But I don't really need to hog exp, I need manpower more. "Why have you not taken them out with archers? Or with magic?" I let my voice carry over my warriors.
"Sky-Chosen!" one the Avvar kills his opponent, barely dodges a pike to his gut, and retreats towards me, "We…"
"You are the leader of these barbarians?" a booming voice interrupts whatever my warrior wished to say.
I looked into the huddle of Fereldans to see it was the Arl who spoke. Not surprising, but useless. As such I don't deign that with a response and address my warrior "Form a front line and get some archers in here."
"At once Sky-Chosen!"
"Hakkon is better praised in one-on-one fights" another warrior mutters.
"I have withstood many Avvar raids, even Chasind, West Hill Arling will not fall this day!" the Arl shouts from deep within the hall.
Once again I ignore him. I'm kind of curious if that will make him come to me, maybe offer a duel or something.
"Coward!"
The Avvar warriors around me bristle but I just chuckle and still address only them "Let him come to us if he has something to prove. How are we with the rest of the castle?"
"There is resistance at the barracks, the inner courtyard and there are some barricaded rooms upstairs"
"Leave the rooms alone for now" I hum.
"Rila has already issued the order"
"Excellent"
"Move aside, move aside" my chief scout, and one hell of a shot with a bow, arrives into the hall and startes positioning his people.
I am surprised the Arl doesn't attempt a futile lunge towards our line. He has nowhere to go and has a nice group of fully armored people with him. I would've risked it in his position. Does he think he will endure the arrows and we get bored and leave?
They'll die with normal arrows alone, never mind arrows enchanted for armor penetration.
"Try not to hit the shouty bearded man if possible, I'd like some information about Ferelden from him"
"Attack!" the Arl finally orders and starts the charge.
My firing squad doesn't hesitate and starts shooting at the knights. My warriors in front have enormous grins on their faces and their weapons at the ready. Looks like I will get that final fight after all.
But first… I lock eyes with the Arl and use a telekinetic push to make him fly back to where he started, way behind his household knights. I want him alive after all. Only then I join the fire support, shooting arrows of light along the normal ones of my warriors.
As expected, the fight doesn't last long at all after that. And not one of my warriors die, which is a boon. Some are pretty injured though, enough to warrant some emergency healing from me. When a near ton of muscle and steel charges through you, you feel it.
Best part, Arl Gallagher Wulff is still alive and well. Ok, not well, being pretty much fucked, but well enough for a little mind diving.
Tell me aaaaall your secrets…
I never liked that I don't know precisely how long I will be in someone's mind and how vulnerable that leaves me, but with Margit and my increasingly loyal Avvar that is not really an issue anymore.
"My lady?" Margit asks when I came back up for air.
"I'm back. How is it looking?"
"Rila has everything under control" the red-head reports, "I took care of the second courtyard and the warriors are nearly done with everything else. The barricaded rooms will be next, I imagine that is where most of the civilians are hiding. You will be taking those prisoner as planned?"
"After I take a peek into their mind" I nod, "Those who can adapt can stay."
"Will you not be 'adapting' them with magic anyway?"
"There are limits. And I can't have my people watch everybody, they have lives"
"Eventually we'll need to police the entirety of Ferelden" Margit arches her eyebrows.
"Not long, Orlais and the Chantry will make for a wonderful common enemy" I smirk, "I just need to make sure the Fereldans side with me."
The soldier nods "For that we need to supplant the Chantry. That will be a long process."
"Oh, I have just the right fist step! But let's take care of everything else before that – I need to oversee those prisoners upstairs and I want to loot the library."
"The library?"
"The Avvar might not appreciate books, but I do. I'll keep them safe in my Inventory for now. Maybe when I get Ostagar, I'll gather enough for an impressive library of my own"
"You could put them in Skyhold"
I hum "I think until the conquest of Ferelden is complete I'll stick to Ostagar. Skyhold will be my seat of power once I target Orlais in full"
"We should start repairing it before it comes to that" Margit advises.
"I'll add it to the list"
X
Highdun will come in handy sooner or later but right now it is time to rejoin the tribe and return to camp. With our new guests that I will distribute among the civilians of the new holds. Right now I only have one, sure, but that will grow. I just don't want to have the Fereldans packed all together, at least at first. I already softened them up with Mind Mage and would be getting them some loyalty compulsion enchantments once they get new stuff, but most of the work will be done by the normal people of the tribes. Assimilate them, make them fall in line. And educate the children, no way I let the next generation grow up Andrastian.
Speaking of the Andrastian Chantry… a little show of force is in order. [Lightening Strike]!
The very skies obey my command and a truly massive lightening strikes the Chantry building. Then two more follow, leaving it a smoking wreck and rubble.
The Avvar still in the yard loudly cheer, praising the skies, its Lady and myself.
I too grin at the skies that decided it was a good time to stop raining and give us some meager sunlight. Very symbolic. With Highdun under my control, the Arl dead and the bulk of his forces dead by either us or the darkspawn, the rest of the Arling is only a matter of time.
And effort, sure. Some soldiers still remain, stationed around the villages to the north east, as well as those aforementioned villages, but West Hill Arling is as good as mine.
The bad mood of this morning is well and truly gone.
Hey, maybe Margit will be down to celebrate.
I got to say that I am partial to Avvar weddings. They're short, lively and that knotting and untying thing adds a level of excitement to it. I'm actually surprised nobody bets on how many years will they get but I guess the ceremony is a bit too religious for that. Still, I like the custom – the woman can influence how long they will last by either tying the knots loose or really tight and the man can either go slow or fast. It's a good system, definitely better than death do us part. Reminds me of the Celtic marriage– you get a year as a trial run and only after that you decide if you want to continue or not.
It also tickles my funny bone that the Avvar are literally 'tying the knot'.
Anyway, like any wedding I ever attended there is a lot of booze going around and a lot of sex too. Which is great since I need a population boom. Less great if it takes away people from my army. It's a toss-up but I'm not about to regulate people's lives. Besides, I have a lot of soldiers protecting this little gathering, the camp and the new holds (now two!) as well as the border so this debauchery is fairly limited. The civilians are happy though and a celebration always helps to integrate new people. The Fereldans are really hesitant but I fucked with their heads a lot and each has a minder who I asked to help things along. My Avvar weren't enthused but ultimately liked the fact they would be making a Chantry-believing stuck-up see the light about the Lady of the Skies.
All this has also boosted my Sky-Chosen ratings, meaning Class exp in this context. It is slowly closing in on that 50 and I am very enjoying the bounty it has brought me at each level up.
Speaking of bounty, I'm finally getting laid on a regular basis. For being from an erotic visual novel world, Margit sure was hard to get. But that was my fault, I should've remembered the VN better – Yamato, the main character there, was really forceful with her. But that is not my style. Not by a longshot, but I did take some inspiration. So I cornered her one day and just went down on her. Naturally she protested, but I told her I'd only stop if she asked because she didn't want to and not of some misguided notion of duty or propriety. Didn't say much after that, especially since I give great head. That shut her up quite nicely. Well, not shut up per se… but you get my meaning.
Afterwards Margit was a little skittish with me but the ever-helpful game let me know that us having sex finally capped her affection so I repeated the Yamato approach two more times. After that she dropped the 'I have to be focused on protecting you' line.
Despite her wish of not letting anybody explicitly know, something I do actually agree with, it is hilarious how now she keeps glaring at anybody who approaches me with anything less than business. With all the wedding party at least a little buzzed and excited, a lot of people decided to put the awe of my Sky-Chosen status aside and do exactly that. The Hound pretty much sent them running – it's hilarious.
Even System agrees.
Since my entertainment during this wedding is mostly passive, aside the very nice mead that got delivered from the Frostbacks, I add the pleasure of admiring my progress in my Profile. My favorite hobby.
'Status'
Name: Sofia Vetinari
Level: 28 (0,1%)
Title: Slayer
Class: Sky-Chosen (Lvl 32)
STATS
HP – 5M (7M)
MP – 27M (28M)
STR – 201(231)
VIT – 249 (304)
DEX – 293 (328)
INT – 653 (668)
WIS – 416 (431)
CHA – 259 (269)
LCK – 89 (119)
Available Stat Points – 115
Pretty good growth for nearly six months in Dragon Age – five in Avvar lands and some twenty days in Ferelden. Sure, most of that growth is due to my Class since I don't really have the time to go to dungeons anymore, but this way is more fun. I really hope I get that new dungeon at level 30, otherwise I don't see going there much at all.
Spars against Margit are the norm now but the bulk of the fighting is against darkspawn or the Arling soldiers. I usually let my troops do most of the attacking, building their confidence and skills, but it's not like I'm leaving it to them completely. Now that West Hill Arling is almost completely under my control, I'm already thinking of splitting my army up, delegate. I can't be everywhere, even with [Flight] and [Teleport], and I'm planning on taking everything on my way to the Brecilian Forest. That's a pretty big boundary and I need capable soldiers to help defend it. Wards and barriers can only do so much.
Not to say that I didn't do some clandestine Stat stealing on the side – after the battle at Highdun I was so close to getting that Perk at 200 STR that I did a little expedition to Denerim. I only needed to walk in and immediately there was a little gang that sought to mug me. Lucky for me two of those mooks gave me STR. I also got one guy to give me LCK while last one was a DEXterous little bastard. I simply snapped their necks and moved on. Seven people later, aka three little thieving enterprises, I finally got over the threshold. The Perk I got was reasonably good, even though I don't do much melee. Still, doubling the Critical Damage I can dish out with those Skills is welcome. I like Crit Chance better, but that is based on DEX.
Apart from the need for Strength, the rest of the Stats is going up nicely. Thanks to Sky-Chosen my LCK shot up and I'm already excited to reach that 100 and getting a Perk there too. CHA is also getting boosted by my Class, already netting me [Unhatable] which makes it so that my rep cannot fall under -90. My guess is that at 100 rep is locked out, so this gives me the option to turn things around.
With a very pleased hum and a generous sip of my drink, I switch Tabs. My Skills are an even better sight, most of them MAXed. And the Skills that weren't I don't use that much anyway. Like the same spell, just different element, that sort of thing. I'm also keeping that Elementalist Class in mind, so it doesn't seem all that worthy at the moment.
Hmm, maybe I should take some time to think up something new. And maybe decimate a dungeon again – I do need more exp. Skills are always welcome, even though I'm pinning my chances for victory against the greats of this world to my Mind Mage in collaboration with my INT Stat. My most powerful weapons rely of a Stat check and I'm not sure I can match the likes of Solas anytime soon. INT is definitely a priority for me. Though now that I passed 500 it's leveling slower than ever. Thank System for my Stat Steal and the Class system, otherwise I'd be really stuck.
Maybe after my nation gets a real start I can do on another shopping spree, dust my Maledicta behavior and go around stealing Stats. Not Skills this time, Stats is where the gold is this time. Yes, I definitely have to do this. Maybe I can set a time before bed each day? Teleport to Orlais or the Free Marches and kill a few lowlifes? My people can handle things here… they don't need me around all the time.
I made up my mind, I'm going back o serial kil… nope, serial acquirer of Stat Points. Much better sounding. Besides, while I'm doing these rounds I can also scout some individuals for my fledgling empire. People who want to escape. Elves, mages, simple poor people fed up with their circumstances. But I'll have to wait to take them, we need to be a bit more established first, so far I got only some Fereldans in need of assimilation and it's still going to take time.
Anyway, back to my Profile. I skip Perks since I know all twenty-three of them by heart. Achievements is next and that is a bit of a sad sight. The boxes are all grayed out except for the ones about clearing a world, the thief one and the one about becoming a messiah – I unlocked it when I equipped Sky-Chosen. Unfortunately that didn't give me any rewards, guess the Class is reward enough.
Ah well, nothing better than a look into Inventory to cheer myself up. And it's not anything in particular either, just the sight of all those neat and labeled tabs makes me excited. Still, content-wise, there is a lot to feel good about but I kinda hope for some better gear soon. Sure, with Engineer and Enchanter I managed to craft really nice stuff but it's no epic or legendary tier. I don't really know what to do about that, dungeons are scarce, quests are progressing, no clear avenue where to get stuff like that.
… guess I'll see, nothing comes to mind right this minute. I can only hope that the rewards from quests pull through. I got plenty of them – one for every part of Ferelden to conquer for example.
And maybe a new Class can help with the gear thing too. I definitely plan on Blacksmith sometime, though I don't think it'll beat Engineer in the armor department. Still worth a shot though. Or another production Class… Food for thought for when I finish up Sky-Chosen.
I take another sip but find my cup empty. That disrupts my flow and I close all the tabs to get my refill. With my Gamer's body I can't really get drunk for long but I do get a Status Effect, but it's nothing serious. And the mead is so very tasty and so very warming.
"Here" Margit preempts my request and pours me my drink.
"You're the best" I sigh in satisfaction.
"Please pace yourself"
"Come now, Hound, you know how my passive works. Besides, I think you'll be drinking soon as well"
"Oh?"
"Yep, look over there" I nod towards a small and rowdy, or more accurately rowdier than most, group of men, "Being the snoop that I am, I took a peek in their minds."
"And"
"I think we'll be having a challenge very soon"
"Which one? Combat?"
"Depends who they ask for the resolution. That thane close to them is thinking Korth, the Mountain-Father"
"Poetry competition?" Margit whined. She always looks cute when she breaks character.
I smirk "I would choose that one too, they are far too drunk for any other trial."
"Oh, drunken poetry, so much better" the red-head goes back to stoic but her words have delightful bite.
"I'm rather looking forward to it, could be fun. Definitely better than anything I could produce" I reply. Huh, might be actually worth to make a Skill out of it if System permits. My INT should be enough for winning a possible trial but a Skill is a Skill.
Can't be worse than your singing
Hush.
Just saying
'I'll practice my rhymes' I resist on outwardly rolling my eyes.
+1 CHA
'Thanks. Hey, you don't have a Rep counter for yourself right?'
Nope
'I get CHA instead?'
Yep
'Thank you!'
"Looks like your guess is correct," Margit continues our conversation, "Those men are stomping towards us."
"Poetry it is"
"Lovely"
I chuckle "You can go check on Alara if you want, she is your apprentice of sorts after all."
"I cannot, I'm here to protect you"
"From drunken poets?"
"From everything" is the stern reply.
I smile at that, doubling that as a smile to the approaching group "I know."
I'm definitely rewarding that devotion after this feast. I bet we can escape from here in two hours or so.
Yep, definitely doing that, Margit is truly just like the eroge character, stamina included. And like in the novel she has a submissive streak a mile wide and not at all vanilla. Heck, the MC of the novel gave her a collar like a week into their relationship.
Sudden thought – does her mask qualify as something similar? If so, she's even freakier in this area than I thought.
"Sky-Chosen!"
Oh, right, I have a job to do.
Once again lamenting not having a mini-map function in this Game, I consult the copy of the map I stole from the Arl's study and finally pick where my ward tree is going to look the prettiest. One quick application of Mokuton later, I watch as the tree grows big and strong. I give it all the trimmings too – fireproofing and extra sturdiness, no ordinary lumberjack is cutting this down. Finally I anchor the ward from the tree I planted a few minutes prior some kilometer away, as well as the ward that goes through my quick and easy vines I used on the eastern boundary. With a non-audible but still felt 'click', my barrier around the whole Arling is complete.
I rise higher in the air to admire my morning's work.
Quest COMPLETE!
You conquered West Hill Arling
Award: 300 000 exp, 100 credits, Unlocked Secondary Class function, Unlocked Secondary Class [ Conqueror ], gacha
Oh? That is… unexpected. I thought I'd get an Item or something, not a Game feature. Getting a tiny bit excited, I go into the Class tab.
[ Conqueror ]: You get 10% of earned exp from every soldier fighting in your name
My excitement rises.
And rises. Glad I don't have that shape-shifted cock on.
This can potentially fix my problem with my Level, and exp. I already get a portion of what Margit earns, 30% to be exact, but this would go for every single soldier. All my Avvar warriors. And beyond! If I get more people to join my army, I get more exp each battle. Heck, I don't even have to be present! I can just select a squadron and tell them to, I don't know, conquer Starkhaven, and still get plentiful exp from it. This is excellent mechanic. Well thought out.
Thanks
I ignore that. My already pressing need for more manpower just got even more pressing. Well, not pressing per se but I have that [Sin of Greed]. I want my exp now. And yes, I know I sound like a petulant child. I don't really care.
Lucky for me, Fallowmire is the next destination on the list. While West Hill Arling does have a tiny border with the Korkari Wilds, it's nothing compared to Fallowmire. We are bound to find the Chasind there, or other wilders.
Floating along the vines border, I take a good look in the distance. The closer I go, the more apparent is the change in scenery – the forests and grassy hills morphing into a more swamp-like terrain. I remember the Wilds form DA Origins but also from Inquisition. Both paint a different picture but I guess the Wilds are just so damn big that it makes sense. This is Origins through and through. Fortunately Flemeth's hut is still some ways away, the Warden did walk there from Ostagar. I need to farm some more INT but I wager I won't get a shot at the immortal witch/elven god just yet. Best I can hope is to avoid her.
Or I can find some things that can help. Fingers crossed. 'System, spin the gacha for me please?'
Item Acquired!
Skill Book [ Flash Step ]
Bleach this time? Not a bad anime to take stuff out of – badass swords and cool powers! And Shunpō is definitely one of the best of said powers. A step at a speed so immense that it looks like teleporting. And no need for any kunai or tags (looking at you Namikaze Minato). Yes, I decided – I am happy with this roll.
So dramatic
Hush, it's no Excalibur.
*pout*
Roll better next time then
I roll my eyes and ignore both lines of text. Both have obvious flaws so it's perfectly deserved.
Anyway, another teleport power. But! It's not the same as what I already have, so a good outcome despite that. [Teleport] is best over long distances, and the fact I need coordinates is a pain. It's an awesome support Skill but can't really be used in combat. [Shadowport] is better in this aspect but it needs the shadow component. And it's fairly low-range since it only works in my line of sight. [Flash Step] is definitely a combat ability. I'm already blindingly fast but with this…
Hm, I wonder how it'll compare with the likes of Superman or Flash… I mean, the Skill multiplies my DEX given speed. How much will it be when I MAX the Skill. And keeping in mind that I'm still growing in said Stat.
Fastest woman alive sounds pretty good.
Nah! It's Bleach, I'll usurp Yoruichi's title and be the Flash Goddess. Yep, sounds better. Why settle for woman when you can be a goddess.
Corny
Wasn't talking to you.
So, might as well start training the new Skill right away, my work here is done and I really should return north to Honnleath. The town is placed a bit precariously for my tastes – right at the border between my Arling and Redcliffe Arling while technically belonging there. My resolve not to touch that part of Ferelden for the moment stands, no need to go against a full army when I can skirt around them. If I don't attack I think they'll let me be on the account of the civil war. Let them worry Loghain, let them think they can simply kick us out later.
And for them to really think that, I'm planning on helping things along with Mind Mage. Right now only in Honnleath, make them unafraid of us, make them sure that we won't come any further, make them even glad for our presence since we can be a buffer between them and the darkspawn. That will calm Bann Tiegan at least. Once the Warden wakes up the Arl, I'll be paying them an invisible visit anyway. Nudge things my way. But that is some time away still, the Origins party is in Denerim so they might've met the cultist that took over Genitivi's house but nothing more. There is plenty to do there, so I imagine they will stay a while. And they plan to move towards the elves next anyway, giving me more time in this area.
My own Avvar are moving as well – Fallowmire is the destination. The civilian part, or those that are not staying in West Hill, will probably settle at the border while me and my army go to continue our conquering spree. Fallowmire is pretty easy, there is one admittedly impressive fortress but the rest is no trouble. The real trouble is the swamp parts and the presence of the Chasind. But them I'm not planning to conquer by force, rather recruit them to my cause. It will probably take some fighting anyway but nothing compared to the Fereldans. And I'll be leaving most of the Wilds alone too, don't want to encounter any ancient elven cultists or similar surprises like in south Orlais. My aim is the northern part or the Korkari Wilds and then wherever the locals will recommend.
Guess with the involvement of Chasind, voluntary or not, I will have to keep the conquest plan more flexible.
Do you actually have a plan?
I definitely have the first stage of a plan. One of yet undetermined number of stages…
HAHAHAHAHA!
'Shut up, it's not like I ever conquered a country before! I think I'm doing pretty well, I'm just keeping things open in case of trouble!'
Right…
Jerk.
Whatever. I'm going to Honnleath, to execute my plan.
[Flash Step]
[Flash Step]
[Flash Step]…
OK, I admit, this is not what I expected. For all my talk about the Chasind, the first wilders we meet are actually Avvar. Not one of ours, not from the Frostbacks, but a tribe that settled in the Korkari Wilds after getting defeated by the Fereldans here. Naturally, because of that they are eager for payback and similarly to me they planned to use the Blight to invade.
Which is perfect for me since I need more people and these served themselves to me on a silver platter.
"I challenge you, Fia Sky-Chosen!" the enemy leader's grin is almost blinding, "The winner commands both tribes by the grace of Hakkon!"
As I said, silver platter.
The brutish leader, Malak Bear-Face (he's really hairy), is really confident. For good reason too, he used this tactic to absorb two decimated tribes that took a shot at Hargrave's Keep and lost. As such, his tribe is rather impressive. Nowhere as huge as mine but they are pretty much one tribe at full-force despite starting off with only a handful of his warriors.
I like it, free manpower. And his second-in-command is a smart and sneaky one, he'll be useful. He too commands respect in his tribe despite being only a mediocre warrior, and he seems wary of me. He actually suspects I might win! And he's already planning on how make nice with me. All that and he looks a little bit like MCU's Loki, I'm kinda loving it.
But back to the matter at hand. "I accept the trial," I nod to Malak, "Winner commands all."
"To the death" the man's eyes shine greedily.
"To the death" I withhold my smirk in place of something more neutral. Nobody likes overly-cocky leaders.
All Avvar, both mine and his, starts cheering, whispering, commenting, praying. I don't really know, it's just a white noise hum that I choose to ignore.
Margit is by my side, an annoyed downturn on her lips clearly signalizing she'd prefer to fight for me. Forever the bodyguard. To my slight surprise she does not caution me, instead giving me advice. "If I may recommend, it would be better to best him with a weapon rather than magic. Make a bit of a show as well. Within reason."
Ok, advice plus cautioning me.
"I was thinking just the same," I smile at her, "Impress the newcomers and prove myself the stronger warrior. The awe of the Sky-Chosen will come later."
Margit nods to me "Good luck."
"Thanks" I chuckle, it seems almost redundant but the sentiment is nice. I have Observed my opponent and I truly have nothing to fear. He is strong, strong indeed, but he is a mere human going against a Gamer. Our Stats simply cannot be compared.
The Sword of the Creator is my weapon of choice for this duel, even though I don't think I'll be using the whip function much. I want my new recruits to see my strength, not just a fancy sword.
I smirk as the Loki-lookalike, funny word, takes charge of organizing the duel. Not that there is much to organize other than to shout at people to make room. I do love the Avvar for that, no waiting and no excessive ceremony. If we were in Orlais, the duel would not take place for a week at least. But the Avvar, they only need a few minutes and a short declaration/prayer to Hakkon Wintersbreath, the god of war and all martial endeavors.
And just like that, the duel is on. Pure simplicity. The Avvar were definitely the right choice.
I have to admit to some surprise when the big, hulking and hairy Malak brings two shot axes to the fight. I expected something big and heavy, a warhammer perhaps. Even a two-handed sword. Instead he seems to prefer speed to brute force, and despite his stature he's quite speedy indeed.
Not that he can ever hope to reach beyond DEX 300 like I have. Ok, I'm a little bit short on that, by three measly points!, but my Equipment more than makes up for it. And that is not counting the buff my only active sword Skill gives me - [Form IV: Ataru]. Since it's pretty acrobatic, it's heavily geared towards that Stat. My passive sword Skill, [Sword Proficiency], gives a small buff too. Or Small-ish, I got the Skill to level 67, mostly thanks to my [Skill Thief].
All that and yet I have more cards to play even in this 'fair duel'. Like the Perk I got for reaching a hundred in DEX, [Superb Reflexes], which gives me a Sharingan-like precognition by reading muscle movement and allowing me to react in a split-second.
Really, I am so OP compared to normal people. Such a shame I can't really fight Fen'Harel and Flemeth like this, they got that mental component that will be tricky. Flemeth is basically a soul that can hop bodies, somehow, so if I killed her the normal physical way, she'll just pull a Voldemort. And System knows what Solas has in his bald head, he won against Flemeth after all. Those two I have to fight, and destroy, at soul level. I don't know exactly how yet, but I will.
Maybe I could keep them sealed in something… Kill their bodies and trap their soul until I figure out how to get rid of them for good. With Enchanter and Wardmaster I should be able to figure something out…
"I got you now!" Malak roars, rushing at me with both axes raised.
I'm tempted to roll my eyes, so what if I had a momentary lapse of attention, he's just so slow.
When he's within striking distance I just barely dodge, letting both blades pass through air rather than my flesh, and take advantage of having him so near by burying my knee into his gut. His armor doesn't bother me in the least while his breath is forcefully expelled from his lungs. Fortunately his lunch does not follow.
Taking further advantage of his distracted state I bring my sword down. He manages to move his body so I let him dodge the killing blow and instead I score a long and deep gash into his side and hip.
Poor bastard, that has to hurt like hell. He should've stayed put and let me finish him.
Both Avvar sides are louder than ever, now that a victor is more or less clear. Malak's warriors cheer him on but it is clear the injury he sustained not only hampers him mobility to an absurd degree, but also commenced a countdown on his death – blood is pouring freely from the wound and will not stop until a mage healer takes him into their care.
My own warriors cheer my victory, as premature as it is.
I decide to oblige them and end things quickly. Despite Malak falling into some kind of berserker rage, he's pretty much done for and there is no need to let him suffer needlessly. With a wasteful jump and some flourish, I let the Sword of the Creator bite deeply into his neck and clavicle. He bleeds out in moments.
No epic duel, no noble clash of blades, no dancing on the edge of death. I'm simply too high a level for him. I'm not disappointed about the lack of challenge, not at all, I have worked hard to let things like this be effortless for me.
+ 10.000 exp
[Whip-sword Proficiency]'s level has increased by one!
Yep, not disappointed in the least.
"Very well done, Fia Sky-Chosen" the Loki-lookalike congratulates me as soon as he motions for some of his people to take the body of their late chief away, "We are yours to command."
"My first command is to tell me your name then" I address Loki, kind of sad that I'll have to call him by his real name from this point forward.
"Telev Silent-Step, chief"
"Speak with Rila to get your warriors settled within the ranks, she is my battle-chief. Hound will take you to her," I glance at Margit who swiftly bows, "We march to take Hargrave Keep. Tomorrow or the day after, depending on the situation."
His only response is a bloodthirsty grin and a nod. As he goes with Margit, I once more take a peek into his mind. As I rummage, my smile grows – his thoughts about my peculiar sword-style aside, he tentatively likes me. He was one of those that pushed for the attack on Ferelden and is happy to see that continue. He is also determined to look into my Sky-Chosen title, something that can only help me. Welcome new worshipper, welcome one and all! He is also intrigued by Margit's crimson hair but I magnanimously give him a pass on that. His last, and most important thought, was a reminder to point out to me who could be trusted in his tribe and who can't. According to him, only a handful of true supporters of the fallen thief could be trouble.
Yes, Telev will be useful.
He also inadvertently pointed out another warrior to me, a rival of sorts. Coincidentally the late chief's son. He had two – one is going to be a problem, the other won't. The second son apparently hates his family's guts.
And it is that second son that comes to me next.
"I'm one of your new scouts" the second son announces grumpily. While he is happy his father's dead, he is less happy at my 'kill steal'. Sorry, couldn't be helped. "In preparation for our own attack we already scouted the area. Who is your chief scout?"
I try hard not to laugh, his grumpiness feels a little tsundere-like to me. Adorable. Ehm, anyways, I direct him to my chief scout. I'll be doing my own scouting tonight, to get a better idea on how to show off this time.
"Also, Malak made a deal with two Chasind tribes" the second son shares, making me give him my undivided attention.
"What deal?"
"The chief wanted to invade Ferelden in force and managed to strike a tentative agreement on that," my new favorite scout shares the fantastic news, "If he could prove worthy, by sacking Hargrave Keep, our two neighboring tribes promised to consider joining."
"Consider? Tentative" I don't like those words, I'll be making them more definite.
Second son, Shav, merely shrugs.
"Share their location with my scouts, I'll approach them after we take the keep" I order.
"As you wish"
"Anything else?"
"Nothing that comes to mind. Right, other than Malak's firstborn already planning on dueling you to win the tribe back"
"Oh that," I chuckle, "That little hairy oaf that is glaring at me right now?"
Shev surreptitiously turns and then smirks "That's the one."
"I'll keep an eye on him"
"Probably for the best, he can be a right bastard. I'll go report to the scout"
I send him on his way with a nod, already rummaging through his brother's mind. Not that Shev admitted they are related. Yep, right bastard indeed, such nasty plans. Ah well, I'll just mindfuck him a little and make him concentrate on him wanting to duel me. Like his father he needs to go. The rest will most likely fall in line after that.
Best to tell Margit though, she can watch him for me.
Maybe if he does challenge me I can show off some of my signature Sky-Chosen magic. Get a head start on the worship. Or would it be better to spring it on during the attack on the keep? No, it'll be better not to set the precedent that I fight all duels with normal weapons, it might get me challenged more when they think they actually have a chance.
Anyway, the plan for the rest of today is clear – I should practice a bit of Mind Mage on the newcomers. I need people and they are free real estate, I just need to nudge some in the right direction. Right now most are a bit hesitant but not angry about their leader getting killed. But much of that good-will is due to my plans for Ferelden, they really want to carve up some new territory for them. I can build on that, especially after we take the keep. Convince them that their wish will come true should they follow me, that I am the only one that can lead them through all of Ferelden.
Let's get to work then, I still need to do my own reconnaissance after. I trust my scouts to do a good job but we are still in the early days of conquest, I want to make sure. I can't afford any setbacks now. Or loss of face.
Ok, let's mingle.
"…and we found some siege weapons stored in the third courtyard. They are in good shape and I think they can serve us well in the future. Also… My lady, are you listening to me?" Margit interrupted her status report to get more of my attention.
"I am. Siege weapons"
"Indeed" the red-head's eyes narrowed in suspicion, "Should I continue?"
"We really need a flag" I hum instead of answering, it's what has been on my mind ever since I floated back up on the battlements after the keep was indisputably mine.
Margit doesn't seem impressed "Pardon?"
"A flag. When Ferelden gets its act together, we can't be just a little tribe of barbarians, I want us to be a nation. What better way to say that than a flag. And it would look great fluttering in the wind right over there" I point at the tallest tower.
"I see" even less impressed now.
"Do you have any suggestions?"
"How about I finish my report?"
"Go ahead" I hum, still stuck on the flag issue, "But you already covered the most important parts, that Rila finished mopping up what defenders were left, that an inventory is being taken and that everything is under control now."
Despite my addendum, Margit indeed continues. I still listen but only with one ear, I truly already know most of the things from my little spying expedition.
I already had my excited moment over the frankly huge forge the keep has. I will definitely taking up that Smith Class soon. Not only I'm looking forward to the new crafting options, one more suited to this world, but the Stats it gives are good too. It does have INT, so I won't be missing out on my most important Stat, as well as VIT and STR. One of each.
Less excited I was over the library. If a few shelves in the main office can be counted as such. The keep though has a nice big war room with many maps, both of Ferelden and of the Wilds. Those will be definitely useful.
The rather vast dungeon's useful too. Right now we stuck the prisoners there, so nice organization. I'll sort them out this evening I think. Fun fact, there are no Chantry sisters or priests this time – the tiny Chantry was empty. I have a suspicion whoever was manning it went to Ostagar and failed to return.
Similarly, a lot of equipment is missing too. Ostagar again I bet. No spare weapons or armor. The food stores aren't stellar either but good enough for now.
The keep has impressively sized sables too, but those are empty. Sad face. Not even a rackety old mare. There is some equestrian equipment laying around, but nothing to write home about.
"…and that concludes my report" Margit finishes up. She gives me a mildly reproachful look to which I can only smile and shrug.
Still, good job. "Thank you, Margit. I'll see to the prisoners soon, the rest seems to be handling itself well. My officers seem to really get into their roles."
"Quite capable" the soldier nods approvingly, "Rila especially. You have chosen well, an excellent tactical mind and a widely respected. Good pick for a general."
"What about our newcomers, anyone strikes your fancy?"
"Telev seems eager to prove himself, quite ambitious that one. But he does have experience leading, being second in command before" Margit hums, "They have a few sneaky types that can be shuffled from main army to the scouting unit too. And there is one that seems interested in the healing arts more than he is in war. He didn't have anyone to learn from before but now he can. The healers though are expecting a go ahead about it."
I arch an eyebrow, finally shifting my eye from the countryside to my henchwoman "Why?"
"You are the chief"
"Fine. But I want it widely known that anyone is allowed to do what they want job-wise. I guess I'll mention it to Rila and the other officers"
"Wise"
"Oh, one more thing. The victory feast. Tomorrow?"
"If you take a look at the wounded, yes. It might be possible tonight too but most people are pretty tired, not to mention hurting from the smaller injuries"
I frown "It was a tougher battle than at Highdun, even though the numbers were roughly the same."
"The layout of this keep is better suited for defense" the red-head reminds me.
"At least we haven't lost that many" I sigh. It's the truth, comparatively. We still lost people, which isn't something I can really afford at the moment. I know it can't be helped but I feel each loss keenly. I really need those Chasind to bolster our forces.
Speaking of… "Could you get me the chief scout? I want to start looking for those Chasind tribes Malak made the deal with."
"Shouldn't they rest?" the red-head asks.
"Of course, but I want to tell them now. My chief should be able to judge when they're good to go" is my conciliatory answer. They do deserve rest, I'll be sure to mention it.
"I'll get her at once"
"Thanks. Oh, I'll be in the lord's office. Or quarters. Find me there"
"Yes, my lady" Margit salutes and turns on her heel.
I watch her go, briefly lamenting the heavy coat that is blocking my vision, but then I refocus on the countryside. Just to be on the safe side I summon several birds to act as scouts and send them south. It wouldn't do for any darkspawn groups to come knocking. I will need to start warding here too, right now I only have a provisionary ward around the keep and my people. We can start expanding from here after the victory feast.
Today though, I too deserve some rest.
As I said to Margit, I make my way to the lord's rooms. They are pretty empty since they mostly went unused, the lord, Arl? Or Bann?, only coming here in case of an attack. It's not a residential keep like Highdun was. Still, at least the godawful medieval bedding has to go. In my foresight I stole lots of nice and comfy and clean mattresses from HotD, still in their original packaging, so putting one in place is a priority.
Throwing the plastic wrap into the trash Tab in my Inventory, I withdraw my favorite linen, this one from BokuHero. I truly love the Inventory, my linen is fresh and still smelling like the detergent my then-roommate used.
Pity I can't put a functioning shower to the Inventory…
Still, I need to clean up, it wouldn't do to soil my nice linen. Thank Game I can practically conjure water and heat it too. Making a tub is a bit more difficult but the stone floor can be shaped well enough. Have to be careful about not using too much material though, falling to the floor below wouldn't be funny.
Maybe the quick shower treatment will be better anyway. I have the fine control for it and it will be quicker, and less possibility of an accident happening. Though it will have to wait until Margit shows up with my scout. Better be professional, my scout is nice but nothing I want to seduce. Definitely not somebody I want to flash or even see me out of armor. Fluffy pajamas are nice but not really something my soldiers should see.
"My lady?" Margit finally knocks, I'm really looking forward to that shower.
"Enter"
The red-head obliges, Rila and my chief scout in tow. Which is great, I can delegate everything to Rila and don my fluffy pajamas without feeling bad.
"Rila?" I prompt the older woman.
My general gives me a more comprehensive report than Margit has, as well as the outline on what to do next. To my satisfaction, everything is perfect. This woman is truly a find. Really, she takes care of everything. The only thing I myself have to do is do some supplementary healing and deal with the prisoners. I can do both in the evening as I already took care of the grave injuries. There are some more that deserve my attention but nothing pressing. Mostly broken bones and such, things that keep my men out of the fight but nothing life-threatening.
Dismissing Rila, and making a mental note of doing dome public gesture in her honor at the feast, I turn to my chief scout.
"I have a task for you and your men. I need it done soon but it can wait for after the feast"
The look I got in return is almost affronted "We are at your command, we can skip a feast."
"You deserve some rest, the battle has not been easy"
"Yes, Sky-Chosen. What is our task?"
Yep, not going to rest. Ah well, I tried. Withholding a smirk, and successfully not glancing smugly at Margit, I explain "I need to contact the two Chasind tribes Malak, the chief I defeated, made a deal of support with. I want that support for myself since I succeeded at Malak's part of their bargain. I'll be speaking to them in person but I need their location, and you to make first contact. Take some of Malak's tribe with you. Shev, I think the name was, was the one to tell me about the deal."
"The surly one" my scout smirked, "And may I take that skinny one that was second-in-command?"
I nod "If he isn't injured."
"It will be done"
"And remember, rest up. At least tonight"
"We'll depart tomorrow then"
"You are the chief scout" I smile with a slight shrug, "You know your capabilities best."
"Tomorrow" the scout puffed up, "Anything else?"
"No, you are free to go"
The scout left with a terse nod, both to me and then to my Hound, ad closed the door after her. Hm, more perceptive than I would've guessed. Guess the fresh and nicely smelling linen gave me away. Or did Enara think I merely wanted to instruct Margit in private? Ah well.
"My lady?"
I chuckle and take off her mask, definitely need to find something a little better for her. Margit glares at me in mild reproach but says nothing. I nod towards the adjacent room "How about a shower? It will take some elemental manipulation but I can make it. I think we deserve it."
"There is a lot that need to be done still…" or so Margit says but she is clearly tempted. An offer of a hot shower isn't something to scoff at in a medieval-like world such as this one. Well, Ferelden is medieval, Orlais is firmly in the renaissance…
"Those things can be done by Rila. Or us after a shower"
"I suppose it wouldn't hurt…" Margit succumbs to the lure of hot water, "But only a quick one! You mustn't shirk your duties, you are a leader, they look upon you for guidance."
"I gave them guidance, the rest is organization and paperwork" I shrug, "And the blissful Avvar haven't arrived to the point of paperwork yet, so I can make do with delegating. I will show my face around later."
"Your attention is always well-received"
"Doubly so when I assist the healers and mages I bet" I chuckle. Even with only a basic [Heal] I'm quite popular among the injured. "Anyway, strip and come with me. The adjacent room is pretty much bare and has a window too, perfect for handling any excess water."
"Do you have any plans in taking the Healer Class?" Margit asks, already taking the heavy cloak off.
"Not anytime soon"
"Well, it is true your bedside manner leaves a lot to be desired"
"Cheeky" I smirk and shoot a small stream of water into her face.
The servant dodges easily with a rare smile
It is that smile that prevents me from hosing her down as a prank. Actually that would be far easier than the shower I'm planning – after all, for an enjoyable shower you need hot water and a good enough current, that is two elements to be controlled simultaneously. And that is discounting the very distracting sight of my naked Hound reveling in said shower. Thankfully, everything is possible with the Gamer. True, it is an unusual Skill rotation indeed, but it will give pleasurable results.
Resisting the allure of Margit's bare body proves to be possible, and even forgotten for the briefest moment when I include myself in the warm stream. Showers after a hard day's work are really the best. Especially in the cold and damp Ferelden.
Speaking of cold, time to get warm. But still damp.
As always I have to initiate, Margit being Margit, but once I give that go ahead the red-head is most eager. Eager enough that I only need my eyes to flicker towards the floor and Margit sinks to her knees before me.
Her usually so voluminous red hair is wet, dark and resting rather flat on her head but it still is pleasurable to weave my fingers through the tresses. And then grip.
Margit moans, much louder than she made me so far and I am the one getting head – really, this girl. But I am not one to kink shame. There is nothing wrong with being a sub, or being really easy to please.
A very inventive twist of tongue makes me shudder and close my eyes. Ok, maybe I am easy to please too…
I don't keep my eyes closed for long, why deprive myself of the visual before me. Hmm, thinking about it, I might shape-shift a little something on the next time we do this, that is always deliciously amusing. Especially since she always shoots me such a dirty look and rolls her eyes despite her liking it that way just as well, maybe even a smidgen better.
All thoughts leave me one by one as Margit really gets into it, leaving only a fluffy cloud of pleasure behind.
So glad [Gamer's Mind] doesn't block this... It would make being queen far less fun.
I don't know if it's luck or Luck, but as far as first impressions go, I made an awesome one with the Chasind tribes. But most credit goes to the darkspawn horde, of course. Me and my vanguard, only a dozen warriors or so, arrived just in time to save the first tribe's camp and the second tribe's scouts. So yes, that is some goodwill right there. That, combined with my success at Hargrave Keep and my pledge to continue my conquest, meant I had an alliance with my first Chasind.
BUT. That's not all! Not by a long shot – I had one more card to play and I played it with gusto and an undercurrent of Mind Mage. With the oh small price of joining me in full, I would protect them and ward their terri… ehm, my territory, from the darkspawn. And they were desperate enough to accept the deal.
The Chasind are prideful people though, so before everything went official, I had to defeat the two tribe chiefs in a duel. Needless to say it was a formality to me. One was a tough mage, I was rather impressed despite him being a baseline human. The other was older, a warrior past his prime, but from my [Observe] I could tell he will be a great asset to me as an advisor. High WIS and INT as well as a lot of experience reining his people in. And both had contact with other tribes and good knowledge of the land. Both were excellent additions to my domain.
And after those two duels, two Game-related things happened.
One was obvious…
Quest COMPLETE!
You got the Chasind to work with you
Hidden Objective: More than an alliance – success!
Award: 500 000 exp, 1000 credits, Item [ Chasind Warhammer ] , gacha
Bonus Objective Awards: + 500 000 exp, +500 credits, 1 companion gem
Awesome. All of it. Pity I had to mingle now instead of inspecting everything but I guess it will hold.
Just to sneak a peek though, the warhammer is pretty cool. Not that I plan to ever use it really, but nice enough for a berserker or something. If it wasn't a gift from the tribes, I would simply give it away. Maybe my yet-unknown companion I will summon tonight will be able to use it. Still, it has nice damage, an even nicer damage over time, and a boost to all physical Stats. Not a bad weapon. I'll stick with my Sword of the Creator though.
Anyways, thing number two. That one I did not expect. Turns out that my Class, the Sky-Chosen, does not top at 50 like normal. Nope, once the duels were finished I received a boost, but in the Profile I simply see level 50 instead of level max. Guess as a prestige Class it has a higher ceiling, maybe 100? Despite wanting to pick up Blacksmith soon, I have no complains about this development whatsoever - the Stats this Class gives me are pretty much double of what I had before with my other Classes.
Not Game-wise a lot more has happened as well. For one I sent out my people to carry my temporary wards so that I could immediately protect my newest people and territory, as well as answer a lot of questions about said warding from the Chasind shamans. The questions did not end there as I had to brief the leaders on my plan for advancing into Ferelden, their role in my army, who are my officers and so much more. Most of it was hard to answer since I only came here with a vanguard - Rila and the other officers were still at Hargrave Keep. The Chasind were hesitant on just picking up and leave, fearful for their families since they haven't seen my wards in practice yet.
One thing though that I consider the most important, was the location of other Chasind tribes. Both chiefs happily promised to lead me and my men to them. My promise of protection to all tribes that join me has been very popular indeed.
Still, I can only do a bit at a time – right now my plan was to gather what warriors were relatively close, I wasn't about to delve into the Korkari Wilds in full when I have to secure my foothold in Ferelden first. The Wilds can keep, Ferelden can't. I want a nice and secure chunk of territory and a robust border while the Blight is still on. I can double back later. Or I can simply send envoys and then teleport to deal with them. Besides, the other Chasid will be more amenable to joining me when I have everything north of them under my control.
So, the goal has not changed, only furthered. I will continue my march to Ostagar while taking land and people I encounter on the way.
"Sky-Chosen!"
People such as this one. I sigh and turn to smile at my skald.
"Yes, Karst?"
The eager minstrel's grin almost blinds me "I have another song! I will play it as soon as we return to the Keep, I'm sure it will be well received by both the army and the Chasind."
"That's great" I nod, "But try to not make the distinction between our two people too prominent, I want us to be a united force. We are stronger together, you most of all know the power of words."
The grin somehow gets even wider without appearing psychotic. Karst nods vigorously "You are going to love my new piece then! Since Avvar and Chasind were once one people in ages past, us uniting again can claim the legacy of the Alamarri. Reclaim the lowlands and bring them back under the gaze of the Lady of the Skies!"
"Excellent" I grin as well, "A truly excellent idea." And it is, I expected me having to nudge things this way but if Karst came to it naturally, all the better. My main quest is to rule a nation, and ruling a new Alamarri state will most certainly qualify. I look forward to this idea spreading. It might even be time to consider what my next main quest is going to be… I'm definitely not jumping away anytime soon, so new quest it is. But I look forward to the Credits, soon I will be able to purchase some quality stuff from the [Shop].
"I'm humbled you think so" Karst gives me an awed nod, "I will work on my song further, to truly impress you."
"It is I who is humbled now" I smile at him. This time he blushes and with another nod he scurries away.
As he goes, I notice that for the first time in many many hours I am free. Nobody seems to stride towards myself with purposeful steps, nobody is calling for me, no Chasind children harassing me for tales. Which is great since I am rather tired. Besides, I should check in with my people at the keep, tell them my mission was a success and that soon we will have reinforcements. I can come back here to do a proper warding with my mokuton tomorrow.
I quickly find my chief scout and the two Chasind chiefs and tell them I'm going to fly back. The latter two wanted to protest but I convince them of the effectiveness of my wards and that I will be coming back. I need to talk to Rila about their warriors anyhow and they should be busy packing up.
Resisting to shout out 'freedom!' in the Braveheart manner, I take flight. Nothing overly fast, I plan to enjoy the journey. Oh, and I also can pull the gacha I got. The new Servant can wait when I'm back on the ground. The timing for it is good too – as the Chasind will mingle with the Avvar, a new face, whoever that might be, should raise less questions.
'System? Could you get my gacha please?'
Item Acquired!
Dungeon Key [ Minoan Maze ]
Huh? That's a new one.
It opens a new permanent dungeon
'I kinda guessed' I arch an eyebrow.
Just trying to be helpful
'You are. Anyway, this is pretty good, I have been looking forward to a new dungeon for a long time now. The hero one is really dull now, and I haven't visited in ages. Reality, as much as a Game reality is, is better' I hum.
Maybe I could take a little detour to the dungeon before I go back to the keep. I shake my head with a sigh, no, I have to responsible. I'll go tonight. Maybe with Margit as well. Work first, dungeon later.
Just as I decide to speed my flight up, I notice something peculiar on the edge of the marshland. A raven, not one of mine, watching me intently. And by intently I mean in a way that makes the hair on the back of my neck rise.
[Observe]
Shit!
Oh, nononononono. I'm not ready for her.
And now I hesitated for far too long.
The raven smirks, I know, impossible yet it happens. And a moment later the bird is gone and instead a tall white-haired woman in a tight maroon getup casually leans against the trunk. The woman is smirking as well and casually motions me to approach.
Shit.
Shit, shit shit. Shit.
INT check failed. [Telepathy] failed
Yeah, yeah, worth a shot.
"Hello, stranger" Flemeth smiles at me. There is no warmth I that smile, it's more taunting than anything. The smile of someone that knows they are in control and that can squash their opponent like a bug.
Which isn't accurate AT this moment, at least I hope. I would put up a great fight and I'm pretty sure I could kill her. Just you know, not permanently. She already made the horcrux thing and sent it with Hawke. But attacking is something I don't want right now. I want to be sure I can deal with her for good before I attack her. That said, I will defend if necessary. Which it might not be, I think she is sure of her superiority that she will dismiss me. That would suit me just fine.
"Hello" I reply, keeping it as simple as it can be.
"You know who I am"
I know a great deal more than she'd like I bet. But that is not what I say out loud. Boy, I hope she doesn't have my [Telepathy]. I nod "The Chasind call you the Witch of the Wilds."
"So they do" Flemeth smirks.
Huh, she does have the look and voice she had in the Origins game - it's like captain Janeway in cosplay is right before me.
"I have not expected you to notice me in raven form" the ancient witch continues, "But I shouldn't have been surprised, should I? Sky-Chosen?"
"So the Avvar tribes call me"
Flemeth laughs, appreciating me echoing her words from before "So they do. I have noted your progress ever since you descended the Frostbacks and now I have to ask, why?"
"Could you please specify?"
"Don't be obtuse" Flemeth's eyes narrow, "Why have you come?"
"To conquer Ferelden" I shrug, hoping she's asking about coming to Ferelden and not Thedas.
"And what do you intend to do with it?"
"Expand"
"That is mildly interesting but disappointing" Flemeth exhales, bordering on a sigh, "A mere conqueror? I would think a mage of your caliber would aim for something less… pedestrian. Alas."
I shrug.
"Yet I see that you are telling the truth" Janew.., ehm, Flemeth, muses, "You do not draw upon the Fade for your magic, I wondered who taught you, especially given your moniker. Yet I clearly see that you are a nothing more than a mortal."
Sure, for now. That can change.
"My curiosity is sated. For now."
Awesome, now please leave.
"But I am sure we do not want conflict between us, do we?" Flemeth smiles, very shark-like this time, "As such it would greatly displease me if anything happened to the Grey Wardens and their companions."
"The Blight must end" I nod, no disagreement there.
"Good" the former elven goddess purrs, "And of course you shall leave me alone, it would pain me so to kill all your warriors that trespass on my land or interfere with my actions."
"I'm sure" is my dry reply, "As for trespass, perhaps you should mark your territory?"
"It is marked. You will be able to see. This is your one warning, there won't be another"
I shrug, exaggerating my disinterest "Your land is your own, it will hardly inconvenience me when I will have the rest of Ferelden."
Flemeth chuckles creepily "You are an ambitious one indeed. No matter, you will get into conflict with the Chantry and that will amuse me. Scurry along, little mortal. Continue killing darkspawn and defend the land, we might even end up friends." The last part is said with an incongruent girly giggle.
"Good day then" I nod, eager to depart from her company.
"God day, Sky-Chosen. Try not to overreach your grasp"
I fly backwards, keeping an eye on her until she once more transforms into a raven and flies off as well. When both [Observe], [Presence Detection] and a slew of other similar Skills tell me she's gone, I sigh.
Hidden Quest Complete!
Survived the encounter with Flemeth
Award: 50 000 exp, 50 credits, Major WIS Stat Stone, Major INT Stat stone
I can only arch my eyebrows at that.
Quest Acquired
Kill Flemeth
Award: 5M exp, 5000 credits, random legendary-grade item, ?
Okaaaay. Why now? I have been planning on doing that before now.
It was nebulous and uncertain, now you have seen her and decided for sure
Ok, if you say so… Anyway.
That went pretty well actually – I have not made a premature and unnecessary enemy and I got to [Observe] her. The last one is a great boon, now I know what to aim at. Her INT being over a thousand was a bit jarring despite being expected, but now I know for sure.
Still, I will climb that INT ladder but I don't think I will reach that high anytime soon. My normal gains in this area have more or less halted, now I have to rely on Class leveling or [Stat Thief]. But of course I would not be relying on my INT alone. Sure, it will help a lot, every point, but I have other ways. Ok, I have very tentative plans, but it's something. It's… inconvenient, but it should hold. I'm still looking into a better way but at least I have something. Funnily enough, it's similar to what Corypehus planned to do with his 'vessel' – a small warded circle to keep a person, and their soul, in.
There are a lot of problems with it though, mostly Mana-wise. Even with a mana pool as deep as mine, it would be crippling, especially since the circle has to be maintained. I cut down the consistent drain via Enchanter but it still needs a charge. As such, this method of dealing with elven gods is firmly plan B. I don't have plan A as of yet but this one is still B. If not C.
With another sigh I withdraw my notebook form Inventory and jot down Flemeth's Stats and description. Hmm, I wonder how Solas compares… He is far more dangerous to me than Flemeth, but I guess he won't care about me unless we come across each other. My 'dealing with immortals' scheme though has to be perfect soon enough, I definitely don't want Corypheus running around mucking this world up. He needs to die. I think he will be my test subject, I don't mind making an enemy out of him. He can be kept at bay far easier than Fen'harel and Mythal.
Hmm, as soon as I get enough people under me, I can leave war to my generals and concentrate on my magic and other plans. I definitely need some more officers, ones that have experience with 'proper war', not just fights. Cavalry, siege weaponry, things like that – Rila is extremely capable and learning fast, but she is still used to a more tribal setting.
Maybe I should start my little kidnapping scheme soon… Maybe after Ostagar. Retaking a fortress like that from the darkspawn horde, the place where the kind and the Gray Wardens died, will be a show of force. After seeing that, I'm sure many of the people I 'persuade' to leave with me will feel safe in staying.
With another thoughtful hum I accelerate my flight, suddenly more energized for training and furthering my plans. Being confronted with someone like Flemeth lit a fire under my ass. I need to tell Margit, train her more. Summon my newest companion and train with them too. Heck maybe they will have an idea how to kill immortals. System knows how many god-killers there are in the multiverse. Dungeon rewards are also nice, and killing the boss always yields a gacha. Or it has so far, that is another chance at something powerful that can help me. Not to mention the exp, that is always welcome.
My decision puts a smile on my face, a smile that only widens when I approach Hargrave Keep. A massive eagle was making a nest upon the rubble of one destroyed tower.
A sign from the lady of the Skies. That is Class exp right there.
Awesome.
"Fia-sama?" a cultured voice interrupts my officers' meeting over my main map.
"Yes, Haku?"
"A scouting party has returned with both news and a whole tribe"
"A whole tribe?" Fila asks sharply.
"Yes, Rila-dono" the ninja bows in her direction, "It seems they have been fleeing from the darkspawn and sought shelter with the tribe the scouts were looking for. They wish to meet the Sky-Chosen."
"What are their numbers?" the young thane that serves as captain of my vanguard askes.
"Only twenty warriors but many civilians"
I nod "I will see to them shortly. Have you made arrangements for their stay?"
"They are being taken care of"
"Thank you, Haku"
"Fia-sama" the Mist-nin bows to me and then once more to the room, then leaves.
"Are you sure he is to be trusted?" Rila asks me, still looking at where Haku has left.
"He?" the shaman representative frowns, "Isn't she a woman?"
"I'm sure he's a he" another replies.
As the argument starts I can only smirk – the mystery that has plagued many a Naruto fan, Haku's gender. A mystery that summoning Haku himself from the Companion Gem has solved. And yes, himself. He says he's a he so that is that. Plus he has a cock so good for him. That said, he is really effeminate and likes to play it up, mostly to confuse people. I leave him to his fun and never confirm anything to anybody who asks me.
Haku is an excellent pull from the random companions. He'll fill the assassin and spy role nicely. As a warrior he is really strong and absurdly fast, the anime really didn't give him justice. He is a capable medic as well, something that mitigates a bit of the suspicion that is leveled upon him. My fault really, despite my assurances, he looks quite foreign and he did appear out of nowhere. I simply said he joined the cause and that we are well-acquainted. My people will get used to him soon enough.
Cutting into the argument I reply to Rila "I trust Haku. He will serve our people well."
"As you say" the woman grimaces, not convinced in the least. Or maybe it is because she knew precisely how Haku could serve and found assassins and spies unpalatable.
I turn back to the map and prompt the meeting to continue.
Things are looking well. Fallowmire has been hit worse than the West Hill Arling so it is pretty much under my complete control already. It was the south that needed much attention – the Korkari Wilds are vast and treacherous terrain. My army stayed on the Fereldan side, I left only with smaller groups when it was needed.
And it was needed – for one, I was doing much warding. Not big swaths of territory but more concentrated on the settlements. The fact that darkspawn could travel underground was a problem, especially in soft marshland. And two, there were eager tribes of Chasind that wished for security. And many wished to move to Ferelden as well. After all Ostagar was first built to garrison a force that would keep the wilders in the Wilds. They lived here and prospered now but Ferelden has fertile land and more space to expand. As such my army has grown by quite a lot. So did my Sky-Chosen Class as that also rose with worship.
As the word of my protection spread, more and more tribes sought me out on their own, leaving me and my people to continue the conquest north without going to look for them.
Word has traveled over the other side of the border as well – there were some patrols made by Redcliffe knights but no altercation has happened yet. We toed the border of the Arling, nicely tangible with my warding trees, and so did they. When my own patrols informed me, I took a peek into Redcliffe Castle. The Arl was still in a coma and Bann Tiegan did not want to provoke anything until he wakes. Which is great. I also made sure to remind him with Mind Mage of who the true enemy is – Loghain and the darkspawn. I was a distant third.
Speaking of Loghain, he has yet to react to me in any way. We are far from Denerim and he has his hands full. He's probably counting on the darkspawn killing us. Still, he will probably change his mind once we get close to Gwaren. Not that I have any immediate plans on it, right now I intend to seemingly round up my territory by the Brecilian Forest. After fortifying what I got, only then I'll move further. And even then it might be the turn of Edgehall Arling, the one west of Lake Calenhad and bordering with the Frostbacks. That one is easier to get than Gwaren or South Reach since the darkspawn softened it up for me.
As I was busy, so the Warden has been as well. Right now her party is deep in the Brecillian Forest, probably fighting werewolves by now. When they will be done with that, it is very much probable I'll get to meet them in person as it would be smart to cross back to Redcliffe and then further to search for Andraste's ashes before going to Orzammar when the winter hits in full.
I plan to have a busy winter as well, my Avvar quite used to the cold and the snow. My conquest shall not halt, it might actually speed up. And not all will be done with pure military might, I will be spreading rumors about safety in my lands, the evils of Loghain, the uselessness of the Chantry. Maybe look into some eventual allies. Loghain and Howe have made many enemies.
But back to the present. With Fallowmire being an easy target thanks to the buffs and weapons I gave to my army, and me being truly needed only at times when we went hunting darkspawn in the Wilds, I was able to put some light training in.
The Minoan Maze Dungeon was a disappointment. It clearly was a low-level dungeon, the enemies quite weak and yielding minimal exp. Though they did drop quite a bit of gold. Still, weak skeletons, snakes and a minotaur boss? Weak. The boss dropped a very nice set of greek-looking breastplate and helmet but nothing to be overly excited about. He did drop another gacha to spin so I haven't lost anything in getting that dungeon key. Might come back sometimes when I need to farm gold.
Spinning the new gacha though gave me an ingot of vibranuim. Right now it's sitting in my Inventory but it's a great pull. And it reinforced my decision to take Blacksmith next. I'm not sure just how much material I need but I definitely want vibranium armor. That alone is sure to guarantee amazing Stats and I will be enchanting it too. Black Panther can eat his heart out.
"Sky-Chosen!" one of my warriors barges into the tent, "Darkspawn!"
"Where?" I hum calmly.
"Just outside the warded border, part of the forest floor collapsed!"
"Numbers?"
"Unknown, they are still pouring out"
I nod, this was an all too frequent occurrence in the Fallowmire "Rila, let's do the usual. I'll take to the skies and take care of the bulk of them. I planned to push the boundary today and won't be denied."
"At once, Sky-Chosen. Atral, Frond, gather your men and…"
As the steely matron started barking orders, I leave the tent. The warrior that has brought the news helpfully points me in the direction of the darkspawn, though I could have guessed by the activity in camp. I immediately take flight and hurry up to the boundary.
It is always heartening to see my wards work. The darkspawn evidently tried attacking but were repulsed by my barrier, so now they were just outside, waiting, growling. My patrol is warily looking at their enemy, keeping on our side of the warding vine. Only the archers and the mages lobbed their attacks through my barrier.
I fly further out, looking for the opening to the Deep Roads. True to my warrior's words, the filth is still pouring out. With a thoughtful hum I will a vine to grow around the fissure. In a very practiced motion by now I craft a ward and anchor it to the vine.
"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH!"
For not being able to speak, the darkspawn are sure loud. Then again, the fire damage put into the ward lights them up as they try to cross. And they do not stop crossing fast enough, the mass underneath pushing their brethren to their death.
They would smarten up soon though so my next action is to launch another, quite massive, fire attack into the mass underground. And another for good measure. In the newly formed space I summon several tigers with orders to let loose. I need to kill the whole contingent of darkspawn that came here lest they simply find another exit. The greatly buffed tigers should help me hunt them down.
From the distant sounds I can tell that Rila and my people have engaged the darkspawn as well. Leaving the surface to them, I delve into the underground. To my surprise there aren't that many of them, and what there is, is pretty tightly grouped. Sucks for them.
That said, my maneuverability in such close quarters isn't ideal either but I have taken great care in maxing all my defensive Skills in both dungeons and my spars with Margit. As arrows pepper my shield in a volley, I'd have evaded otherwise, I summon some more animals to my aid. Nothing overly big and destructive, I don't want the tunnel to collapse on me. I'll be closing it later once all the undead are gone.
Fire and light are my elements of choice, not only they work best but they also help me see. I could resort to my Inventory and take my night-vision goggles, but it doesn't seem all that necessary. Still, I kinda miss my Engineer days, creation Classes are really fun. Soon though, I will be able to switch again. Well, provided Sky-Chosen doesn't go higher than 100. And provided I'll have a workshop by the time I get to switch.
With the threat of fire and my summons, the darkspawn are in a full on route. Just as well, there aren't all that many left. Still, I summon some more tigers and send them after them. It will also take care of those that instead of fleeing decided to try destabilizing the tunnel and bury me alive. Not that is likely to happen with me keeping my eye on them. Just to be sure, and to prevent any unfortunate collapses when my army marches over this spot, I activate my Mokuton Perk and use the sturdy wood to reinforce it all. Pity that I don't have any earth-creation Skill, just earth-shaping.
I fly back into the open air when my work is done, using more Mokuton and some of that earth-shaping to close the fissure back up. To my great satisfaction, my army is almost done as well, darkspawn corpses littering the ground in great numbers. Leaving my people to their battle, I focus on gathering and burning the corpses.
Once a great cheer reverberates though the battle field I count all my exp with glee. Still, the tunnel the darkspawn came from was heading east, towards Ostagar. If these skirmishes become frequent it might impact my schedule a bit. Then again, if I take care of them here, there will be less of them at the ancient Tevinter fortress. Unless of course they get reinforcements from deeper tunnels.
No matter, my plan is unchanged. Ostagar will be my capitol from which I will spread my influence all over Ferelden. And once repaired, looking forward to that, it will serve as a symbol of power to awe all that I bring here from other parts of Thedas. I need more people, builder, warriors, mages, healers, farmers, miners… I need them all. And a fortress like Ostagar will show them that they can risk throwing their lot with me.
Not that they would choose otherwise once my Mind Mage gets going…
Yes, once that fortress in mine, I can move onto more subtle work. More exciting too, plain battles are getting boring. The exp is nice but thanks to my secondary title I will be getting it no matter what.
Can't wait to fuck around that so-called Great Game.
Huh, just realized that DA calls this the Great Game and Game of Thrones, well, game of thrones. Whatever it's called, the only game that matters now is my own.
Notes:
AN: Edited in a hurry, hopefully it came out alright...