Unbound

Disclaimer: I own nothing.

Author's Note: Surprise, surprise, I'm back once more. If you didn't understand the last chapter of my other story "Another Chance to Live", then I was alluding to a sequel to Another Chance to Live and here it is. I hope you enjoy it.

"Talking"

Thoughts

I was floating in darkness comfortable, weightless, and perfectly at peace. Then I felt it. Pain. Pain that had settled down to my bones. With great effort my eyes creaked opened and I was looking at a blue sky.

I'm alive? Where am I?

Painfully I lifted my head up and out of the hay that filled the cart I appeared to be in and saw a young girl with blonde hair with her back toward me.

"He…ey." I called out hoarsely only for the sounds of the wagon to drone out my voice.

Instead of trying again I laid my head back down and without meaning to fell back asleep. I don't know how much time had passed but I suddenly found myself near a small campfire. The blonde hair girl was facing toward me but her eyes were focused on a small mortar and pestle set. After working on grinding whatever was inside the mortar she came closer and I realized that it was Amethyne, Iona's daughter.

"You are awake." She said as she approached and knelt next to me.

"Where are we?" I rasped out.

"Somewhere between Amaranthine and Highever. Do you remember what happened?" Amethyne asked softly.

"No-I-wait." I paused as the memories began to come back.

Images of the Battle of Denerim, the Archdemon, the wounds I had sustained and finally the fall. I looked down at the stump just below the bottom of my left elbow. To my surprised it was no longer jagged and was sewed half way decently.

"I had to trade the wagon and horse to fix you up. You've had a fever for the last few days. It broke this afternoon." Amethyne explained as she gently spread an ointment from the mortar over the wound.

"I fell." I said tiredly.

"Yes you did. You must have all the luck in the world to fall into a wagon full of hay just as I was passing Fort Drakon in full haste out of the city. Well it wasn't me. I was with the old Nan of Arl Eamon's estate. She caught a stray arrow just before we managed to escape. She didn't make it." Amethyne said sadly sounding far more adult than a child.

"I'm sorry." I offered and Amethyne only nodded before she lifted my shirt and spread whatever was left of the ointment over my stomach wound.

"She was nice to me. Protected me when the darkspawn came. I would be dead if not for her." Amethyne said gratefully.

"A good woman then." I said trying to keep my eyes open.

"The best. She protected me even before the darkspawn. She made sure that nobody hit me or treated me badly like the other elves." Amethyne said.

"Orzammar." I whispered as my eyes closed.

"What?" Amethyne asked confused but her voice sounded so far away.

"We have to go to Orzammar." I murmured before sleep claimed me once more.

******Two Weeks Later******

I was strong enough to walk without help and I thanked my natural constitution for that as Amethyne and I walked down the steps onto the floor of the throne room. Upon the single throne was the dwarven queen Dorn Aeducan who was looking more annoyed the longer the two Deshyrs argued in front of her.

"Enough! Falmag you will hand over enough Nugs to pay for the damages caused to Dargcal. No more and no less. That is my order and decree. Now leave." Dorn said icily and both Deshyrs bowed and exited before they faced the wrath of their Queen.

"Enjoying the seat of power?" I asked smugly and watched as Dorn seemed to become the girl I always knew she was instead of the powerful matriarch that had steadily been improving relations within her own societal problems and the surface.

"Oh Art, you are a balm to my soul and a sight for sore eyes. They have a title for you now. One that even Kal-Sharok has heard. The Hero of Fereldan. Although they don't know you're still alive. I wonder why that is?" Dorn asked suspiciously.

"Just wanted to enjoy being me. I'm not one for attention." I said casually.

"I can understand that sentiment and your secret will be safe with me. Why are you here and who is the little one?" Dorn said as she stretch once more comfortably on her stone throne.

"I'm not little." Amethyne protested childishly.

"Hush Amethyne. You are." I said with a smirk and watched as she crossed her arms before looking back at Dorn.

"I have need of your impressive mind and your beautiful hands." I said confidently causing Dorn to let out a bark of laughter before leaning her head on a propped up hand.

"Always the charmer Art. Still, I suppose I still owe you. You know, for putting me on the throne and stopping my miserable brother from destroying what's left of the great Dwarven Kingdoms. So why do you need me?" Dorn asked only to straighten up as I raised my left arm out of the shadow of my travelling cloak.

"Since our last meeting I've been put at a disadvantage. I believe you can help me." I said looking from my arm to her.

"So who managed to hurt you so badly?" Dorn said calmly but I could see the fury behind her eyes.

"No one special. Just an Archdemon." I said before pulling my arm back into my cloak.

"Only you would could make such an accomplishment a trivial event." Dorn said leaning back in her throne once more taking on the visage of a bored youth although a hint of concern replaced the fury.

"Well, I am Art Cousland and you will find no one else like me in the entirety of this world." I smirked at her.

"I don't doubt that." Dorn said mirroring my smirk on her lips.

"I could make a prosthetic for your arm. Just a hunk of metal but it'll act as a shield at least." Dorn said as she pulled a hammer from the side of her throne.

"That's not really what I was looking for. Instead I have something else in mind. Tell me, how much would you pay to make every soldier capable of fighting even after losing a limb or two?" I said mischievously.

"Oh, I would pay quite a handsome amount for that knowledge. Although that is big talk from someone who can barely hold a hammer." Dorn jabbed.

"One time, now do you want to know what I know or not?" I asked.

"Yes." Dorn said with a hungry look in her eye.

*****Present Day*****

I woke up with a gasp and jolted into a sitting position as I felt my heart racing as I struggled to catch my breath.

I haven't had that dream in years.

I brought my left hand up and watched as the metallic hand opened and closed at my command.

With Dorn's help I managed to bring this much technology into this world. I wonder how she is doing. I'll send an extra shipment of treats to her.

With a sigh I fell back against my bed and tried my best to fall back asleep. I closed my eyes and waited for sleep to overtake me. Unfortunately, I found no relief and with an annoyed grunt got out of bed and paced over to the balcony. With little flourish I opened the balcony doors and greeted the briskly cold air with a sigh.

I walked toward the edge of the balcony and overlooked the small city. My city. Built directly into the southern mountain side of the Frostback Mountains nestled comfortably in the Uncharted Territory.

A point I've made to the numerous ambassadors from Orlais and a token ambassador from Fereldan. Allistar and Leliana were so angry. Although they simmered down when I mentioned the amount of Ale Allistar had owed me.

I chuckled slightly at the thought and watched as the night guards maintained their patrol. The small settlement had grown into a medium sized city within the last five years. People were free to worship their gods no matter who they may be, free speech while a new concept quickly became adopted by the populous. There were no slaves in the city and any slaves who reached us was immediately set free.

The Tevinter Ambassador was quite shocked with that. Although they did take care to send Ambassadors with no slaves with them. War was threatened but I quickly brought up that fighting a war on two sides, so far away from their own home, and a war especially with us was against their best interests.

I used my knowledge to the utmost in the last ten years and quickly built up our economy, infrastructure, and military might. We produced "magical" cures that once injected into the body reduced the chance of infection, inflammation, and fevers, making it a highly sought out product from Fereldan, The Qun, Orlais, The Free Marshes, and even the Tevinter. The revenue from that alone has almost single handedly funded our city. Our defenses consisting of walls carved out of the mountain itself were formidable and tall but it was our soldiers that most nations truly feared. I had trained the Original five elven children into fine generals each one capable and competent and not to mention martially unequalled. Each one answered to Amethyne, the leader of our forces that numbered slightly over ten thousand with over twice that in reservs. Each soldier was given the best training and best weaponry which now had started to include firearms. Single shot weapons before reloading but still highly accurate and incredibly deadly. I was preparing plans to bring more advancements into the world but I figured that would be enough for any army coming our way for the next three hundred years.

Suddenly the doors to my chambers opened and a stoic Amethyne came to a halt just in front of me before bowing. I took in her appearance and was proud. Amethyne had not only met my expectations but exceeded them. She was the best commander we had and had proven her mettle in more than a few battles with local tribes, and Orlesian forces that had sought to capture our city. She had also become a beautiful young women in her prime and was already besieged by marriage propositions from a multitude of suitors.

"What is it Amethyne?" I asked concerned at the sudden entrance.

"My lord, we have reports of a plot that will take place during the meeting at the Temple of Sacred Ashes!" Amethyne said before a loud explosion rocked the night air and a large explosion happened in the distance.

We watched with surprise as the sky above the explosion ripped open with green ethereal light. The hole became bigger leaving cracks that grew larger and larger.

"Wha-what's happening?" Amethyne asked breathlessly.

"Some fool has broken the veil." I said angrily but gasped in pain as a sudden rush of Fade Essence engulfed me and I screamed as I fell onto my knees.

"Art!" Amethyne rushed to my side but with as much control as I could muster pushed her away.

What is this?! It must be because I am sensitive to the Fade. I'm absorbing too much. My body feels like it's going to burst. I have to use it.

With that thought I focused my will which flexed and brought into existence a heavy duty T-60 power armor. I still had too much Fade Essence and focused on bringing a Pip-Boy onto my armored arm. The constant drain of energy that flowed into keeping the two items in this plain of existence helped to stabilize the influx of Fade Essence and the pain faded.

"So that is the power you hold." Amethyne said in wonder as I turned toward her.

"Yes. Gather up the Generals. I will meet you in the throne room within the hour." I said, my voice slightly altered, caused Amethyne to hesitate before nodding and leaving the room.

I looked down at myself and at my pip-boy before sighing.

*****An Hour Later*****

In front of me stood the five elven generals. Each of them held their own specialties but none could deny their worth. Each looked at my new set of armor before saluting as Amethyne walked into the room.

"Now that we are all assembled I'm sure each of you have your concerns about the recent turn of events. Jete, how are the citizens?" I asked and a fully armored figured bowed.

"Frightened would be an understatement, but the local guard and my soldiers have seen to it that they are placated and nobody takes advantage of the chaos." Jete bowed before stepping back.

"Are there any injuries Mithternas?" I inquired.

"Nothing serious and nothing we cannot handle." Mithternas said quietly.

In that order we proceeded and after getting all their reports I was happy that the city was very well taken care of despite the sudden explosion and the ensuing panic. Which led me to the final matter at hand.

"You have all done a fine job and are to be commended. Now, because of the state of this emergency I believe I have the most knowledge on what has happened. Therefore, I will leave the city in the hands of the generals and at their head Amethyne, while I investigate the cause of this incident." I said and was met with silence before an elf taller than any of the others present stepped forward.

"Do you think that is wise sir?" The familiar voice of Dathenal asked worriedly.

"I have trust that each of you will uphold the peace and protect this city and I have trust that Amethyne will be a just and fair ruler while I am gone. Are you suggesting that I should have reason to think otherwise?" I asked with a warning tone in my voice.

"Sir, no sir!" They all barked out in unison.

"Good. Tomorrow I leave in the morning." I stated and with a hand gesture dismissed them with only Amethyne who stayed.

"Will you be leaving without an escort?" Amethyne asked cautiously.

"Yes. The power I have…at the moment I can keep it at bay, but the longer the tear stays open the more power I absorb. If I do not put a stop to the tear in the Veil I could very well destroy what we have built. These people depend on me. I will not see them killed because I did nothing. In any case the farther I am away from here the safer it will be." I finished and stood up.

"When the world falls, we will rise. No matter what happens, Holme, will be here when you return and should you ever need us we will be at your back against any danger." Amethyne promised placing a hand on her brow before bringing it to her chest.

With that she turned on her heel and exited the throne room. After a few seconds I chuckled and sighed.

"Where does that girl get her theatrics from?" I asked aloud with only silence to greet me.

*****Two Days Later******

The trip from Holme to what remained of the temple had barely taken two days thanks to the Power Armor. With it I could trudge through the snow with no problems and because it had a hydro system installed I never had to exit the suit to drink, although I did have to forgo eating and sleep to make the time I did. As I approached, the sounds of combat became more apparent with no pause I quickly summoned a combat shotgun and began to jog through the snow. As I crested a hill top I saw a large rift floating in mid-air. Below me were an old couple, a bald elf mage leaned heavily against his staff and next to him sat a male dwarf dressed for warmer weather loading an odd looking crossbow. Without warning the Rift flared and the dwarf sighed.

"Looks like there will be another wave." The rough voice of the dwarf said wearily as he stood up.

"Indeed." The elf said in annoyance.

"How long do you think we can hold?" The dwarf asked.

"Long enough. Or have the dwarven people become weaker since my isolation?" The elf asked in jest.

"Careful Solas, any other dwarf would have cut you down for that." The dwarf chuckled.

"I would like to see them try Varric." Solas said with a grim smile as the Rift opened significantly and sent out a burst of energy into the area.

I groaned in pain as I felt the energy absorb through my armor and into me. I felt like my whole body was aflame and I looked down at my combat shotgun and realized I would have to bring something bigger into this world to elevate the sudden influx of Fade Essence. With a mere thought my combat shotgun was banished and in its place was a minigun and I quickly began to spool the barrels in anticipation as green tendrils exploded from the Rift and impacted the ground. A few seconds later twenty Shade Demon's appeared and roared in agony at sudden existence.

"What's that sound?" Solas as both he and Varric looked around for the sound of my primed minigun.

Beneath my helmet I smiled and pulled the secondary trigger and suddenly the air was filled with a stream of metal as I strafed the entire mob of demons. The bullets did their job and within twenty seconds the only thing left was mulched Shade Demons and after a second even that too dissolved back into green wisps of energy before being reabsorbed through the Rift. I turned my attention onto the dwarf and elf and saw a look of fear and confusion as they stared at me. With a slight heave I jumped over the lip of the hill and slid down the rest of the way before coming to stop at the base. I turned toward them and closed whatever space remained between and stopped five feet away.

I must have looked a sight. A heavily armored solider towering at the height of a Qunari with a large deadly weapon that was still glowing red hot while hissing and steaming as snow landed on the barrels. In that moment I could only ask one thing.

"What are you looking at Locals?" I asked with a grin and I could almost remember the first time I had seen a powered armor soldier in action.

"Wha-what are you?" Varric asked dumbstruck.

*****A Few Hours Later*****

My heart thumped against my ribs and I felt myself grip the hilt of my newly acquired greatsword as I rushed upward along the path toward what I could see was an active rift. As Cassandra and I approached we were greeted to an unusual sight. Sitting on a broken pillar was a large armored figure and a dwarf, between them laid a board with multiple pieces and looking over them stood an elf with a thoughtful expression on his face.

"So I can move this here?" The dwarf asked as he placed a horse shaped piece diagonally across the board.

"No, no, no. It moves in an L shape. Only the bishop can move diagonally. Come on Varric I've been telling you that for the last hour." Said the armored figure in a voice that held a slightly metallic tinge to it.

"I believe you should move it here." The elf said as he made to touch one of the pieces only to have the armored figure grab his hand in a surprisingly deft motion.

"Enough Solas. You have to let him figure out his own path. Besides, I would have him in three moves if he moved there." The armored figure scolded and Solas nodded begrudgingly and pulled his hand back.

"There!" Varric shouted as he moved one of the smaller pieces forward triumphantly.

"Checkmate." The armored figure picked up a miniature castle and moved it in front of a male figure.

"What?!" Varric exclaimed as he ran both hands through his hair.

"What is going on here!?" Cassandra yelled out as she stepped closer to the group.

"We're having a friendly match, miss?..." The armored helm turned toward us and the alien looking face was slightly disconcerting although it seemed to have no effect on Cassandra as she stomped toward them.

"Seeker Cassandra Pentaghast! Who are you!?" She once again demanded.

"All fire and brimstone huh?" The armored figure turned back toward Varric as he chuckled.

"Buddy, you don't know the half of it." Varric said with a roughish smile completely missing the Rift only a feet away begin to glow.

"Watch out!" I cried out which seemed to catch everyone's attention as they looked toward the Rift which began to pulsate and immediately I felt a spike of pain as the mark on my hand glowed brighter.

"You might want to cover your ears for this." Varric warned as he took his own warning to heart and covered his ears.

The armored figure stood up and picked up a large metal object that had been stowed on the other side of the pillar. Solas immediately jumped over the pillar and covered his ears. With a loud clap that resembled thunder the Rift exploded in energy and set green tendrils of energy out of it. After a brief pause Shade demons, and spirits were pulled through the veil.

"Get out of the way!" Cassandra screamed as she rushed forward only to be sent flying back as the armored figure elbowed her in the chest.

I watched as the tip of the metal object began to spin with a whir. Suddenly it sounded like multiple thunder claps going off one after the other which caused me to cover my ears from the terrifying noise. My eyes widened in awe as I saw the damage this mysterious stranger's weapon was causing. The shades were torn apart and the spirits were quickly put down with extreme prejudice. One shade managed to close the distance but without hesitation the stranger shoved his weapon into the Shade's face and knocked it onto the ground. With no mercy the stranger shoved the red hot tip of his weapon into the Shade's face causing it to groan in pain as it vainly tried to push it away. At an unseen signal the stranger's weapon began to spin again and once more the sound of thunder filled the air as whatever made up the Shade's face was quickly torn apart.

"What was that?" Cassandra gasped out as she limped back from the snow bank she had landed in.

"That my dear Seeker is Art Cousland. Former Grey Warden Commander, Hero of Fereldan, and apparently not dead." Varric said in a voice that was a shade away from respect.

At the mention of the name I felt myself gasp as memories flooded my mind. I remembered when I was ten in a small village of Lothering. My eyes were red from crying and I felt a gnawing pang of hunger. My family had been robbed and no one took pity on us or offered to help, but then a strange band of humans came with a Mabari hound. The leader, helped us. He gave us back our things, even my stuffed Halla and my father always told me that he was responsible for our good fortune and the funds to cross the Waking Sea and eventually into the wilds above the Free Marshes where we were taken in by a Dalish Clan, Clan Levallen.

I wonder if he remembers me.

To my surprise the elven man, Solas, rushed over to me and grabbed my marked hand.

"Quickly! Before more show up." He shouted as he raised my arm toward the Rift.

Unbidden a green tendril of energy tethered the Rift to my Mark.

"Focus on closing it." Solas urged me and I closed my eyes and concentrated.

Within a few seconds I felt the Rift give way and with a clap sealed and faded from existence. I opened my eyes and saw the Mark on my hand return to a dull glow.

"So I can help." I whispered.

"Yes, it seems the Mark is the only way to fix this." Cassandra said.

"Yes, I hypothesized as much." Solas said as he leaned against his staff.

"Who are you?" I asked.

"I am an apostate familiar with arts not covered by the circle, at least when there was one. I kept the mark from killing you in your sleep." Solas said calmly with a smile.

"Thank you." I bowed slightly much to his surprise but he quickly recovered and bowed himself.

"I should be thanking you. If it hadn't been for you there would have been no end to the demons and without Art Cousland's help we would have been overwhelmed." Solas explained.

"True enough." Varric agreed as he pulled out his crossbow and inspected it.

"Interesting crossbow." I commented and Varric smiled.

"Like it? I call her Bianca." Varric said proudly before holstering it on his back.

The stranger, Art, turned toward us and attached his weapon onto a metal hook that hung from his waist. The weight didn't seem to bother him as he approached us.

"Sorry Seeker Pentaghast for my rough handling. I didn't want you to get in front of me." Art said apologetically.

"No, I believe you saved me from my own actions." Cassandra said with a sigh as she seemed to recover and stood up straight.

"Why are you here Cousland?" Cassandra asked.

"Same as everyone else is I suppose." Art said and gestured at the giant green hole in the sky.

"I see. While the proper protocol would be to take you into custody I believe the situation is more than enough to excuse protocol; especially if you have intentions on helping us." Cassandra stated and Art chuckled.

"Flexible and tough. Seeker Pentaghast we will get along just fine." Art said before turning toward me.

"You look familiar." Art said as he took a seemingly large step toward me and I found myself looking upward.

"Elf. Female. Hair, the shade of dried grass about to catch fire. Freckles. Distinct green eyes. Skin the color of fresh milk. Lithe frame." He intoned as he took in my features and I felt like an animal being inspected.

"Allynna." He breathed out and I felt something jolt throughout my body and all I could do was nod.

"I remember you back in Lothering. It's a strange turn of events that have brought us back together." A tone of amusement was somewhere in his voice.

"Ye-ye-yes." I managed to stutter out causing Varric to laugh, Solas to raise a thin eyebrow and Cassandra to sigh.

"Well I'm sure there's a story there but let's save that for a safer time shall we?" Art said.

"Yes, we must reach the summit. Leliana, and what remains of our forces are there stationed there." Cassandra stated in the usual tone of a soldier.

"Ah! Well this will be an occasion. Queen Leliana herself. Let's go." Art said as he turned toward the path to the summit.

"Thank you!" I shouted out and I could already feel my cheeks heat up in a furious blush as Art turned toward me and although his metal helm obscured his face I could just imagine something of a grin on his face.

"For what?" He asked.

"For saving my family. Without you…we would have died." I said before swallowing a lump in my throat.

"Don't you know?" Art asked as he tilted his head.

"Know what?" I asked.

"That's what heroes do." Was his short answer as he turned his back on us and began to walk up the path.

"Maker, you sound like something out of a story book." Cassandra stated causing Art to pause.

"You know I get that a lot." He said as he lifted his strange weapon from his hip and readied it as a few Spirits appeared to be floating down the path.

"Cover your ears!" Varric yelled as a familiar whirring filled the air.

*****An Hour Later*****

I felt sweat on my brow as I fought for control over the Rift. With a grunt of frustration I clenched my fist and with a yelled pulled my arm back as the Rift pulled shut. Immediately I fell to my knees in exhaustion and gasped for air. The Rifts were stronger the closer we got to the large crack in the sky.

"Come on." I heard Art's metallic voice say and with a firm grip on my arm pulled me onto my feet.

"I don't know if I can do this." I whispered.

"Doesn't matter. You have to." Art said as he pushed me forward toward the now open gate.

With a tired sigh I walked forward along the bridge where Cassandra, Varric, Solas, and a familiar red head were arguing with a surly man.

"Ah here she comes!" The man dressed in chantry clothing said in contempt as he looked me up and down.

"You made it. Chancellor Rodrick, this is the one with the Mark." Leliana said and although Rodrick looked like he wanted to interrupt he wisely bit his tongue.

"I know who she is Queen Leliana." Rodrick said as he looked at me once more.

"As Grand Chancellor of the Chantry, I order you to take this woman into custody, where she will face judgement in Val Royeaux." Chancellor Rodrick ordered only for Cassandra to scoff.

"Order me? You are a glorified clerk! A bureaucrat!" Cassandra shouted in contempt.

"And you are a thug. A glorified thug that is supposed to serve the Chantry!" Rodrick shouted back.

"She serves the Most Holy, Chancellor. As you well know." Queen Leliana swiftly reminded him and Rodrick raised his hands in defense.

"Justinia is dead! We must elect her replacement and obey her orders in this matter." Rodrick proclaimed.

"So no one's in charge here?" I questioned.

"Because you killed them all." Rodrick screamed out and suddenly he deflated as if he spent all his anger.

"Call a retreat Seeker. Our position here…is hopeless." Rodrick pleaded and it suddenly became apparent to me how close this man was to giving up everything.

"We can stop all of this before it's too late." Cassandra said as she stepped forward.

"How? You won't survive long enough to get to the top of the mountain, even with all your soldiers." Rodrick said hopelessly.

"We must get to the temple. It's the quickest route." Cassandra said as she pointed to a marking on the map.

"It's not the safest. Our forces can charge as a distraction while we go through the mountain." Queen Leliana suggested raising a gloved hand at the peak where a large temple stood.

"We lost contact with a squad up there. It is too risky." Cassandra disagreed.

"Listen to me, abandon this now before more lives are lost." Rodrick pleaded before something akin to the ground itself moving was heard and a rumble shook the bridge we stood on.

I felt pain shoot up my hand and I grabbed it resisting the urge to scream as it glowed brighter distracting the others from the widening hole in the sky.

"How do you think we should proceed?" Cassandra asked.

"You're asking me?" I exclaimed in surprise.

"You have the mark." Solas said.

"And you are the one we must keep alive. Since we cannot agree on our own it falls to you." Cassandra said with what seemed like a little regret.

"We'll use the mountain path." I said after careful consideration.

"A wise choice all things considering." Art's metallic voice rang throughout the air and we all looked surprised that he managed to sneak up on us even with the heavy armor.

"I know one fool who would walk around in such a contraption." Queen Leliana said with a smile.

"It is good to see you again as well. Tell me, what is one of the most important people in Fereldan doing so far from home and in so dangerous an area? I mean if I was a woman who was in a relationship with a man who would wage all-out-war for her I would try to be more careful on where I go." Art said in a disapproving tone and much to our shock Queen Leliana took on the mannerisms of a scolded girl.

"Well you see, wait! Story later. Action now. Go do your thing." Queen Leliana ordered as she reestablished her role as Queen.

"Very well, since you all will be taking the mountain path. I will provide a distraction and pull as many demons to me as possible." Art said.

"What does that entail?" Varric asked curiously.

"Shhhh…leave me to my fun. Run along now kids. I have some planning to do." Art said as he stomped forward ahead of us.

"Who was that?" Rodrick said disbelievingly.

"Besides the girl, probably our best hope if all else fails." Leliana sighed and although we didn't voice it we all, to varying degrees, agreed.

*****Two Hours Later*****

"Well that was fun." I commented as I looked at the carnage I had left in my wake. Hundreds of dead demons, spirits, and abominations littered the path.

Within seconds however, their bodies dissolved into green light and disappeared in the air. I turned back to what remained of the Temple of Sacred Ashes and was reminded of my own visit to this temple ten years ago. I was younger then with all my limbs in place. I pressed a palm against the soot covered walls and sighed.

Look what time has done to us both.

Whatever thoughts I had were interrupted as pain once more wracked my body and a loud snap of a Rift opening filled the air. I forced myself to ignore the pain and begin to climb the rubble to where I heard sounds of a battle was raging. As I reached the top I saw below me a large Pride Demon battling against Cassandra, Allynna, Varric and Solas, and whatever forces had managed to stay alive in the area. Almost every second, a Shade or Rage demon would form. Some were cut down with arrows but there were too many. I heard a scream and with my helmet I zoomed in to see Allynna on the ground as volts of electricity ran through her body via the lighting whip the Pride demon was holding. Without thinking I materialized a missile launcher and targeted the Pride demon.

"Smile now bitch." I pulled the trigger and watched as the payload flew and slammed directly into the back of the Pride Demon's head.

The ensuing explosion surprised even the demons as everyone watched as the now headless Pride Demon fell limply to its knees before falling to the ground on its side. Taking advantage of the surprise attack I had dismissed the launcher and materialized twin 10mm submachine guns, with drum barrel magazines carrying 100 rounds each, and was among them before anyone or anything could recover.

I was a blur of motions as I weaved in and out of the demons all the while using my guns to devastating effect. Whatever got in my way was shredded or mulched in an efficient manner. Within a minute only one Shade Demon was left. If a Shade demon could know fear this one was the closest to becoming a Fear demon while in the real world. I pointed the two submachine guns at its face and pulled the trigger. Instead of a resounding bang there was a dry click.

With a roar of delight the Shade demon advanced confident now in its assured victory. I tossed the guns down but before they touched the ground they disappeared in a mist of green mist. The shade threw a clawed hand toward me which I caught and despite the incredible strength of the demon I held it solidly much to the surprise of everyone around me and the demon itself. It tried to pull back in panic but I yanked it forward and threw a punch forward. The sudden contact made the duel sound of metal clanging and the crunching of flesh. As it staggered backward I pulled it forward again and this time slammed my helmet into its face which brought it to its knees. As it looked up at me with one glowing ethereal eye I shoved my armored knee directly into its face crushing whatever remained of its skull. I pushed the demon off my knee and it crumpled to the ground.

I heard a yell and despite my own performance I admired Allynna as she had recovered enough to activate her mark. An enormous amount of energy passed between her and the Rift and already weakened Allynna felt to one knee as she grasped her hand in obvious effort. Her pained expression quickly changed into one of resolve as she roared and stood on both feet. Slowly she pulled back and the Rift began to close slowly. After an eternity both Rift and Elf seemed to yell at each other as Allynna pulled with a mighty effort and shut it close. The resounding energy slammed straight into the crack in the sky and to all of our amazement the crack in the sky sealed over and no longer spat out its pain at the world. There was still a green ethereal scar over the sky but for now the constant rain of demons had ended much to the joy of the surviving soldiers, who cheered for their success.

I alone watched as Allynna collapsed. I made my way hurriedly toward her prone figure and quickly inspected her. The Pride Demon's lightning whip had done more damage than I had thought. Still it was fixable but she would have a large scar. Without a word I pulled a syringe out of one of the armored pockets and jammed it into her arm. With a quick depression on the plunger the pained expression on her face faded and she only moaned once in pain as I picked her up in my arms. The whole area was silent as I carried her out of the Ruins of the Temple.

*****Three Days Later*****

I breathed in deeply and enjoyed the feeling as my eyes fluttered opened. I saw above me a wooden ceiling and smelt smoke and warmth from a nearby fire. With a groan and protest from my body I pushed myself into a seated position and suddenly heard a loud crash.

"OH!" A feminine voice uttered and I turned to see female elf looking at me in shock.

"I didn't know you were awake. I swear!" She said in a frightened tone as she ran her hands nervously together.

"It's alright." I found myself speaking and was surprised as the elf fell to her knees and bowed lowly against the floor.

"I beg your forgiveness as well as your blessing. I am but a humble servant." The elven woman's voice trembled as she spoke but as she looked up, there was awe in her eyes.

"You are back at Haven, my lady. They say you saved us. The Breach stopped growing just like the mark on your hand." The elf explained and quickly I looked at my left hand and saw that although every now and then it would crackle with energy I felt no pain.

"It's all anyone has talked about for the last three days." The elf added.

"Then the danger is over." I sighed out in relief.

"The Breach is still in the sky my lady, but yes that is what they say." The elf servant said as she got to her feet.

"I'm certain Lady Cassandra will want to know you've wakened. She said, at once." The elf said as she took a few nervous steps toward the door.

"And where is she?" I asked.

"In the chantry with the Lord Chancellor. At once she said." And with that the elf ran off and slammed the door shut behind her.

"What have I gotten myself into?" I asked, once more voicing aloud the thought I had screaming in my head since I woke up in a dungeon.

"You know I've asked myself that question more times than I can count over the years." A familiar male voice said and suddenly a male frame appeared in front of the doorway.

"Who are you?" I asked defensively as I looked around the room for anything to defend myself.

"Easy. It's me. Art Cousland." A man stepped forward out from behind one of the walls.

He wasn't as tall in his armor but he still held an impressive height. His hair was trimmed neatly and while it contained specks of white, there was more than enough black left in his hair. His face, once upon a time, could have been considered beautiful but a few scars and years of weather had rubbed it into a more mature and masculine look. His frame though while not massive was fit for hours of combat and I had a feeling that he could run even horses into the ground. Still beneath all the wear and tear on him I could still see that young man as he was when he comforted a little girl and ensured the survival of her family.

"Where's the armor?" I asked.

"What? Am I just a piece of metal attached to a human?" He asked with mirth.

"No. You know what I mean." I stated moving to cross my arms only to hiss in pain as my back ached.

"Easy now." I heard him whisper as he suddenly appeared near me and held me up.

"What happened?" I gasped through the pain.

"You were hit with a Lightning whip from the Pride Demon in the Temple. Do you remember?" He asked as he led me back to the bed where I sat down gratefully.

"Yes…It's a bit of a blur but I remember." I answered.

"Well at least you haven't lost any memory. While your wounds are fully healed you might feel pangs of pain every now and again. Hopefully it'll fade in time. In the meantime you now have a scar on your back from where the Demon hit you. Actually looks a lot like a tree." He mentioned thoughtfully and I found myself blushing.

"Ho-how do you know that?!" I found myself shouting out.

"I'm pretty much the lead physician here at the moment, and you my friend are priority number one." He explained as he stood in front of me with hands outstretched.

"Let's try walking again." He said and carefully I took his hands and he pulled me up gently.

With no look of effort he stood me on my feet and I finally looked to see what I was wearing. I was dressed in a grey attire with shiny buttons travelling from my stomach to my throat. With a cough I unbuttoned the two highest buttons which helped me to breathe a little better.

"Ready to meet your adoring public?" I heard Art ask as he stood by a nearby window.

"What?" I asked disbelievingly.

"Well you did save the world…for now anyway." Art mentioned nonchalantly.

"I-I don't want to be famous." I sighed in annoyance.

"Unfortunately that's not your call. Now, it's time to go. We have pressing matters that can no longer wait." Art said in a more professional tone as he escorted me out of the cabin.

The sudden sunlight caused me to blink the tears out of my eyes but as my vision cleared I saw two rows of soldiers, chantry sisters, servants and whoever else managed to survive, line up silently. All eyes were on me and I swallowed nervously.

"It's alright." Art said from the bottom of the steps.

I tried my best not to shake as we made our way throughout the camp. Eventually though we reached the Chantry. Two guards helpfully opened the heavy wooden doors before Art and I entered. No one else occupied the halls of the Chantry and the sounds of our footsteps echoed against the cold stone. Finally we reached the end of the hall where two heavily armored Templar soldiers stood in silent vigil.

"Open the door." Art ordered and with a nod of respect one of the guards pulled a ring of keys from his hip and turned toward the door.

"Be prepared." Art warned as the guard stepped back.

Art pushed the door open and already the sounds of shouting escaped the crack. We both entered, Art first and then myself.

"Chain her! I want her prepared for travel to the capital for trial." I heard Chancellor Rodrick order, and I turned around to see the two Templar soldiers behind me menacingly although stock still.

"Disregard that, and leave us." Cassandra ordered and to my surprise the two Templar's simultaneously raised their right arms to their chest and exited the room before closing the door shut.

"You walk a dangerous line Seeker." Rodrick warned.

"The Breach is stable, but it is still a threat. I will not ignore it." Cassandra stated angrily.

"I did all that I could. Am I still a suspect?" I said stepping forward.

"You absolutely are." Rodrick said with a cold fury in his voice.

"No she is not." Cassandra said dismissively.

"Someone was behind the explosion at the Conclave. Someone, Most Holy was not expecting. Perhaps they died with the other or, their allies still live." Queen Leliana said suspiciously.

"I, am a suspect?" Rodrick asked offended.

"You, and many others." Queen Leliana added.

"But not the prisoner?" Rodrick said focusing on me once more.

"I heard the voices in the Temple. The Divine called to her for help." Cassandra explained.

"So her survival, that thing on her hand, what!? All just a coincidence?" Rodrick said in disbelief.

"Providence. The Maker sent her to us in our time of need and in our darkest hour." Cassandra said with almost a reverence in her voice although I could hear a soft scoff coming from Art who stood silently in the corner.

"I am not your "chosen one"." I said calmly.

"Whether you are or you are not is to still be determined but you did arrive when we needed you." Cassandra said gratefully.

"The Breach remains and your Mark is the only thing with a hope of closing it." Queen Leliana stated.

"This is not for you to decide." Rodrick said finally too angry to acknowledge her status as Queen.

With a sudden bang Cassandra slammed down a large book with the official seal of The Divine on its cover.

"Do you know what this is, Chancellor?" Cassandra asked before continuing without an answer.

"A write from The Divine, granting us the authority to act. As of this moment the Inquisition is reborn." She declared as she stepped toward Rodrick who in turn took a step back.

"We will close the Breach. We will find who is responsible. And we will restore order. With or without your approval." She decreed as she pushed Rodrick back.

Unable to do anything else, Rodrick let out a disgusted grunt before pushing past her and exited out the door. As soon as he left Cassandra let out a heavy sigh as she rubbed the back of her head and finally allowed doubt to cloud her normally stalwart façade.

"The Divine asked me to be here secretly and help her write this directive." Leliana said as she took a step toward the Writ and touched the cover almost lovingly.

"This is the Divine's directive. Rebuild the Inquisition of old. Find those who will stand against the chaos. You aren't ready. You have no leader, no numbers, and now no chantry support." Leliana said grimly.

"Never stopped us before." I heard Art say and I saw Leliana actually crack a small smile despite the situation.

"But we have no choice. We must act now, with you at our side." Cassandra said as she stared at me with a pointed gaze.

"What is the "old" Inquisition?" I asked.

"An ancient order that stood against the chaos in a world gone mad." Leliana explained.

"They were there before the chantry and after it, laid down their banner and became the Templar order, but the Templars have lost their way." Cassandra said with a sad shake of her head.

"We need people who can do what must be done, and we need them united under a single banner once more." Cassandra finished.

"Aren't you still part of the Chantry?" I asked only to hear a scoff from Cassandra with a wry smile on her face.

"Is that what you see?" She asked.

"The Chantry will take time to elect a new Divine, and then it will wait for her new direction." Leliana explained.

"But we cannot wait. So many Grand Clerics died at the Conclave. No…we are own our own, perhaps forever." Cassandra said with regret.

"I will help." I said after a few moments pause.

"That is all we ask." Leliana said gratefully.

"Help us fix this before it's too late." Cassandra said as she offered her hand to me.

With no hesitation I took it firmly and we both nodded silently, one in gratitude and the other in acceptance.

"Well with that I must be off." Leliana said taking on the regal stance of a Queen.

"You will not be staying?" I asked.

"I'm a Queen. In my younger days I would have been right here doing what I do best. But, I have other responsibilities elsewhere." Queen Leliana explained as she grabbed a large fur coat and placed it over her shoulders.

"I'm sure Allistar is a mess right now." Art said with a laugh.

"You know him. Besides if a Queen does not stand with her King during times of crises what does that say to the people? No. I will leave; however, I will leave my eldest here." Queen Leliana stated.

"A mother? You never told me." Art said in a hurt tone.

"Consider it revenge." Leliana said with a cunning smile.

"Ouch. Alright then, I will accept it. Still is she competent?" Art asked only to tilt his head as a small dagger flew past his face and clattered against the wall behind him.

"You were right momma. He is fast." A soft voice called out from behind Leliana and seemingly from Leliana's shadow a small girl stepped out dressed in a mottled grey cloak.

"This here is Leah. She has outsmarted spymasters from all over Thedas. I fear she may be even better than me one day." Leliana said proudly.

In response to her mother's praise Leah puffed out her chest in pride. We all watched as Art advanced on her and knelt down in front of Leah and took in her appearance. Her features were purely from Leliana but her already long hair was a dirty blonde that spilled out from the darkness of her hood. Much to everyone's shock, especially Leliana, Leah pulled a dagger from beneath her cloak and made to stab Art directly in his eye. Much to our relief; however, Art caught the slim nine year old's wrist with his left hand before pinching her left cheek with his right hand.

"You move your shoulder too much. In any case, you are years from hurting me physically." Art stated pinching slightly harder and causing Leah to flinch.

"Mother?" Leah asked.

"You will receive no help from me." Leliana said with almost a hint of a smile on her lips.

"I see. Very well I concede defeat. I will work for the Inquisition." Leah said calmly.

"You take after your mother. Eerily so." Art said as he let go of Leah's cheek and stood up.

"Father says the same thing." Leah said as she rubbed the red mark on her cheek.

"Protect her Art." Leliana said calmly as she made her way toward the door.

"Are you trying to order me around?" Art asked in a playful tone but the mood of the room had changed entirely.

Instead of the kind man that had helped me walk here, in his place stood someone…dangerous. Someone that invoked some sort of primal fear hidden below layers of civility and years of domestic living. A fear very familiar to our ancestors who still hunted with sticks, bones and stones. Was it the way he stood? Or was it the way he looked? Whatever the reason, we all watched in confusion and in somewhat surprise as Queen Leliana turned on her heels and bowed slightly.

"I apologize. Sometimes I forget whom I'm talking to. Would you do this for me? For a friend?" Leliana asked as if she wasn't a Queen of one of the strongest nations in Thedas and more like a regular servant asking her master for a day off.

The tension in the room was palpable and I could see Leah's body tense ready to defend her mother, to the death if need be. Cassandra and myself were also tensing up to defend Leliana.

"Calm down everyone. I was just joking." Art said with a devious smile which caused everyone to sigh in relief.

"Of course I'll keep her safe. Maybe instill a few manners as well if that's alright." Art said looking at Leah who pulled out a dagger threateningly.

"Of course. I'll be off then. Be safe dear." Leliana called out to her daughter before exiting the room.

"Wha-what? Just happened?" I said as a variety of thoughts and emotions swirled through my head.

"It seems that in addition to being the Hero of Fereldan, our esteemed guest is also someone with enough political clout to intimidate a Queen." Casandra said suspiciously.

"Ah." I uttered at a loss of what to say.

How powerful are you now Art?

I asked myself and I was reassured that I was not the only one with that question on my mind as Cassandra took a few steps closer to inspect the man who seemed rather relaxed as he placed one hand on his hip and with a lightning fast move placed his other hand gently under Cassandra's chin.

"Careful Pentaghast you might get burned." Art warned smoothly before withdrawing his hand before Cassandra could smack it away as a very visible blush glowed on her cheeks.

"Well, with that out of the way I'll call in Soldier Boy and Lady Montilyet." Art said as he dismissed himself.

"Soldier Boy? Lady Montilyet?" I asked confused.

"Commander Cullen, ex-templar, he was present during the fall of the Circle of Magi in Fereldan and also there during the Kirkwall Chantry disaster. A man with a lot of a rage and a flash temper. Although, from my reports its seemed he's calmed down quite a bit since then. A good commander for our forces. Such as they are." Leah said nonchalantly as she passed a dagger from hand to hand in an elaborate fashion.

"And Lady Josephine Montilyet…our ambassador to the world. Extremely skilled in the art of negotiation and has been Antiva's primary negotiator with Orlais before she came here at the beckoning of her friend, Queen Leliana." Cassandra said finally getting over Art's seemingly successful attempt to fluster her.

Suddenly the door opened and a copper toned woman step through the door. She was dressed in typical Antivan fashion, ruffles and laces, and in her hand she held a clip board with an ink well and candle fastened securely as to avoid mishaps. She was beautiful and exotic and I felt very aware of my own paleness and although I was pretty in my own right, I certainly did not have the grace that Lady Montilyet displayed.

Right after her was a stark contrast. Commander Cullen certainly held the demeanor of any human male I had met with a position of power. He stood ramrod straight, marched perfectly to the cadence in his own head and was dressed to the utmost utilitarian measures which consisted of light armor with a fur collar and a sword which he kept his left hand on the pommel of, so as to draw it at a moment's notice. He was handsome with a few scars that did little to mar his features and as they both stopped in their respective positions I felt their gazes turn on me and I immediately felt them measuring my worth.

"So, I've heard we started an Inquisition?" Commander Cullen stated more than asked.

"It is in the writ." Cassandra pointed toward the book which laid silently on the table.

"I see, I already have an idea of what is to come." Lady Montilyet shook her head as she walked toward the writ.

"I think we all do." The calm voice of Leah said as she put her knife away and walked closer to where we all began to huddle.

*****A Few Hours Later*****

"Maker's Breath and Andraste's Skirt!" Cullen shouted in frustration.

"Cullen! A child is present and one of Noble birth." Josephine scolded.

"I…apologize." Cullen said and bowed slightly.

"It's quite alright. We're colleagues. Equals. Regardless of age or nationality. Now, howe are we going to accomplish all of this?" Leah pondered out loud.

"We have no political allies. I have enough favors however, to keep us supplied for another week…maybe a little longer. But! That will be it. We must find allies and establish trade routes of our own if we are to survive." Josephine said as she scribbled furiously on her board.

"We will try to earn some good will and continue to keep the roads safe." Cassandra said only for Cullen to scoff.

"With what troops? Our numbers were not large in the first place. A mere one thousand souls with only a count of three hundred and a handful more left after the explosion and subsequent attacks from demons. We need recruits if we are going to accomplish even the most minimalist of tasks." Cullen said as he tossed a few nearby figurines back into the box.

"I can count on one hand how many people will be suited in evaluating potential recruits. We have too many openings, to many gaps in security. If we are going to build the Inquisition up we must make sure they will be loyal to us, to the cause. We cannot let spies, and who knows what else in. Maybe, a few already are." Leah said as her eyes narrowed as her thoughts turned darker.

"We are indeed in dire straits. If we do not consolidate our strength now the Inquisition may be killed in its crib." Cassandra said looking at me.

"What do you suggest?" I asked.

"We're stretched thin. We must pull back our forces, husband our supplies, and make sure everyone knows what the Inquisition is and what we stand for. This will allows us to focus on weeding out spies, earn the trust of our soldiers, and we can star recruiting." Cassandra suggested and the rest nodded their heads.

"Perhaps I was too hasty…there may be one ally we can turn to." Josephine said hesitantly and I saw Leah's eyes widen in surprise.

"Who?" I asked.

"Art Cousland." Josephine said and suddenly everyone besides myself burst into protest.

"Enough!" I shouted as I brought my hand down onto the table with a loud smack shutting them up.

"What are you talking about?" I huffed out annoyed.

"You have no idea who Art is do you?" Leah asked.

"No. I met him once when I was younger during the Blight. Since then I've lived beyond the lands of the Free Marshes with the Dalish." I explained and everyone nodded in to the revelation.

"That makes sense. You would have no idea what has been happening." Josephine paused before continuing.

"Nine years ago a small settlement was started in the Uncharted Territories to the south. This settlement was called Holme." Josephine explained.

"Holme…in elven that means Haven." I said in surprise at the identical names of the place we stood now.

"Yes, at first it was ignored by both Orlais and Fereldan." Josephine finished as Leah cleared her throat.

"A mistake on their part. Shortly after the founding of Holme a variety of goods began to appear from the settlement. Most notably was the medicine they call a stimpack. It is rare to find it outside of Holme itself, the small syringes contain medicine unlike any we have ever seen. It heals wounds faster and prevents them from becoming sour with rot or insects. Already it has saved many lives. Therefore you can imagine how expensive stimpacks began to cost, and understand why Queen Celene made moves to annex the settlement." Leah finished as Cullen stepped in.

"Orlais sought to take advantage of its proximity to Holme and sent two full legions of Chevaliers to annex the settlement. Their trip was precarious to say the least. Their men were unaccustomed to the dangers of the new environment and lost a few men to carelessness more than anything but then came the raids. Within a fortnight their supplies were burned, damaged, or spoiled and the raiders would aim to wound not kill. By the time the Chevaliers managed to reach Holme they found the defenders had built multiple stone walls that stretched a mile long and broke up the clear ground of the valley rendering the Chevaliers horse tactics useless. Despite starving, sickness, and low morale the Chevaliers predictably charged." Cullen paused.

"And?" I found myself asking.

"And of the two legions of Chevaliers only a company worth of men came back." Cullen said grimly.

"How did the defenders defeat them?" I said dumbfounded.

"Nobody knows. Rumors and tales from survivors say that the defenders of Holme had a new form of magic. Dragons, conjured to fit in a defenders hands that when used created thunder and struck like lightning. Hundreds dropped before they even reached the wall. Then when the Chevaliers finally reached the wall their soldiers fought like nothing ever seen before. By the end of the battle no one knows how many, if any at all, defenders died for the surviving Chevaliers never saw one fall." Leah said as if repeating it from memory.

"The leader of this settlement, or should I say, fledgling nation is Art Cousland." Cassandra said.

"What is he doing so far away from Holme?" I whispered as I searched the map for any markings of where Holme was said to be.

"We have no idea. He was instrumental in closing the Breach; however, he has also managed to save many of our injured and even you, from the wounds you sustained from the Pride Demon." Cullen said with respect.

"We must ask that you talk to him, to see if Holme with render us with aid." Josephine explained.

"It will be costly." Cullen warned.

"Indeed. Mother said Art was a shrewd negotiator, even when he was younger. If tales of his silver tongue are to be believed, then we are in trouble. No doubt our very souls may be bargained." Leah frowned.

"What makes you think I'll do any good then?" I said already feeling dizzy from the recent information.

"You seem to have a good repertoire with him. Perhaps you can lighten our losses." Cassandra stated and the others nodded in agreement.

"Fine...just don't blame me if things go wrong." I agreed reluctantly.

"Very well. We will try our best in our respective fields." Leah said with a bow and the others uttered similar sayings before leaving the room and me alone in it.

"Alright…and I'll talk to a man powerful enough to shake nations." I muttered grimly and sighed.

First chapter of my new story done. Hope you all enjoyed it. Have a good one.