin as a offering to scout ahead came about with Matt offering to join the young elf.

Finishing his bowl and gently placing it amongst the dishes as he walked over to them, the Qunari shook his head and ‘hmm’d...’ about in soft but audible manner as he cleaned his bowl with his back turned from the others. A mind wandering the potential ruins that were the main shrine so to speak for the emerald knights. “What are the odds a puzzle or test of intelligence and knowledge is ahead? Every ruin is designed by their creators, their people to keep outsiders from accessing their lore and treasures... most Elven ruins tend to have puzzles do they not and alters with similar characteristics?” Saar-Raas spoke up with a aloud thought and questions. “Should be.... interesting to see what the elves of old have laying in wait for us.” the Qunari added before turning his back and once again facing the group with a soft shrug of his shoulders and folding his arms before his chest.

_____________\_______\_______\________
Meanwhile back at Skyhold after deciding his son must be elsewhere on the hold grounds or perhaps was yet amongst the arrivals. Deciding enough time was spent in remembrance outside the castle itself, Zeddicus moved on from the well and looking about the outdoors, turning away and heading for the stairs with a look of stoic and narrowed brow as the veteran warrior pushed open the large doors upon climbing the steps of the hold. Honesty he wasn’t sure who had arrived yet or even who all would bother to come, but what he was sure of that no matter what lay ahead, he couldn’t stay outside forever in a day remembering every face he once knew and fought alongside even if part of him wouldn’t mind, memories were a treasure in themselves.

Pushing open the doors to Skyhold castle and eyes setting upon the main hall, gazing upon a once lively and bustling atmosphere with occasional holdings of courts and parties. Zeddicus shook his head dismissing old questions, accepting his lack of familiarity in some regards as he often stayed outside of the main hall and castle altogether as much as possible, he’d leave politics to the main party of the inquisition and those in charge back in the old days, he had enough of political bull-shite back home in fereldan, he’d not enter into international interests and politics unless he’d really have to while part of the inquisition.

“Someone’s here.... Perhaps the maids and small staff left behind?” The man thought to himself and walked along the path towards the throne of the inquisitor and great windows that rested behind it. Mind thinking about all the pieces and designs that each one brought and derived from

 

[BrandedAFreak]

A chuckle came from Rin as she winked back at Godet. She rather liked their fearless leader: she had a good head on her shoulders and besides, she was kinda cute. Then again, the Dalish rogue tended to find anyone of the dwarven variety 'cute'. Or, in the case of Balinor, rugged. Rough around the edges. She gave a small shrug at her own thoughts as she set to work on fixing her hair, trying to take the mass of fluffy curls into something that didn't resemble a bird's nest. Her attention was fixated, however, on their leader. “Some of us are still whelps,” Rin offered at Godet's comment of being mercenaries, a cheeky grin on her face. She couldn't help it, though. She was still...okay, so she wasn't brand new to this whole thing, but she was still wet behind the ears, if she were to believe what Tobrin told her.

Matt's offer to scout with her was met with a bright smile. He was a good second set of eyes and his mabari was as good as any when it came to hunting. She had a soft spot for the two hounds in their camp and tended to spoil them. Sometimes with permission and sometimes without their companion knowing. Shifting her attention to Godet, she listened to the orders given, flexing her fingers slightly at the thought of there- maybe- being trouble waiting for them. Without even realizing it, she was glancing towards her father to see his reaction to the news.

Not that she would see much reaction from him: his attention had turned to Godet as well, though there was a faint scowl crossing his face. He had heard Matt's comment about the place and was glad to know that he wasn't the only one that was unnerved with this place. Ruins were bad enough, with traps and who knew what else, but Elvhen ruins could be worse. There were very few that could still understand Elvhen writing and even fewer that would brave whatever traps their ancestors laid out. He was a brave sort, but his understanding of Elvhen writing was- at best- mediocre. And that's only if he could 'see' it. If not, they would have to rely on the others to attempt translating.

Which could be worse.

Rubbing his eyes, he was on the verge of wandering away from the camp when a bowl of porridge was thrust into his hands. “Eat.” The order was simple enough- from his daughter, no less- and he found himself eating slowly, his mind on what they were about to head into. His thoughts, however, were interrupted by the musings of the Qunari of their group. For a moment, he turned his attention to the giant before speaking in a loud enough voice for the others to hear, “Puzzles, traps. We will have to be careful. Vigilant.” He seemed to hesitate, as if he didn't want to go over Godet's head and issue orders, but he continued on, in a firmer tone of voice, “Do not let your guard down. If something does not feel right, pay attention. Let everyone know what you are feeling. It is best to be...overly careful in places like this.”

A scowl crossed his face as he reached up to trace one finger along the scar on his cheek before he finished his bowl. “And for the love of Mythal, or Andraste, or the Ancestors...do NOT let Rin try to translate anything.”

"Rude!"

 

[ThatGuyWithSouvlaki]

Godet smirked at her teams reaction to her speech and the banter between them, they were a great band of misfits she had here. She hoped she truly had what it took to lead them correctly. Her confidence on that ebbed and flowed day to day, some days she felt she was doing right others she second guessed herself. Looked like this was going to be the former for now. "Thank you for your input Saar and Matt. Like i was tried to say. Be careful."

She thought for a moment. "We take half hour for lunch and preparation, Rin and Tobrin since you offered you will go and scout out ahead. Do not enter until the rest of us to arrive. That's it for now. Now to the important matter at hand, filling our bellies." She finally said walking from her spot and taking her breakfast. She went to sit down before realizing something. "Balinor!" She called out. "Are you going to grace us with your presence in this exploration or you are going to stay at your forge "guarding the base" i would call it!"

 

[Terrier B]

The Hand’s had been informed by a definitely reliable informant, that the planned temple set to be raided that day, had once been an old shrine, dedicated to the lost Guardians of the old Emerald Knights. And through aesthetic alone, this seemed perfectly feasible. For not much remained of the actual structural integrity of any building that may have once stood there. A few broken and crumbling pillars lay scattered about the place. But the statues on the other hand, were many in number. Countless stone wolves dwelt within that old dusty ruin. Some lay sleeping, others sat contently, and a few were even immortalised in a constant watch, hovering mid-stride as they kept guard over their long lost territory. The Graves itself were seemingly the only encroaching enemy the stone Wolves had to contend with. Vines, branches and all manner of general shrubbery had made its approach upon the temple. It a regard, it made the place more tranquil, but perhaps not in the most conventional sense. When within the ruins of the shrine, a feeling of dull drowsiness shrouded the very air. Limbs felt heavy and slow, and even thinking seemed to be a cumbersome endeavour. It was as if the Graves was trying to hide something in its takeover of the place. What exactly however remained unclear...

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Tabot chuckled at Sene's comment, a rare motion that had almost become forgotten to him in the last few weeks. He lifted a hand and through a small lingering smile said, "My apologies. I was but a single parent to that group of dangerous toddlers. Academically speaking, of course..." He leaned back into his seat and sighed, a hand reached up to his face and rubbed at the untidy scruff beginning to grow there.

"It may sound a tad ominous, but I had sensed something, as of late. And I have good reason to believe it truly means something for once. Something bad."

His eyes drifted to the window vaguely. One of the few guards remaining was walking from the Gate tower back to his traditional watch post. Someone else must have arrived. Not yet returning his gaze to the Elf, he asked, "Tell me, do you remember the bald one, who spent all that time in the Rotunda? Weird necklace, odd choice of fashion?"

 

[BrandedAFreak]

Though he had warned the others and advised them to speak up if they felt something was off, Tobrin didn't take his own advice. However much this place unsettled him, he didn't voice his concerns, sure that he was either imagining it or that there was some reasonable explanation that went into why he was feeling so...off. He had traveled through the Graves before, in earlier years, but it had always been through, rather than lingering for a time. Of course, that had also been before: before the Blight, before the conclave, before the Breath.

Before the world turned upside down and they were all left scrambling.

Godet's orders were clear: scout the ruins but do not enter them before the others arrived. Simple enough and the father/daughter pair we good at following orders. After they had put everything to order- at least for them- they set off: Rinaya with her bow and a quiver of arrows strapped to her back, Tobrin with his staff in hand and a dagger at the ready. The pair moved quietly towards their destination, the usual banter between them silenced for the time being.

There wasn't much to the temple any longer: pillars that had once stood tall and crumbling stone that was fighting a loosing battle with nature. What had once been a shrine, a place dedicated to the Guardians of the Emerald Knights, were now just ruins. It saddened Rin to see her people's history crumbling away. Shaking her head, she glanced around, her eyes sighting the statues of the Guardians themselves: wolves at the ready or resting. For a moment, she felt as if they were just waiting for a touch of magic to bring them back to life. As much as she loved animals, though, the thought wasn't comforting.

Nor was the feeling that came over her: a sense of unease that she couldn't quite shake off. Flexing her fingers, she glanced around again, as if expecting to see someone watching them. Save for Tobrin at her side and the wolf statues watching them, there wasn't anything around.

“There is...something,” Tobrin muttered under his breath, a scowl starting to form. Shaking his head, he made a gesture for Rin to follow him as he skirted around what should have been the outer part of the temple. The wolf statues didn't seem to bother him- not that he could see them- but there was something else that bothered him about this place. That feeling of unease from earlier was magnified, as if this place were at the center of it all.

“Magic?” Though Rin could sense when there was a lot of magic in the air, she couldn't feel it now. It was something else that lingered there, making her twitchy and wanting to keep her bow at the ready.

“...something.” And that irritated the elder mage all the more, that he couldn't put into words exactly what he was feeling. Instead, he grabbed Rin by the wrist and pulled her away with him. Some distance between himself and the temple was good, but they couldn't forget why they were there. “No traps that I can tell...and there doesn't seem to be anyone else around.” Still, a warning to Godet when she and the others arrived wouldn't be amiss. “Circle the temple and make sure there isn't anything else around. I sense no magical wards- from here- so we should be safe in that regard.”

“On it.” The younger elf reached out to squeeze her father's hand before she slipped away, leaving him to wait by himself. She didn't feel bad for leaving him behind. On the contrary, she felt bad for whomever was foolish enough to come after him.