Javier chuckled bitterly.
"The cold outdoors is a lot better than dealing with the pompous lot who think they're better than you, putting on airs and then when things get down to it, run like cowards and hide behind their men and shields. I'm not saying there's nobles who can't pull their weight... but they aren't the sort who'd show up at the University.. or at least not those who'd pick fights and not finish them."
At the mention of the rest of the company, Javier frowned. "Probably either dead, or they've run off to Antiva, maybe Tevinter with the money. Least I know, we didn't run into them during the time of the Inquisition in Orlais or Ferelden."
The bitterness in his tone was evident and he gazed out of the cave. "Did you find anything interesting in the Fade? Percival mentioned you found information."
"The cold outdoors is a lot better than dealing with the pompous lot who think they're better than you, putting on airs and then when things get down to it, run like cowards and hide behind their men and shields. I'm not saying there's nobles who can't pull their weight... but they aren't the sort who'd show up at the University.. or at least not those who'd pick fights and not finish them."
At the mention of the rest of the company, Javier frowned. "Probably either dead, or they've run off to Antiva, maybe Tevinter with the money. Least I know, we didn't run into them during the time of the Inquisition in Orlais or Ferelden."
The bitterness in his tone was evident and he gazed out of the cave. "Did you find anything interesting in the Fade? Percival mentioned you found information."
The sacrificial lamb... abandoned by his fellows then. She didn't fault him the bitterness in his voice. She wanted to ask more, learn more, but when Javier changed the topic, she sensed now was not the best time to pry. Selora nodded in the affirmative.
"The Venatori were here for an artifact which they looted from the Dalish graveyard. It seems to be something of great power judging by the impression it's having in the Fade." She answered him. "There's numerous Rage demons about as well, spawned by the desecration of said graveyard."
She took a brief sip from her waterskin.
"I secured an ally in a Spirit of Justice; our role in the deal is to destroy these Venatori and avenge the wrong done to the elves. In return, Justice has promised it's aid against the Pride Demon. For that beast, we can use all the help we can get." Selora looked to Javier again. "And a Desire Demon attempted to slip into my skin with the usual honeyed promises. As you can see, I'm not an abomination, so it failed."
Even if the vision had been tempting.
"I couldn't get too close to the Venatori camp, lest I alert the Pride Demon, even in the Fade. I would expect, when the time comes, we'll see those Rage Demons breach the veil. Undead are also a possibility, given the number of corpses about."
"The Venatori were here for an artifact which they looted from the Dalish graveyard. It seems to be something of great power judging by the impression it's having in the Fade." She answered him. "There's numerous Rage demons about as well, spawned by the desecration of said graveyard."
She took a brief sip from her waterskin.
"I secured an ally in a Spirit of Justice; our role in the deal is to destroy these Venatori and avenge the wrong done to the elves. In return, Justice has promised it's aid against the Pride Demon. For that beast, we can use all the help we can get." Selora looked to Javier again. "And a Desire Demon attempted to slip into my skin with the usual honeyed promises. As you can see, I'm not an abomination, so it failed."
Even if the vision had been tempting.
"I couldn't get too close to the Venatori camp, lest I alert the Pride Demon, even in the Fade. I would expect, when the time comes, we'll see those Rage Demons breach the veil. Undead are also a possibility, given the number of corpses about."
Javier frowned thoughtfully as the mage spoke about the artifact, worry clouding over his expression when Selora spoke about a desire demon.
"I'm glad it failed. I'd hardly like to have ended your life... and I can't imagine having to suffer Percival alone," he said with a grin.
"Am I really that detestable?" Percival's voice rang out as he returned from his morning rounds with a sigh as he sat down. The chevalier sat down away from the group, taking out his journal to write quietly in it.
"I... I apologise Percival, it was said in jest," Javier said looking guilty. The warrior just waved him off.
Percival would insist that Selora not take any watchs, especially with the demons around. He withdrew to tend to his journal most of the time, not really wanting to speak to any of them. Friendship didnt really form for him around this group and he had given up trying.
It would be about a day or two more before two wardens' forward scouts appeared at their camp site, although two of them would show up in the middle of the night on Lucius' watch.
"I'm glad it failed. I'd hardly like to have ended your life... and I can't imagine having to suffer Percival alone," he said with a grin.
"Am I really that detestable?" Percival's voice rang out as he returned from his morning rounds with a sigh as he sat down. The chevalier sat down away from the group, taking out his journal to write quietly in it.
"I... I apologise Percival, it was said in jest," Javier said looking guilty. The warrior just waved him off.
Percival would insist that Selora not take any watchs, especially with the demons around. He withdrew to tend to his journal most of the time, not really wanting to speak to any of them. Friendship didnt really form for him around this group and he had given up trying.
It would be about a day or two more before two wardens' forward scouts appeared at their camp site, although two of them would show up in the middle of the night on Lucius' watch.
Friendship with Percival would have been difficult for Selora to form; he was human and Orlesian, two factors which historically did not bode well for her as an elf. She was hardly a racial purist on such matters but she'd heard tales of the alienage in Val Royeaux. They made the one in Denerim sound like a coastal villa. He'd proven himself reliable thus far, however, which did allow Selora to have a developed sense of respect for the Chevalier. Still... she idly wondered if he was one of those Chevalier's who, upon attaining the rank, had decided to drunkenly test his blade on the elves of a city. It had happened in the past with others.
Not trust. Not friendship. But respect, yes.
She put little concern into thoughts of any hurt feelings Percival might have. The Venatori were a much greater threat and the common foe that united the four together. She spent the time waiting in reading and otherwise making herself useful but there wasn't much for a mage to do without being allowed to take a watch. On one hand, Percival's caution was understandable, and on the other, it was frustrating. There were always demons about for any mage and the higher concentration here wasn't unusual to find when a site was more active for whatever reason. Selora surmised that explanation would hardly make her companions feel better though and so allowed Percival to have his way on the matter without argument.
Lucius was a professional soldier and the Warden scouts would find him awake and alert. It wasn't impossible to sneak up on him, if they tried, though such an approach would have the man drawing his sword until the scouts could be verified. Otherwise, Lucius would greet them quietly then wake Selora, Percival, and Javier in that order. Despite his dour and oft silent nature, Lucius preferred the Chevalier over the young Warden and his mage charge. It still wasn't friendship, Tevinter and Orlais had quite a history, but a quiet sort of commiseration was fitting.
Selora had told Javier everything pertinent that she'd learned and let the Warden and Percival deal with informing the scouts. She was looking forward to seeing Skaldrin again as well; she'd developed a liking for the dwarf in spite of herself. The Wardens, she realized, were slowly growing on her in general. She hoped they would all survive the coming battle.
Not trust. Not friendship. But respect, yes.
She put little concern into thoughts of any hurt feelings Percival might have. The Venatori were a much greater threat and the common foe that united the four together. She spent the time waiting in reading and otherwise making herself useful but there wasn't much for a mage to do without being allowed to take a watch. On one hand, Percival's caution was understandable, and on the other, it was frustrating. There were always demons about for any mage and the higher concentration here wasn't unusual to find when a site was more active for whatever reason. Selora surmised that explanation would hardly make her companions feel better though and so allowed Percival to have his way on the matter without argument.
Lucius was a professional soldier and the Warden scouts would find him awake and alert. It wasn't impossible to sneak up on him, if they tried, though such an approach would have the man drawing his sword until the scouts could be verified. Otherwise, Lucius would greet them quietly then wake Selora, Percival, and Javier in that order. Despite his dour and oft silent nature, Lucius preferred the Chevalier over the young Warden and his mage charge. It still wasn't friendship, Tevinter and Orlais had quite a history, but a quiet sort of commiseration was fitting.
Selora had told Javier everything pertinent that she'd learned and let the Warden and Percival deal with informing the scouts. She was looking forward to seeing Skaldrin again as well; she'd developed a liking for the dwarf in spite of herself. The Wardens, she realized, were slowly growing on her in general. She hoped they would all survive the coming battle.
The scouts wouldn't sneak up. You do not sneak up on allies if you valued your life. Javier would awaken along with Percival, and while neither were happy to have their sleep interrupted. Selora could continue wandering if Percival did test his blade... it was a question that would never be answered, but he hadn't seemed that fond of elves previously.
"We've set up camp a while back, far away enough not to attract attention. It's a good bit of travel though and we'll have to move tonight if we want to reach there at day time," one of the scouts said. Percival nodded his head and started getting things ready. It didn't matter if it was the middle of the night. Perhaps they would have proper supplies at least... and staying with an encampment was safer than being out here, although the rest were welcomed to stay if they wanted.
The camp was fairly decent sized... although there were a lot less than what the Chevalier had hoped in terms of numbers. Five Wardens and three regiments of Orlesian soldiers led by their Commander, Ser Aria. Aria was known to have served under Gaspard's banner although now she wore the the symbol of House Valmont.
Skaldrin was among the wardens who had arrived.
"Morning," he'd greet from his height. "A couple of the scouts have gone off to keep an eye on the Venatori. Did you learn anything new?"
If anyone looked at Percival, while he looked relieved when he saw the Orlesian banners, his expression turned somewhat sour on seeing Skaldrin. What's with the wardens sending all sorts of people?
"We've set up camp a while back, far away enough not to attract attention. It's a good bit of travel though and we'll have to move tonight if we want to reach there at day time," one of the scouts said. Percival nodded his head and started getting things ready. It didn't matter if it was the middle of the night. Perhaps they would have proper supplies at least... and staying with an encampment was safer than being out here, although the rest were welcomed to stay if they wanted.
The camp was fairly decent sized... although there were a lot less than what the Chevalier had hoped in terms of numbers. Five Wardens and three regiments of Orlesian soldiers led by their Commander, Ser Aria. Aria was known to have served under Gaspard's banner although now she wore the the symbol of House Valmont.
Skaldrin was among the wardens who had arrived.
"Morning," he'd greet from his height. "A couple of the scouts have gone off to keep an eye on the Venatori. Did you learn anything new?"
If anyone looked at Percival, while he looked relieved when he saw the Orlesian banners, his expression turned somewhat sour on seeing Skaldrin. What's with the wardens sending all sorts of people?
Selora wasn't one to be left behind. She'd travel with the rest. At night, her elven vision was sharper than a humans as well, which could prove useful. It was also one more thing that set her apart as her eyes reflected light, like a wild animals, when a fire or torch shone on them just right. She traveled lightly for a diplomatic envoy, a learned trait for sure, and was able to be ready to go in short order.
There were fewer soldiers than she would have liked as well but it would have to be enough. The Pride Demon was powerful and the soldiers would have to make up what they lacked in raw strength with numbers. She was unfamiliar with Ser Aria, having been in Tevinter for much of the Orlesian Civil War, and didn't specifically know which side the woman had previously fought for. She did recognize the sigil of House Valmont, however.
"Skaldrin." Selora greeted the dwarf when she saw him, pleased by his presence. "We've managed to learn a touch more but the situation is still a curious one."
With Javier, she'd update the dwarf on her findings in the Fade. Most importantly, that the Venatori were apparently in command of a magical artifact which was having an adverse effect on the Fade. Selora did catch Percival's look and once more found herself vacillating on the man; considering Orlais had requested aid, he seemed rather selective about who the Wardens sent. No matter.
"The most difficult part of this will be the open ground around the Venatori. They'll have mages, I guarantee, and that makes an open field a killing ground." Fireballs, ice storms, magic would devastate any force that openly charged. "Though being Tevinter cultists, I presume they're predominantly human. That means their night sight will be poorer. We should use that to our advantage in timing our attack."
There were fewer soldiers than she would have liked as well but it would have to be enough. The Pride Demon was powerful and the soldiers would have to make up what they lacked in raw strength with numbers. She was unfamiliar with Ser Aria, having been in Tevinter for much of the Orlesian Civil War, and didn't specifically know which side the woman had previously fought for. She did recognize the sigil of House Valmont, however.
"Skaldrin." Selora greeted the dwarf when she saw him, pleased by his presence. "We've managed to learn a touch more but the situation is still a curious one."
With Javier, she'd update the dwarf on her findings in the Fade. Most importantly, that the Venatori were apparently in command of a magical artifact which was having an adverse effect on the Fade. Selora did catch Percival's look and once more found herself vacillating on the man; considering Orlais had requested aid, he seemed rather selective about who the Wardens sent. No matter.
"The most difficult part of this will be the open ground around the Venatori. They'll have mages, I guarantee, and that makes an open field a killing ground." Fireballs, ice storms, magic would devastate any force that openly charged. "Though being Tevinter cultists, I presume they're predominantly human. That means their night sight will be poorer. We should use that to our advantage in timing our attack."
Javier would excuse himself once the updates had been given. The boy was exhausted and he just found a spot to rest next to the camp fire and fell asleep without even bothering with his bedroll. One of the other wardens would cover a blanket over him.
The Orlesians kept mostly to themselves, as did the Wardens. Neither side liked to interact with each other and some warriors wore their disdain for other races clearly, more so when Percival updated them on his companions. Ser Aria on the other hand, was diplomatic, though not overtly friendly.
Skaldrin frowned as he listened to the updates, more so on the matter of an open field.
"Aye that is a problem. Its possible we can lure them to the trees but engaging them on an open field might be problematic."
Ser Aria didn't look that pleased either at the news. She'd pull out a map, laying it on the floor, marking out where the Venatori was spotted, and their location. Of all the places the Venatori had taken a good spot. They knew what they were doing.
"A killing ground indeed," she mused thoughtfully. "While I appreciate your suggestion Lady Selora, my men are suited for nighttime warfare... and we're the ones with the numbers. At most I count three elves, yourself included," she said gesturing to two of the wardens huddled around the Wardens' campfire. "Thinking practically, it might be better if we can lure the demon away... but... that would be dangerous for whoever is being a distraction but my men would be more than willing if I sent one group to do it while we ambush them. As for the artifact... I am under no orders to recover it, just to ensure that the lands are safe."
Skaldrin nodded his head. "Its possible the wardens can lure them, given their better eyesight, and the rest can stay among the trees," the dwarf said pointing to the map. Lady Selora... is the artifact worth saving?"
The Orlesians kept mostly to themselves, as did the Wardens. Neither side liked to interact with each other and some warriors wore their disdain for other races clearly, more so when Percival updated them on his companions. Ser Aria on the other hand, was diplomatic, though not overtly friendly.
Skaldrin frowned as he listened to the updates, more so on the matter of an open field.
"Aye that is a problem. Its possible we can lure them to the trees but engaging them on an open field might be problematic."
Ser Aria didn't look that pleased either at the news. She'd pull out a map, laying it on the floor, marking out where the Venatori was spotted, and their location. Of all the places the Venatori had taken a good spot. They knew what they were doing.
"A killing ground indeed," she mused thoughtfully. "While I appreciate your suggestion Lady Selora, my men are suited for nighttime warfare... and we're the ones with the numbers. At most I count three elves, yourself included," she said gesturing to two of the wardens huddled around the Wardens' campfire. "Thinking practically, it might be better if we can lure the demon away... but... that would be dangerous for whoever is being a distraction but my men would be more than willing if I sent one group to do it while we ambush them. As for the artifact... I am under no orders to recover it, just to ensure that the lands are safe."
Skaldrin nodded his head. "Its possible the wardens can lure them, given their better eyesight, and the rest can stay among the trees," the dwarf said pointing to the map. Lady Selora... is the artifact worth saving?"
Luring them away might also subject a much smaller party to Rage Demon reinforcements. The fate of Orlesian soldiers wasn't Selora's utmost concern but she did feel she had an obligation to at least look after the Wardens. Thinking practically, having at least one elf mage being able to see the enemy without said enemy seeing them, seemed a thing to take advantage of. Ultimately, it wasn't her call.
"Whoever lures the Pride Demon away, assuming it works, may also face a number of Rage Demons." Selora said aloud, more for Skaldrin's benefit than anything. "I'll be happy to lend my magic to the Wardens cause if they're taking on that task."
And because she trusted the Wardens more than the Orlesians to not accidentally have a spear find its way between her shoulder blades. She nodded to Skaldrin in response to his other question, about the artifact.
"Save it if possible. We may be able to use it. If not, it's one more casualty and the enemy is at least denied its use."
"Whoever lures the Pride Demon away, assuming it works, may also face a number of Rage Demons." Selora said aloud, more for Skaldrin's benefit than anything. "I'll be happy to lend my magic to the Wardens cause if they're taking on that task."
And because she trusted the Wardens more than the Orlesians to not accidentally have a spear find its way between her shoulder blades. She nodded to Skaldrin in response to his other question, about the artifact.
"Save it if possible. We may be able to use it. If not, it's one more casualty and the enemy is at least denied its use."
Skaldrin and Ser Aria listened and made plans. The suggestion for the wardens to lure the demon and Venatori towards the rest of the army waited was planned.
"The trees should hinder its movement... although it will do the for us, we'll just have to make this work," Skaldrin muttered as he took a look at the map.
"Lady Selora, if you and your companion are willing to play bait your help on the field is welcomed. At dawn we move swiftly to get into position," Skaldrin said before heading over to the rest of the wardens.
"We move swiftly at dawn. We're the bait, lure them to the trees, then let the killing begin. Your only instructions, get out of it alive. There's an elven artifact that's worth saving if we can but not at the cost of each of your lives. We don't have that many wardens to spare. There's six of us and I want all six of us to get back alive." Javier, himself, a Dalish mage and rogue with the same vallaslin of Andruil, a human mage and a dwarven warrior.
The wardens listened although Javier just slept through the whole thing. The Wardens let him be and cleared some space for Selora and Lucius if he wanted. Both warden and Orlesian camps would be mostly silent, the quiet before the storm. There was some time to chat if Selora wanted before the fight.
Their animals would be stationed nearby, a pack of horses and one halla, grazing.
"The trees should hinder its movement... although it will do the for us, we'll just have to make this work," Skaldrin muttered as he took a look at the map.
"Lady Selora, if you and your companion are willing to play bait your help on the field is welcomed. At dawn we move swiftly to get into position," Skaldrin said before heading over to the rest of the wardens.
"We move swiftly at dawn. We're the bait, lure them to the trees, then let the killing begin. Your only instructions, get out of it alive. There's an elven artifact that's worth saving if we can but not at the cost of each of your lives. We don't have that many wardens to spare. There's six of us and I want all six of us to get back alive." Javier, himself, a Dalish mage and rogue with the same vallaslin of Andruil, a human mage and a dwarven warrior.
The wardens listened although Javier just slept through the whole thing. The Wardens let him be and cleared some space for Selora and Lucius if he wanted. Both warden and Orlesian camps would be mostly silent, the quiet before the storm. There was some time to chat if Selora wanted before the fight.
Their animals would be stationed nearby, a pack of horses and one halla, grazing.
"My staff is at your disposal." Selora gave Skaldrin a quirk of a smile. "As is Lucius' sword."
The Tevinter warrior looked less thrilled but he was also a person of logistics. With the Wardens in the same battle, it gave the demon or demons more targets. For their power, Rage demons were dumb, and the Pride demon was as susceptible to being slain as the next monster. Pride was just tougher.
Selora was less comfortable around the Dalish Wardens, neither snubbing them nor seeking their company. Once, the Dalish had seemed almost legendary... mythical even. City Elves were told of their feral kin in stories straight from a fantasy tale. The mage knew better; they were living beings like any other. She was suddenly self-conscious of the faded remains of semi-Dalish markings on her cheeks. Mythal, she'd been told they represented.
It was nice having three mages however.
Selora opted to sit nearest Skaldrin at the Warden camp. Lucius picked a spot near the warriors and began sharpening his blade with a whetstone. Selora sipped some of her water and mentally checked off a list of preparations. The vial holding what was left of the lyrium was moved to a holder where it could be quickly, and easily, reached.
"Take care during the battle." Selora spoke quietly to the Dwarven Warden. "Orlesian pride has already been wounded by asking for aid in this matter. If we are too weakened or injured, our Orlesian allies may try to finish us off. The lure of magical treasure can be enticing and there's at least one Desire demon lurking nearby."
The Tevinter warrior looked less thrilled but he was also a person of logistics. With the Wardens in the same battle, it gave the demon or demons more targets. For their power, Rage demons were dumb, and the Pride demon was as susceptible to being slain as the next monster. Pride was just tougher.
Selora was less comfortable around the Dalish Wardens, neither snubbing them nor seeking their company. Once, the Dalish had seemed almost legendary... mythical even. City Elves were told of their feral kin in stories straight from a fantasy tale. The mage knew better; they were living beings like any other. She was suddenly self-conscious of the faded remains of semi-Dalish markings on her cheeks. Mythal, she'd been told they represented.
It was nice having three mages however.
Selora opted to sit nearest Skaldrin at the Warden camp. Lucius picked a spot near the warriors and began sharpening his blade with a whetstone. Selora sipped some of her water and mentally checked off a list of preparations. The vial holding what was left of the lyrium was moved to a holder where it could be quickly, and easily, reached.
"Take care during the battle." Selora spoke quietly to the Dwarven Warden. "Orlesian pride has already been wounded by asking for aid in this matter. If we are too weakened or injured, our Orlesian allies may try to finish us off. The lure of magical treasure can be enticing and there's at least one Desire demon lurking nearby."
Skaldrin appreciated Selora's presence, sharing some of his food with her. Fresh biscuits with some butter, better than the trail rations that had been having. Funnily enough, the Dalish duo kept to themselves, speaking mostly in elven and the rest of the Wardens let them be.
"I doubt they would be that daring, but I shall brief the others on it nevertheless. There's more than one senior warden on this assignment now and Commander Vimes will not take kindly to losing any of us. We're as broken and small as we already are, the events at Adamant not helping with our numbers in either Ferelden or Orlais. The Dalish and the mage were what the Orlesian Wardens could offer. They too are building. I'm afraid the Commander could only spare me and Jeram from the Keep.
Hell even our senior warden status aren't really... well we were but fairly new to the order and after Clariel's stunt, Vimes just picked from the longest serving to be termed senior wardens. That being said, he was rather certain that between the two of us, we could take down the demon. I'm not certain if I have his confidence but I do know between Jeram and I, we'd deal enough damage for them to think twice on showing their faces around."
The fighting prowess of the Wardens were legendary after all and it wasn't just their training. The Taint within them imbued them with a constitution that few could rival.
"If its a spot for demons ha... I'd just run them through with my sword. I doubt they'd have any interested in our sort... but it seems that you've been having an interesting scouting mission. We best get a good bit of rest before we head of. Its a travel, then a fight. Let's hope the Orlesians can keep up with us."
"I doubt they would be that daring, but I shall brief the others on it nevertheless. There's more than one senior warden on this assignment now and Commander Vimes will not take kindly to losing any of us. We're as broken and small as we already are, the events at Adamant not helping with our numbers in either Ferelden or Orlais. The Dalish and the mage were what the Orlesian Wardens could offer. They too are building. I'm afraid the Commander could only spare me and Jeram from the Keep.
Hell even our senior warden status aren't really... well we were but fairly new to the order and after Clariel's stunt, Vimes just picked from the longest serving to be termed senior wardens. That being said, he was rather certain that between the two of us, we could take down the demon. I'm not certain if I have his confidence but I do know between Jeram and I, we'd deal enough damage for them to think twice on showing their faces around."
The fighting prowess of the Wardens were legendary after all and it wasn't just their training. The Taint within them imbued them with a constitution that few could rival.
"If its a spot for demons ha... I'd just run them through with my sword. I doubt they'd have any interested in our sort... but it seems that you've been having an interesting scouting mission. We best get a good bit of rest before we head of. Its a travel, then a fight. Let's hope the Orlesians can keep up with us."
Selora had no premonition of the Orlesians turning against them but was glad enough Skaldrin took the idea seriously. She wasn't in Tevinter anymore, of course, and the southern national did things differently. Humans were humans, however, and by and large they were a treacherous race. She'd rather deal with them than the Qunari but only by a little. Of course, even worse, some humans were qunari as well.
The upcoming battle didn't involve the ox-men, it involved demons. Selora enjoyed the shared food, feeling much better for the change of fare. She passed a few more pleasantries with the dwarven warden but soon set up her wards so she could rest in peace before the battle.
The upcoming battle didn't involve the ox-men, it involved demons. Selora enjoyed the shared food, feeling much better for the change of fare. She passed a few more pleasantries with the dwarven warden but soon set up her wards so she could rest in peace before the battle.
Selora would be awakened before dawn came. The army was getting ready to move and they would just travel lightly on their mounts. There were a number of foot soldiers but each of the wardens had horses. The movement was swift, and yet quiet, although they'd make their way to where the previous outpost had been. From there the wardens split forth, moving ahead.
"We'll have to keep the fight for a bit before faking a retreat, give the rest of the army some time to catch up." Or be left to hung dry.... Skaldrin left that part out.
Thankfully when they neared the treeline, the Venatori were busy with their own things. Mostly because the Pride demon was swatting one of them and their mages were desperately trying to get it under control. The warriors dismounted and the wardens hid under the foliage, watching the scene unfold.
"Looks like luck is on our side. If we can strike the mages, they'll never get it under control fast enough... then we'll all have to dodge it, them included," Skaldrin said with a smile. The warriors got their shields ready, glancing at the rest. Javier had dismounted but the other rogue remained on horseback.
"Charge!" was all the dwarven fellow said as he broke into a sprint.
An arrows flew through the air towards the Venatori camp, striking one down as it found its mark. Even if the fellow wasn't dead, they definitely couldn't contribute to the fight that much. Unless they were a mage of course. Confused angry cries filled the air as the Venatori realised they were under attack and they turned to see a small group of wardens charging towards them. Close to fifteen Venatori and a pride demon, against a group of six wardens and two tevinters. The odds really didn't look that good.
The mages were busy slinging fireballs towards the venatori, although it seemed more of haphazard fighting than anything else. They were not used to working together as a unit after all. Jeram and Skaldrin on the other hand, were a pair to behold.
The two dwarves charged into the fray, yelling and taunting the men and women towards them, blades slashing left and right. It was easy to see they knew each other's styles well enough to cover. Where Skaldrin struck low, Jeram struck high. Javier himself picked the edges, working on the mages where he could. They were the first priority. The archer on horseback, rode around the edges, using the advantage of his swift mount to fire shots left and right.
Conversely, despite the Pride demon acting up, the Venatori had grown used to each other. Several of the mages broke away, working on their spells as the group charged towards them. Two remained to try and control the demon, three began their spell casting.
Fire and ice rained down upon the charging wardens, with Skaldrin and Jeram taking most of the hits. They were seasoned protectors, moving and watching the battlefield like sharks.
Selora, whether on horseback or not, would be set upon by Stalker that struck from the shadows where she had hidden herself, aiming to land a strike upon the elven mage. Lucius would find himself engaged with a Gladiator who swung their mace towards the warrior.
"We'll have to keep the fight for a bit before faking a retreat, give the rest of the army some time to catch up." Or be left to hung dry.... Skaldrin left that part out.
Thankfully when they neared the treeline, the Venatori were busy with their own things. Mostly because the Pride demon was swatting one of them and their mages were desperately trying to get it under control. The warriors dismounted and the wardens hid under the foliage, watching the scene unfold.
"Looks like luck is on our side. If we can strike the mages, they'll never get it under control fast enough... then we'll all have to dodge it, them included," Skaldrin said with a smile. The warriors got their shields ready, glancing at the rest. Javier had dismounted but the other rogue remained on horseback.
"Charge!" was all the dwarven fellow said as he broke into a sprint.
An arrows flew through the air towards the Venatori camp, striking one down as it found its mark. Even if the fellow wasn't dead, they definitely couldn't contribute to the fight that much. Unless they were a mage of course. Confused angry cries filled the air as the Venatori realised they were under attack and they turned to see a small group of wardens charging towards them. Close to fifteen Venatori and a pride demon, against a group of six wardens and two tevinters. The odds really didn't look that good.
The mages were busy slinging fireballs towards the venatori, although it seemed more of haphazard fighting than anything else. They were not used to working together as a unit after all. Jeram and Skaldrin on the other hand, were a pair to behold.
The two dwarves charged into the fray, yelling and taunting the men and women towards them, blades slashing left and right. It was easy to see they knew each other's styles well enough to cover. Where Skaldrin struck low, Jeram struck high. Javier himself picked the edges, working on the mages where he could. They were the first priority. The archer on horseback, rode around the edges, using the advantage of his swift mount to fire shots left and right.
Conversely, despite the Pride demon acting up, the Venatori had grown used to each other. Several of the mages broke away, working on their spells as the group charged towards them. Two remained to try and control the demon, three began their spell casting.
Fire and ice rained down upon the charging wardens, with Skaldrin and Jeram taking most of the hits. They were seasoned protectors, moving and watching the battlefield like sharks.
Selora, whether on horseback or not, would be set upon by Stalker that struck from the shadows where she had hidden herself, aiming to land a strike upon the elven mage. Lucius would find himself engaged with a Gladiator who swung their mace towards the warrior.
The Stalker came out of nowhere and only Selora's barrier kept it from being the end of her worldly troubles. It was always understated how dangerous one person could be with a knife if they snuck up on their victim. There was no time to spare and Selora lashed out with her magic, time doing that odd dream walking sensation, as she instantly deprived the area around the Venatori assassin of warmth. Ice crystals formed in the air around him and inside the blood within his body, damaging organs, veins, and arteries as the man flash froze in the blink of an eye. A follow up swing of her staff sent a bolt of magical energy blasting through the assassin's torso with a slushy explosion of frozen blood out his back. A gaping, ogre-fist sized hole hung ragged in the man's body, shattered bits of spine and internal organs littering the ground behind him in the bolts blast path, thawing slowly.
Lucius was a seasoned warrior and didn't try to absorb all the impact of the mace with his shield, a move which surely would have shattered his arm. He turned the blow aside, metal ringing on metal, and got in close. With his fist balled around the hilt of his sword, Lucius smashed the butt of the weapon into the Venatori warrior's armored face. The steel surrounding the Tevinter cultist rang like a bell, disorienting the man inside. Lucius capitalized on the opportunity, before the man could regain his senses, to deliver a sword strike into the vulnerable underarm where the armor didn't cover. Red arterial blood began to spill out as the enemy's life rapidly bled away.
Selora saw the three mages attacking the Wardens as well as the two still struggling to control the Pride Demon... she had to do something about the former before they decimated the fighters.
Lucius was a seasoned warrior and didn't try to absorb all the impact of the mace with his shield, a move which surely would have shattered his arm. He turned the blow aside, metal ringing on metal, and got in close. With his fist balled around the hilt of his sword, Lucius smashed the butt of the weapon into the Venatori warrior's armored face. The steel surrounding the Tevinter cultist rang like a bell, disorienting the man inside. Lucius capitalized on the opportunity, before the man could regain his senses, to deliver a sword strike into the vulnerable underarm where the armor didn't cover. Red arterial blood began to spill out as the enemy's life rapidly bled away.
Selora saw the three mages attacking the Wardens as well as the two still struggling to control the Pride Demon... she had to do something about the former before they decimated the fighters.
It was a bloodied spectacle really. Skaldrin and Jeram lead a tactical retreat in a way, drawing the Venatori towards the treeline. When they drew close enough, the trees exploded with the soldiers, running forth.
At that point the Venatori mages had given up trying to control the demon. It was far too enraged at this point and it broke free of their controls, earning a scream as it extended electrical whips about the battlefield. Of course the Venator mages got hit easily, and they were sent sprawling somewhat away.
The tide of the battle seemed to turn a little favourable at this point...
But the use of magic wore at reality. A slight crack into the Fade and that was all was needed to draw several more rage demons through. Coupled with the anger the Pride demon had, suddenly it seemed a lot more worse. Credit had to be given to the Orlesian army because while they balked slightly, with a cry from Ser Aria, they surged forward again, the sound of steel ringing about the field as opponents clashed into each other.
It was hard to keep track of allies on the battlefield, and those in the thick of it would have trouble keeping track of the archers and rogues at the side as people and demons flooded the battlefield.
The Pride Demon's whip cut through friend and foe alike and there was a cry as Skaldrin took a hit on his shield from the whip, and he staggered from the impact and electricity.
At that point the Venatori mages had given up trying to control the demon. It was far too enraged at this point and it broke free of their controls, earning a scream as it extended electrical whips about the battlefield. Of course the Venator mages got hit easily, and they were sent sprawling somewhat away.
The tide of the battle seemed to turn a little favourable at this point...
But the use of magic wore at reality. A slight crack into the Fade and that was all was needed to draw several more rage demons through. Coupled with the anger the Pride demon had, suddenly it seemed a lot more worse. Credit had to be given to the Orlesian army because while they balked slightly, with a cry from Ser Aria, they surged forward again, the sound of steel ringing about the field as opponents clashed into each other.
It was hard to keep track of allies on the battlefield, and those in the thick of it would have trouble keeping track of the archers and rogues at the side as people and demons flooded the battlefield.
The Pride Demon's whip cut through friend and foe alike and there was a cry as Skaldrin took a hit on his shield from the whip, and he staggered from the impact and electricity.
It was turning into a complete melee; as Orlesians and demons filled the battlefield, there was no way Selora could rain down fire without also killing allied forces. A concern the Venatori didn't share though they had their own problems as the Pride Demon broke free. It was rather satisfying to watch it swat the cultists away like bugs but now it was a new threat.
Selora renewed her barrier and advanced with Lucius, raining down more accurate bolts of chain lightning as she did so. She primarily targeted archers on the sides or large groups of demons. The stink of ozone and sizzling flesh joined the scene. Selora kept behind the large man for cover while keeping her eyes open for flank attacks. A familiar cry far ahead, over the din of battle, caught her elven ears. He was engaged in battle with the massive whip-wielding monstrosity the Venatori would have mastered.
Selora clenched her fist and focused, channeling her mana into the image of the spell, then brought her hand down swiftly. The gesture was translated into a battering ram of pure force that struck downwards from above the Pride Demon. It struck like a catapult stone, likely not enough to kill the demon outright, but certainly injure and even perhaps stagger it. A reprieve so Skaldrin could recover.
Selora renewed her barrier and advanced with Lucius, raining down more accurate bolts of chain lightning as she did so. She primarily targeted archers on the sides or large groups of demons. The stink of ozone and sizzling flesh joined the scene. Selora kept behind the large man for cover while keeping her eyes open for flank attacks. A familiar cry far ahead, over the din of battle, caught her elven ears. He was engaged in battle with the massive whip-wielding monstrosity the Venatori would have mastered.
Selora clenched her fist and focused, channeling her mana into the image of the spell, then brought her hand down swiftly. The gesture was translated into a battering ram of pure force that struck downwards from above the Pride Demon. It struck like a catapult stone, likely not enough to kill the demon outright, but certainly injure and even perhaps stagger it. A reprieve so Skaldrin could recover.
The Pride demon stumbled from the hit Selora gave it, blinking about before it unleashed an irritated roar, sending another length of the whips flailing about the battlefield although this time, it struck its own Venatori allies... if they could even be considered allies to the demon. A rage demon went flying through the air into some of the Chevaliers but they recovered soon enough.
Compared to the Warden mages and Selora, the Venatori were a lot less cautious with their use of magic. Fire soon spread through the field. Javier ducked in and out where he could together with other warriors, but the field was soon ablaze and the heat would soon get to the men in armour.
Skaldrin appreciated the reprive and it wasn't long before he was back on his feet. Roaring at the Pride Demon, he caught its attention and struck at it.
Despite the heat and the flames, the Orlesians and wardens were slowly, but surely winning. The number of rage demons had dwindled and the Chevaliers lived up to their reputations elite troops, working together to cut down the Venatori and demons.
One of the Venatori mages had gotten hold of the heads of one of the living Chevalier warriors and was muttering a spell under his breath before sending him back towards the other warriors. If Selora heard... they were the mutterings of the spell for a walking bomb.
Compared to the Warden mages and Selora, the Venatori were a lot less cautious with their use of magic. Fire soon spread through the field. Javier ducked in and out where he could together with other warriors, but the field was soon ablaze and the heat would soon get to the men in armour.
Skaldrin appreciated the reprive and it wasn't long before he was back on his feet. Roaring at the Pride Demon, he caught its attention and struck at it.
Despite the heat and the flames, the Orlesians and wardens were slowly, but surely winning. The number of rage demons had dwindled and the Chevaliers lived up to their reputations elite troops, working together to cut down the Venatori and demons.
One of the Venatori mages had gotten hold of the heads of one of the living Chevalier warriors and was muttering a spell under his breath before sending him back towards the other warriors. If Selora heard... they were the mutterings of the spell for a walking bomb.
Sweat dotted Selora's forehead, a combination of the Venatori's fire and her own heart rate. They were winning; slowly but surely, they were winning. The Pride Demon was still active but Skaldrin was back in the fray, her admiration for his fighting skills only increasing. Selora was glad she was the dwarf's ally. It didn't seem to lead to a long life to be his enemy. She saw Javier as well and was glad the other Warden was also alive, the stealthy young man being harder to keep track of as he moved through the battle.
The question of what artifact the Venatori had was still unknown. It stood to reason it was by their main camp and Selora pointed in that direction to Lucius. He nodded and the pair began making their way along the edge of the battle towards it, and subsequently closer to where the Pride Demon was. She took great care to remain very aware of it's reach with those whips made of lightning, raining down destruction of her own on targets of opportunity.
She saw the Venatori mage casting his spell and heard enough of the incantation to recognize it. She frowned, aware of how much damage the magic was capable of inflicting. She'd met a Nevarren mage once who'd been a guest speaker at her Circle and who had demonstrated some of the magic of his craft. It had made an indelible impression on the then-young elf.
Selora concentrated again; she could do nothing about the magic that was likely now eating the Chevalier from the inside out. Dispelling others magic was not her best still. Force Magic, however, she was quite adept at. Her mana flowed even as she felt herself tiring from all the spell slinging. It wasn't a subtle spell; she created an area of much greater density in between the Venatori mage and his victim. Like gravity, it would begin to pull both men (and anyone else near them) towards it's center like a new sun. There, it would hopefully contain the damage when the Chevalier exploded. The other Orlesian soldiers nearby were hopefully strong enough, and far away enough, to not be pulled in themselves. She was as precise as possible.
The question of what artifact the Venatori had was still unknown. It stood to reason it was by their main camp and Selora pointed in that direction to Lucius. He nodded and the pair began making their way along the edge of the battle towards it, and subsequently closer to where the Pride Demon was. She took great care to remain very aware of it's reach with those whips made of lightning, raining down destruction of her own on targets of opportunity.
She saw the Venatori mage casting his spell and heard enough of the incantation to recognize it. She frowned, aware of how much damage the magic was capable of inflicting. She'd met a Nevarren mage once who'd been a guest speaker at her Circle and who had demonstrated some of the magic of his craft. It had made an indelible impression on the then-young elf.
Selora concentrated again; she could do nothing about the magic that was likely now eating the Chevalier from the inside out. Dispelling others magic was not her best still. Force Magic, however, she was quite adept at. Her mana flowed even as she felt herself tiring from all the spell slinging. It wasn't a subtle spell; she created an area of much greater density in between the Venatori mage and his victim. Like gravity, it would begin to pull both men (and anyone else near them) towards it's center like a new sun. There, it would hopefully contain the damage when the Chevalier exploded. The other Orlesian soldiers nearby were hopefully strong enough, and far away enough, to not be pulled in themselves. She was as precise as possible.
The Pride Demon had sustained quite a bit of damage by now, although it was still going strong. Arrows stuck out from its flank along with burns and ice marks, courtesy of the mages. By now most of the Venatori were dead, save a few lucky ones and all the rage demons had been sent back into the Fade.
Selora's spell worked in pulling the Chevalier close to the Venatori mage, who stared at Selora for a bit frowning. Her armour was Tevinter surely.
"You!" He protested before doing a spell to dispel her magic. Perhaps Selora might have recognised him as one of the delegates who had opposed her Master before? The man was quite upset at it, despite the chevalier walking bomb nearing him. A few other chevaliers were drawn into it before it was dispelled and they scooted away when they realised what was happening.
The mage angrily fired a fireball at her direction only for the spelled Chevalier to grapple with him to the ground. Seemed the man had enough sense to realise he was going to die and he was going to take the Venatori down with him.
The tents contained various trunks that would be hard to sort out, but funnily enough, as they neared, they'd see something stealthed moving about the trunks, examining them and searching, ignoring the entire battle.
Selora's spell worked in pulling the Chevalier close to the Venatori mage, who stared at Selora for a bit frowning. Her armour was Tevinter surely.
"You!" He protested before doing a spell to dispel her magic. Perhaps Selora might have recognised him as one of the delegates who had opposed her Master before? The man was quite upset at it, despite the chevalier walking bomb nearing him. A few other chevaliers were drawn into it before it was dispelled and they scooted away when they realised what was happening.
The mage angrily fired a fireball at her direction only for the spelled Chevalier to grapple with him to the ground. Seemed the man had enough sense to realise he was going to die and he was going to take the Venatori down with him.
The tents contained various trunks that would be hard to sort out, but funnily enough, as they neared, they'd see something stealthed moving about the trunks, examining them and searching, ignoring the entire battle.
Selora's robes and armor were certainly Tevinter; another reason to be careful as, in the thick of battle, one of the Chevaliers might 'mistake' her for a Venatori. Despite her elven features, which should obviously set her apart, it was possible. Her lips gave a grim smile when the mage shouted in outrage. Yes, her. One of those nobodies of the Imperium, a freed slave who'd never amount to much... it was a great party line up and until that freed slave was now ushering in one's destruction. The mage gave the doomed Chevalier mental praise for realizing what was happening to him and having the presence of mind to do his best to take the one who'd doomed him out in the process.
The fireball coming at her was a problem. Selora had to leap to one side, her barrier absorbing part of the energy from the blast, but she could feel soreness on her skin from where the flames had inflicted minor burns. She patted her robes to make sure no part of her was on fire and exhaled in relief. That would have been a poor way to go meet the Maker or whatever other deity claimed to run Thedas today.
Towards the trunks, as she and Lucius moved, Selora saw the flickers of a hidden person in there. She didn't know who... and she wasn't about to take a chance. She focused her magic, not trying to kill, but trying to encapsulate whoever was there in a barrier of ice so she could better determine friend or foe.
The fireball coming at her was a problem. Selora had to leap to one side, her barrier absorbing part of the energy from the blast, but she could feel soreness on her skin from where the flames had inflicted minor burns. She patted her robes to make sure no part of her was on fire and exhaled in relief. That would have been a poor way to go meet the Maker or whatever other deity claimed to run Thedas today.
Towards the trunks, as she and Lucius moved, Selora saw the flickers of a hidden person in there. She didn't know who... and she wasn't about to take a chance. She focused her magic, not trying to kill, but trying to encapsulate whoever was there in a barrier of ice so she could better determine friend or foe.