Post by Bou on Aug 26, 2012 15:49:25 GMT -5
Doing this for this game because... I... can! WWWYKI! Also because I cannot continue Shinji's journal for Fallout.
Dragon Age: Origins allow you to make your own character. The only time the character talks is through dialogue options that you get to pick. This leaves the thoughts and emotions of the character up to you. It's your avatar, more or less. I'll be doing it with my character, Caecilia. The actual diary is done in the font "Segoe Print" so it may help if you have the font, as you'll be able to see it.
Name: Caecilia Aeducan
Race: Dwarf
Note: This "diary" will include adventures added by mods. So, not material found in the source game. I'll also add in screenshots that I have taken, and that the game takes itself (during story segments) to add a bit of "flavor" to the journal. I'll put the pictures into Spoiler tags.
Entry One - A New Commander
Caecilia Aeducan. Commander. It has a nice ring to it, doesn't it? My father is the King of Orzammar and I've just been promoted as the newest Commander in the kingdom. Why do I not do my duty as a princess, you who have picked up this journal, may want to know? Dwarven society is different than human society, which you may or may not be accustomed to, depending on who you are. For my father may be king, it doesn't mean I, or either of my two brothers, will take his place on the throne when he passes. The assembly will decide who will replace him. But that is neither here nor there, my father is in great health and will remain that way for many more years to come, I am sure. Anyway, back to what I was going to say, I am a warrior, much like all of my kind. I do not sit idly, I reach out and seek glory for myself and I am honored by my father to be given the title Commander. My second, Gorim, will be escorting me today, as my father has allowed merchants to set up shop in the Diamond Quarter due to the occasion. I've always enjoyed Gorim's company, so I do not mind. I have several hours before I am to be needed at the feast, and Gorim mentioned that there is a Proving being held today in my honor. I believe we will go watch it.
On the way, I'll look at the shops, and see if anything interests me. I have enough to spend. Speaking of Gorim, I am always impressed with his fighting, but that should be expect. He is from the Warrior's Caste. I admire his skill with a sword and shield, it was a style I could not master. Blocking, parrying, and returning attacks at just the right moments did not suit me, so I decided to take up two-handed weapons when I began my training so long ago. Giant mauls, axes, and swords are more my style. You may think I'm brutish. I simply ask; what dwarf isn't? On our way out of the palace, a red-haired woman came out of my brother, Bhelen's room, and quickly darted back inside. Curious, I followed after her. She has a mark upon her face, meaning she is Casteless. I assume my brother has taken up with her. If she has a child by him, her rank of casteless will not matter, she will be moved into the palace and live life in luxury. She believed I was mad at her for seeing her. That's just silly. I told her it was quite alright, and she left. Judging by a note on my brother's desk, the woman's name is Rica.
Note #01 - A Letter From Rica
"My dearest Prince Bhelen,
You are too kind to me. I am a small and insignificant thing and I do not deserve your attention, but your willingness to tolerate my presence shows you to be a prince among men! I cannot thank you enough for the beautiful necklace you presented to me. I will cherish it always and I promise I will wear it at our next meeting. I know my gratitude means nothing to you but I must say again: Thank you. I will always be your humble and devoted servant.
--Yours truly, Rica."
Exiting the palace, I noticed Bruntin Vollney arguing with one of Orzammar's scholars. My natural curiosity forced me to butt in. Vollney was claiming that the scholar had written a book that slandered the Vollney name, claiming the man deserved to die for the "lies" he wrote about the Paragon, Vollney, which is a serious charge to make, and I was sure to tell him that. Paragon is the highest regard a dwarf can achieve, they are considered a walking Ancestor. Vollney claimed that the scholar wrote that Vollney was a fraud, but he misunderstands. The scholar simply wrote that Paragon Vollney achieved the status by a single vote, unlike my ancestor, Paragon Aeducan, who had no votes against them. Even more interesting, is that the single vote is written in the Shaperate that it was a vote of intimidation and bribery. Vollney doesn't like that history speaks ill of his ancestor, but he needs to face facts. The history is there, it is true, the scholar had not written any lies. Of course, when I agreed with the scholar, Vollney tried to turn it on me, saying I would think differently if he had written something slandering my name and house. I told him to shut up. He stormed off, demanding I not order him around like a peon. Gorim mentioned something interesting following that. Vollney doesn't realize just how little power his house holds. Gorim suggested killing him for his insolence. I had Gorim send an order out for Vollney's death, public, and to be known why. Gorim informed me that Vollney wouldn't live past the hour. The scholar thanked us as we took our leave.
Walking through the Diamond Quarter, I've never seen it so packed. Merchant stalls lined the street, selling the finest merchandise they could afford and nobles lined the streets talking. Clothing as much as two sovereigns at one stall. Though I must admit, I was tempted by the soft clothing. As a woman, I do still enjoy being comfortable when not swinging a sword around. I'll admit now, here in this journal, that I bought one or two. Gorim seemed be against me wearing such frilly things, but ah... They were so pretty. Even though I bought them, I couldn't wear them at the time. I had to spend the day stomping around in a traditional suit of armor. The day was going great until I ran into my brothers. Trian, specifically. Bhelen never bothered me the way Trian did. Trian, the oldest, had it in his fool mind that he was next in line for the throne, despite the way our society works, and as such has always acted like a complete ass. How so? He demanded I return to the palace and attend the feast long before I would even be needed there. He said it was disrespectful that I was out mingling, and even insulted Gorim while he was at it. I told him not to speak to Gorim in such a way. It didn't really go over well, he brought up that Gorim was of a lower house, and he speaks to him as he should, and once again demanded I return to the palace.
Keep barking orders, Trian. It was all I could muster to say, while being civil. Again, he insulted me. Saying that in the next days outing, where I would be commanding a small group, that he would be apologizing to the nobles for their children's death because of my incompetence, and once again, demanded I return to the palace. I could not help myself, so I told him to kiss my ass. "I'd advise you to watch that tongue, dear sibling. Father will not live forever." If he were not my brother, I would have struck him down for that threat against me. This was supposed to be an enjoyable day out. Further down, we bumped into a couple of Noble Hunters, as Gorim called them. Women who try to gain favor of a single noble man, in hopes of bearing a son and being brought up in the world, since the child gains the caste of the father. Since it adds new bodies to a house, it is mostly looked upon favorably by many nobles. I on the other hand do not like them. Up-jumped nobles only make the caste weaker, in my opinion. Gorim requested to run them off, they protested that they paid for the permits and have a right to be there. They forgot their place. I had him run them off.
The weapons merchant greeted us, saying it was an honor for me to be at his stall. As I stated a page or two back, I am a warrior, weapons will always intrigue me. Though, it seemed the man had been wanting to speak to me, but he dare not say anything until now. Gorim took offense to the way the man was acting, which I could not blame him for. Regardless, I asked Gorim to stand down. I agreed to hear the man out, in which he began to stutter and fall over his words. To say the least, my annoyance rose. Just spit it out. The man apparently had made a dagger for me, for my celebration day and sent it via a messenger. A messenger that my older brother, Trian, had thrown out of the palace. The man didn't know what offense the messenger caused, but had him beaten for it. Leave it to Trian. I asked him if I could see the dagger. It was quite the beautiful piece. Carefully made by the best, according to the man, over a period of two years just for this day. I can only imagine Trian saw it as a threat to his potential power, as rumors had already been flying about that the Assembly favored the middle child, that would be me, of the three Aeducan children. If he thinks it's a threat, then so be it. I'd wear the dagger proudly. Of course, the merchant thanked me for the honor, but Gorim and I both know, he was thanking me for all the sovereigns I'd be making him by wearing something of his craft. I tried to speak to another merchant, selling magical artifacts, but he seemed awestruck that one of the royal family was at his stall, and fainted on the spot. I had only wanted to speak to him and ask about his wares. Sometimes being of royal blood can be a tiresome task.
We were greeted by armed guards on our way to the Proving, apparently my father wants me escorted by a small unit, to prevent me from being harassed on my way through the commons. It's a bit silly, but I will comply with my father's wishes. I never tire of the Provings. Two warriors going at it, giving all they have until the other can no longer stand. It really gets the blood pumping, you know? As such, I decided to participate in the Provings myself. I know, I know. They were meant to be held in celebration of my promotion but I just couldn't resist joining the fray! My first opponent was Aller Bemot, a warrior trained in the same style as me. Either he was afraid to harm me, due to my royal status, or I was just that much better than him, the battle ended after a few swings of my giant hammer, with him getting only one, missed, swing in himself. He honored me by fighting, but I must say, I was somewhat disappointed. My next opponent is a woman by the name of Adal Helmi. A tenacious fighter according to the Proving Master. It's always nice to see another female on the field. Before the battle begin, she said I was her inspiration. I could only give my thanks. I had not expected that. Her style is quick. Using two daggers. It meant she had to get within my hammer's swing, but once in, she could do a number on me if she so chose to. I felt three hits against my armor in quick succession, knowing I needed to stun her, I used the point near the handle of my hammer to knock her off her feet and deliver a stunning blow while she was down. My strategy worked, but she returned to her feet, but another blow sent her back down to the Stone, where she stayed, unconscious.
My third opponent is a man by the name of Ser Blackstone, of the Warrior Caste and one who has attained glory in close combat in the Deep Roads. Though I have respect for him, his words before the bout put me in a bad mood. "This is your education, child. Try to learn as you bleed." Hmph. I could not bite my tongue and told him he would eat his words. Much like me, he uses a two-handed weapon. For today's battle, he chose an ax. I tried to knock him off his feet, much like I did against Adal, but he simply shrugged my blow off. Seems the head of my hammer would need to do all the talking. He returned the favor, swinging from side-to-side, his ax nicked against my armor. Gripping my hammer tightly with both hands, I stepped back and did a massive upward swing with it, It caught him under the chin and sent him sprawling the Stone. Frandlin Ivo is my final opponent. He had to go through many opponents to get here. Frandlin is a man who is a master of many different weapons and is said to never use the same tactics twice. According to Gorim, his house is inconsequential, but Frandlin may change that. I will gladly face him. He wished me glory, and I wished him to be as stone.
The battle commenced. Frandlin using a saw-bladed sword and shield in this battle. He blocked many of my attacks and tried to return with stabs and swings. Careful dodging kept me out of harm, though his blade did land against my armor several times. During a wild swing of mine that missed, Frandlin let out a fearsome yell. I will not lie, it sent a chill through me, and I believe it made me hesitant in my swings, not putting the full force of my might into it made them weaker. He swung that massive saw-blade towards my face, if I weren't trained, he would have gotten me, I held my hammer up, blocking it with the shaft, and when I pushed forward, he stumbled back, I took the opening, hitting him with the butt of my hammer, knocking him down, and then delivering a final blow to end the fight. The man is tough. I would gladly face him again. I was awarded the ceremonial helmet, issued by my father for the winner. I could not take it. It was not mine to take. I had the Proving Master send it to Frandlin Ivo. A warrior such as him deserved it more than I. Gorim congratulated me on my victories, and quipped that my opponents would be licking their wounds all evening. That certainly did pass the time. With the escort, we returned to the Diamond Quarter without incident and headed back to the palace for the feast.
As we entered where the feast was to take place, we both noticed the humans present. Grey Wardens, as Gorim said. That must mean the raid is no normal one. The Wardens being here can only mean a handful of things. Lord Dace asked me to speak with him. Due to the sound of his voice, it sounded rather important. I stepped closer to hear him out. He congratulated me on being promoted to commander, and said that along with my brother, who was also a commander, that it brought much honor to my house. I know he didn't call me over just to kiss my ass. Regardless, I thanked him. It seems he wants a favor. The Assembly is coming to a vote within a week that deals with the surface dwarves. Dwarves that leave for the surface world, are considered Casteless when they leave, so if they were want to come back... Well, they can't just go right back to their old Caste and home as they are lost to the Stone. I knew his interest wasn't because he felt sorry for them, and when I asked him why he had such an interest, he willingly admitted it. His wife has a cousin, a "useless sort" or so he claims. This cousin went to the surface, hoping to make his fortune on some venture, and went bust. Considering he forfeited the right to his Caste when he left, he cannot simply just come back home. He would be Casteless and have to live among them. He wants me to take up the cause, to speak up about it when my father presents me in front of the nobles. I told him I would take it under advisement.
I spoke briefly to one of the Grey Wardens. A tan-skinned man with a beard. He had been speaking with my father, and as always, father put me on a pedestal. Claiming me to be the most skilled warrior in all of House Aeducan. He told me of the Darkspawn's presence on the surface. We had noticed the Darkspawn was thinning slightly in the Deep Roads, but to go to the surface means a Blight is upon the surface lands. I asked the man if many dwarves were in the Wardens, he said that they used to be, but over the centuries as dwarves become less in population, so did they become less in the Wardens. A pity, according to this man, as Dwarves have the most experience fighting Darkspawn. Truth be told, I wish I could join the Wardens, but I doubt my father would be pleased with it. The man said he would speak to my father after tomorrow's battle on the matter. As I stepped away and turned around, I was met with an older woman, who called me a fool. It took all I had not to assault her for the insult. She then went onto my mother, claiming she would melt the Stone if she knew what I just did. Again, the urge to assault her was there. But I wanted to know what this old bat was talking about. She claims Lord dace is playing me false with his desire for the surface dwelling dwarves. He already told me his intentions. Could he be lying even through that? She had my attention then. Apparently Lord Dace backed the expedition that his wife's cousin had left on. This means he would be out of a substantial amount of money due to it going bust... The tricky bastard.
Of course, the surface guild has no way to repay the investment that Dace put into it, but does have several leading members who are descended from noble houses. Helmi, Bemot, and most notably... Aeducan. They would be forced to pay the kin debt if they were allowed to return. Dace would get his money back, as well as have a small victory in his hand for deceiving us all. I should march back over to Dace and plant my hammer into his face, but no... Politics is a bit different. I'll let him think he has me in his pocket. When presented with his question when my father presents me to the nobles, I'll shut it, and him, down. Approaching my father's throne, he was in discussions with Lord Bemot and another about something. I couldn't make out exactly what it was, but once he saw me, everything changed. He complimented me on how good I looked in my grandmother's honor, and was quite amused that I entered the Proving, saying that it's not like me to just sit idly by. He then presented me to the heads of the noble houses. As soon as my father asked who would like to know the prospect better, Dace spoke up, and asked his question of what I think of the surface dwellers, those lost to the Stone. I spoke up, they are less than men I said. Dace did not seem pleased as he walked away. My father presented me as Orzammar's newest commander, and said that on the following day, I would lead part of a mission to deliver a great blow to the Darkspawn in hopes to recover some of our most important mines, but also allows Duncan, head of Ferelden's Grey Wardens, to get far into the Deep Roads. Father then asked that I find my brother, Trian, and tell him he wishes to meet with him.
Seeking out Trian isn't something I would put on the top of my agenda, but if father wills it, I will do it. On the way out Dace asked me if I was proud of myself. With a smirk, I told him he was lucky I didn't kill him. It angered him. Good. He asked me if I had any idea who I was talking to. I asked him if he was the court jester. He claimed he would remember the insult. As if he could use it against me. After Dace stormed away, Gorim and I made our way to my brother's room. He was accompanied by our other brother still. Trian acknowledged that I was a commander now, but threw in the quip that it was only by name so far. Ignoring this bait, I told him father wanted to see him. He ordered Bhelen to stay behind and "stroke my ego" if he so pleased, and then ordered him to bed early. Bhelen seemed quite irritated with Trian. Usually he can handle him better than I. Bhelen also seemed quite serious as he said he had something to tell me that would me that would make me less fond of Trian. Bhelen claims that Trian does see me as a legitimate threat and due to his much-proclaimed honor, has moved against me in acts of jealousy. That he will try and kill me. It really seems far-fetched to me. Sure, we don't get along, but we are still family, no?
Bhelen claimed he wouldn't believe it himself, but had overheard Trian ordering men loyal to him. He thinks I'm a threat to his heir to the throne, apparently. Trian is the named prince, but the Assembly decides the next king, even if it goes against the current kings wishes. Bhelen tells us that at least a half-dozen times, the Assembly has named a lesser family member, or even someone from another house, as king. Twice, a woman. Trian believes the Assembly would choose me over him, due to the fact I'm more personable than he is, that I entered the Provings held in my name for glory and to please the crowds shows that, apparently. If I win glory against the Darkspawn tomorrow, it will strength my case. Trian fears that Father will replace him, and even if he doesn't, the Assembly will turn against him. Bhelen's words hold true, especially when he speaks that Trian's pride will never allow him to step aside. I asked for Bhelen's advice, but he had none, only saying that as the elder, he'll follow my lead as he always has. It's all too much to take in, really. We'll wait, see what Trian does. It may not be true. Bhelen may have heard Trian wrong. I appreciate his concern. We bid each other goodnight. I returned to my room for some much needed rest. I'm going to need it if I am to go against the Darkspawn tomorrow.
Dragon Age: Origins allow you to make your own character. The only time the character talks is through dialogue options that you get to pick. This leaves the thoughts and emotions of the character up to you. It's your avatar, more or less. I'll be doing it with my character, Caecilia. The actual diary is done in the font "Segoe Print" so it may help if you have the font, as you'll be able to see it.
Name: Caecilia Aeducan
Race: Dwarf
Note: This "diary" will include adventures added by mods. So, not material found in the source game. I'll also add in screenshots that I have taken, and that the game takes itself (during story segments) to add a bit of "flavor" to the journal. I'll put the pictures into Spoiler tags.
Entry One - A New Commander
Gorim Standing Before Caecilia
Caecilia Aeducan. Commander. It has a nice ring to it, doesn't it? My father is the King of Orzammar and I've just been promoted as the newest Commander in the kingdom. Why do I not do my duty as a princess, you who have picked up this journal, may want to know? Dwarven society is different than human society, which you may or may not be accustomed to, depending on who you are. For my father may be king, it doesn't mean I, or either of my two brothers, will take his place on the throne when he passes. The assembly will decide who will replace him. But that is neither here nor there, my father is in great health and will remain that way for many more years to come, I am sure. Anyway, back to what I was going to say, I am a warrior, much like all of my kind. I do not sit idly, I reach out and seek glory for myself and I am honored by my father to be given the title Commander. My second, Gorim, will be escorting me today, as my father has allowed merchants to set up shop in the Diamond Quarter due to the occasion. I've always enjoyed Gorim's company, so I do not mind. I have several hours before I am to be needed at the feast, and Gorim mentioned that there is a Proving being held today in my honor. I believe we will go watch it.
On the way, I'll look at the shops, and see if anything interests me. I have enough to spend. Speaking of Gorim, I am always impressed with his fighting, but that should be expect. He is from the Warrior's Caste. I admire his skill with a sword and shield, it was a style I could not master. Blocking, parrying, and returning attacks at just the right moments did not suit me, so I decided to take up two-handed weapons when I began my training so long ago. Giant mauls, axes, and swords are more my style. You may think I'm brutish. I simply ask; what dwarf isn't? On our way out of the palace, a red-haired woman came out of my brother, Bhelen's room, and quickly darted back inside. Curious, I followed after her. She has a mark upon her face, meaning she is Casteless. I assume my brother has taken up with her. If she has a child by him, her rank of casteless will not matter, she will be moved into the palace and live life in luxury. She believed I was mad at her for seeing her. That's just silly. I told her it was quite alright, and she left. Judging by a note on my brother's desk, the woman's name is Rica.
Note #01 - A Letter From Rica
"My dearest Prince Bhelen,
You are too kind to me. I am a small and insignificant thing and I do not deserve your attention, but your willingness to tolerate my presence shows you to be a prince among men! I cannot thank you enough for the beautiful necklace you presented to me. I will cherish it always and I promise I will wear it at our next meeting. I know my gratitude means nothing to you but I must say again: Thank you. I will always be your humble and devoted servant.
--Yours truly, Rica."
The Scholar & Bruntin Volllney
Exiting the palace, I noticed Bruntin Vollney arguing with one of Orzammar's scholars. My natural curiosity forced me to butt in. Vollney was claiming that the scholar had written a book that slandered the Vollney name, claiming the man deserved to die for the "lies" he wrote about the Paragon, Vollney, which is a serious charge to make, and I was sure to tell him that. Paragon is the highest regard a dwarf can achieve, they are considered a walking Ancestor. Vollney claimed that the scholar wrote that Vollney was a fraud, but he misunderstands. The scholar simply wrote that Paragon Vollney achieved the status by a single vote, unlike my ancestor, Paragon Aeducan, who had no votes against them. Even more interesting, is that the single vote is written in the Shaperate that it was a vote of intimidation and bribery. Vollney doesn't like that history speaks ill of his ancestor, but he needs to face facts. The history is there, it is true, the scholar had not written any lies. Of course, when I agreed with the scholar, Vollney tried to turn it on me, saying I would think differently if he had written something slandering my name and house. I told him to shut up. He stormed off, demanding I not order him around like a peon. Gorim mentioned something interesting following that. Vollney doesn't realize just how little power his house holds. Gorim suggested killing him for his insolence. I had Gorim send an order out for Vollney's death, public, and to be known why. Gorim informed me that Vollney wouldn't live past the hour. The scholar thanked us as we took our leave.
Meeting the Other Siblings
Walking through the Diamond Quarter, I've never seen it so packed. Merchant stalls lined the street, selling the finest merchandise they could afford and nobles lined the streets talking. Clothing as much as two sovereigns at one stall. Though I must admit, I was tempted by the soft clothing. As a woman, I do still enjoy being comfortable when not swinging a sword around. I'll admit now, here in this journal, that I bought one or two. Gorim seemed be against me wearing such frilly things, but ah... They were so pretty. Even though I bought them, I couldn't wear them at the time. I had to spend the day stomping around in a traditional suit of armor. The day was going great until I ran into my brothers. Trian, specifically. Bhelen never bothered me the way Trian did. Trian, the oldest, had it in his fool mind that he was next in line for the throne, despite the way our society works, and as such has always acted like a complete ass. How so? He demanded I return to the palace and attend the feast long before I would even be needed there. He said it was disrespectful that I was out mingling, and even insulted Gorim while he was at it. I told him not to speak to Gorim in such a way. It didn't really go over well, he brought up that Gorim was of a lower house, and he speaks to him as he should, and once again demanded I return to the palace.
Keep barking orders, Trian. It was all I could muster to say, while being civil. Again, he insulted me. Saying that in the next days outing, where I would be commanding a small group, that he would be apologizing to the nobles for their children's death because of my incompetence, and once again, demanded I return to the palace. I could not help myself, so I told him to kiss my ass. "I'd advise you to watch that tongue, dear sibling. Father will not live forever." If he were not my brother, I would have struck him down for that threat against me. This was supposed to be an enjoyable day out. Further down, we bumped into a couple of Noble Hunters, as Gorim called them. Women who try to gain favor of a single noble man, in hopes of bearing a son and being brought up in the world, since the child gains the caste of the father. Since it adds new bodies to a house, it is mostly looked upon favorably by many nobles. I on the other hand do not like them. Up-jumped nobles only make the caste weaker, in my opinion. Gorim requested to run them off, they protested that they paid for the permits and have a right to be there. They forgot their place. I had him run them off.
The weapons merchant greeted us, saying it was an honor for me to be at his stall. As I stated a page or two back, I am a warrior, weapons will always intrigue me. Though, it seemed the man had been wanting to speak to me, but he dare not say anything until now. Gorim took offense to the way the man was acting, which I could not blame him for. Regardless, I asked Gorim to stand down. I agreed to hear the man out, in which he began to stutter and fall over his words. To say the least, my annoyance rose. Just spit it out. The man apparently had made a dagger for me, for my celebration day and sent it via a messenger. A messenger that my older brother, Trian, had thrown out of the palace. The man didn't know what offense the messenger caused, but had him beaten for it. Leave it to Trian. I asked him if I could see the dagger. It was quite the beautiful piece. Carefully made by the best, according to the man, over a period of two years just for this day. I can only imagine Trian saw it as a threat to his potential power, as rumors had already been flying about that the Assembly favored the middle child, that would be me, of the three Aeducan children. If he thinks it's a threat, then so be it. I'd wear the dagger proudly. Of course, the merchant thanked me for the honor, but Gorim and I both know, he was thanking me for all the sovereigns I'd be making him by wearing something of his craft. I tried to speak to another merchant, selling magical artifacts, but he seemed awestruck that one of the royal family was at his stall, and fainted on the spot. I had only wanted to speak to him and ask about his wares. Sometimes being of royal blood can be a tiresome task.
Fainting at the Sight of Royalty
We were greeted by armed guards on our way to the Proving, apparently my father wants me escorted by a small unit, to prevent me from being harassed on my way through the commons. It's a bit silly, but I will comply with my father's wishes. I never tire of the Provings. Two warriors going at it, giving all they have until the other can no longer stand. It really gets the blood pumping, you know? As such, I decided to participate in the Provings myself. I know, I know. They were meant to be held in celebration of my promotion but I just couldn't resist joining the fray! My first opponent was Aller Bemot, a warrior trained in the same style as me. Either he was afraid to harm me, due to my royal status, or I was just that much better than him, the battle ended after a few swings of my giant hammer, with him getting only one, missed, swing in himself. He honored me by fighting, but I must say, I was somewhat disappointed. My next opponent is a woman by the name of Adal Helmi. A tenacious fighter according to the Proving Master. It's always nice to see another female on the field. Before the battle begin, she said I was her inspiration. I could only give my thanks. I had not expected that. Her style is quick. Using two daggers. It meant she had to get within my hammer's swing, but once in, she could do a number on me if she so chose to. I felt three hits against my armor in quick succession, knowing I needed to stun her, I used the point near the handle of my hammer to knock her off her feet and deliver a stunning blow while she was down. My strategy worked, but she returned to her feet, but another blow sent her back down to the Stone, where she stayed, unconscious.
My third opponent is a man by the name of Ser Blackstone, of the Warrior Caste and one who has attained glory in close combat in the Deep Roads. Though I have respect for him, his words before the bout put me in a bad mood. "This is your education, child. Try to learn as you bleed." Hmph. I could not bite my tongue and told him he would eat his words. Much like me, he uses a two-handed weapon. For today's battle, he chose an ax. I tried to knock him off his feet, much like I did against Adal, but he simply shrugged my blow off. Seems the head of my hammer would need to do all the talking. He returned the favor, swinging from side-to-side, his ax nicked against my armor. Gripping my hammer tightly with both hands, I stepped back and did a massive upward swing with it, It caught him under the chin and sent him sprawling the Stone. Frandlin Ivo is my final opponent. He had to go through many opponents to get here. Frandlin is a man who is a master of many different weapons and is said to never use the same tactics twice. According to Gorim, his house is inconsequential, but Frandlin may change that. I will gladly face him. He wished me glory, and I wished him to be as stone.
The battle commenced. Frandlin using a saw-bladed sword and shield in this battle. He blocked many of my attacks and tried to return with stabs and swings. Careful dodging kept me out of harm, though his blade did land against my armor several times. During a wild swing of mine that missed, Frandlin let out a fearsome yell. I will not lie, it sent a chill through me, and I believe it made me hesitant in my swings, not putting the full force of my might into it made them weaker. He swung that massive saw-blade towards my face, if I weren't trained, he would have gotten me, I held my hammer up, blocking it with the shaft, and when I pushed forward, he stumbled back, I took the opening, hitting him with the butt of my hammer, knocking him down, and then delivering a final blow to end the fight. The man is tough. I would gladly face him again. I was awarded the ceremonial helmet, issued by my father for the winner. I could not take it. It was not mine to take. I had the Proving Master send it to Frandlin Ivo. A warrior such as him deserved it more than I. Gorim congratulated me on my victories, and quipped that my opponents would be licking their wounds all evening. That certainly did pass the time. With the escort, we returned to the Diamond Quarter without incident and headed back to the palace for the feast.
As we entered where the feast was to take place, we both noticed the humans present. Grey Wardens, as Gorim said. That must mean the raid is no normal one. The Wardens being here can only mean a handful of things. Lord Dace asked me to speak with him. Due to the sound of his voice, it sounded rather important. I stepped closer to hear him out. He congratulated me on being promoted to commander, and said that along with my brother, who was also a commander, that it brought much honor to my house. I know he didn't call me over just to kiss my ass. Regardless, I thanked him. It seems he wants a favor. The Assembly is coming to a vote within a week that deals with the surface dwarves. Dwarves that leave for the surface world, are considered Casteless when they leave, so if they were want to come back... Well, they can't just go right back to their old Caste and home as they are lost to the Stone. I knew his interest wasn't because he felt sorry for them, and when I asked him why he had such an interest, he willingly admitted it. His wife has a cousin, a "useless sort" or so he claims. This cousin went to the surface, hoping to make his fortune on some venture, and went bust. Considering he forfeited the right to his Caste when he left, he cannot simply just come back home. He would be Casteless and have to live among them. He wants me to take up the cause, to speak up about it when my father presents me in front of the nobles. I told him I would take it under advisement.
I spoke briefly to one of the Grey Wardens. A tan-skinned man with a beard. He had been speaking with my father, and as always, father put me on a pedestal. Claiming me to be the most skilled warrior in all of House Aeducan. He told me of the Darkspawn's presence on the surface. We had noticed the Darkspawn was thinning slightly in the Deep Roads, but to go to the surface means a Blight is upon the surface lands. I asked the man if many dwarves were in the Wardens, he said that they used to be, but over the centuries as dwarves become less in population, so did they become less in the Wardens. A pity, according to this man, as Dwarves have the most experience fighting Darkspawn. Truth be told, I wish I could join the Wardens, but I doubt my father would be pleased with it. The man said he would speak to my father after tomorrow's battle on the matter. As I stepped away and turned around, I was met with an older woman, who called me a fool. It took all I had not to assault her for the insult. She then went onto my mother, claiming she would melt the Stone if she knew what I just did. Again, the urge to assault her was there. But I wanted to know what this old bat was talking about. She claims Lord dace is playing me false with his desire for the surface dwelling dwarves. He already told me his intentions. Could he be lying even through that? She had my attention then. Apparently Lord Dace backed the expedition that his wife's cousin had left on. This means he would be out of a substantial amount of money due to it going bust... The tricky bastard.
Father and King
Of course, the surface guild has no way to repay the investment that Dace put into it, but does have several leading members who are descended from noble houses. Helmi, Bemot, and most notably... Aeducan. They would be forced to pay the kin debt if they were allowed to return. Dace would get his money back, as well as have a small victory in his hand for deceiving us all. I should march back over to Dace and plant my hammer into his face, but no... Politics is a bit different. I'll let him think he has me in his pocket. When presented with his question when my father presents me to the nobles, I'll shut it, and him, down. Approaching my father's throne, he was in discussions with Lord Bemot and another about something. I couldn't make out exactly what it was, but once he saw me, everything changed. He complimented me on how good I looked in my grandmother's honor, and was quite amused that I entered the Proving, saying that it's not like me to just sit idly by. He then presented me to the heads of the noble houses. As soon as my father asked who would like to know the prospect better, Dace spoke up, and asked his question of what I think of the surface dwellers, those lost to the Stone. I spoke up, they are less than men I said. Dace did not seem pleased as he walked away. My father presented me as Orzammar's newest commander, and said that on the following day, I would lead part of a mission to deliver a great blow to the Darkspawn in hopes to recover some of our most important mines, but also allows Duncan, head of Ferelden's Grey Wardens, to get far into the Deep Roads. Father then asked that I find my brother, Trian, and tell him he wishes to meet with him.
Seeking out Trian isn't something I would put on the top of my agenda, but if father wills it, I will do it. On the way out Dace asked me if I was proud of myself. With a smirk, I told him he was lucky I didn't kill him. It angered him. Good. He asked me if I had any idea who I was talking to. I asked him if he was the court jester. He claimed he would remember the insult. As if he could use it against me. After Dace stormed away, Gorim and I made our way to my brother's room. He was accompanied by our other brother still. Trian acknowledged that I was a commander now, but threw in the quip that it was only by name so far. Ignoring this bait, I told him father wanted to see him. He ordered Bhelen to stay behind and "stroke my ego" if he so pleased, and then ordered him to bed early. Bhelen seemed quite irritated with Trian. Usually he can handle him better than I. Bhelen also seemed quite serious as he said he had something to tell me that would me that would make me less fond of Trian. Bhelen claims that Trian does see me as a legitimate threat and due to his much-proclaimed honor, has moved against me in acts of jealousy. That he will try and kill me. It really seems far-fetched to me. Sure, we don't get along, but we are still family, no?
Bhelen claimed he wouldn't believe it himself, but had overheard Trian ordering men loyal to him. He thinks I'm a threat to his heir to the throne, apparently. Trian is the named prince, but the Assembly decides the next king, even if it goes against the current kings wishes. Bhelen tells us that at least a half-dozen times, the Assembly has named a lesser family member, or even someone from another house, as king. Twice, a woman. Trian believes the Assembly would choose me over him, due to the fact I'm more personable than he is, that I entered the Provings held in my name for glory and to please the crowds shows that, apparently. If I win glory against the Darkspawn tomorrow, it will strength my case. Trian fears that Father will replace him, and even if he doesn't, the Assembly will turn against him. Bhelen's words hold true, especially when he speaks that Trian's pride will never allow him to step aside. I asked for Bhelen's advice, but he had none, only saying that as the elder, he'll follow my lead as he always has. It's all too much to take in, really. We'll wait, see what Trian does. It may not be true. Bhelen may have heard Trian wrong. I appreciate his concern. We bid each other goodnight. I returned to my room for some much needed rest. I'm going to need it if I am to go against the Darkspawn tomorrow.
~Show Your Love~ 