The Harrowing

By Hasan ARSIN

Liam took a reluctant step forward. The stone floor felt solid, as one would expect. Looking down though, he could see mists swirling under his feet, like a river, flowing away to the distance. There was an eerie smell in the air, and everything was very quiet. Not completely silent, but muffled, as if some invisible deity held his hand over the realms mouth and it couldnt fight back. He took a few paces ahead, and surveyed his surroundings; to be amazed and frightened at the same time. Everything looked ethereal. Twisted shapes sprouting from the ground, like trees, yet they seemed as if they were screaming. So this is the fade.. he uttered under his breath. He knew this would not be a walk in the park. He knew that every other step that he took, he would be in constant danger. For the fade was home to spirits; the makers first children. And not a lot of them were virtuous. His powers were a double edged sword in this realm, for as much as he could use magic to defend himself; he would attract demons to himself by it. The stories of the fade spoke of how the demons preyed on rifts and tears in the fade, to consume mages in the real world, into abominations; Luring them with promises of power, and corrupting them. Yet here he was, in their realm. Alone. And why? Because the Chantry, willed it so. It was his rite of passage, as a mage. Before he was acknowledged as a fully fledged mage, and permitted to further practice his craft in the tower, this was his exam. To experience the fade, and come out unscathed. Of course, if he failed, and died in the fade; he knew he would become tranquil. A husk of a person without feelings and emotions. Void of any passion. Or, if he got possessed by a demon, and rose as an abomination, the templars standing guard over his material body would behead him on the spot. That was his gambit. His objective was vague. He would have to endure the influence of a demon, without falling prey to it. Yet this was their realm. They could be anywhere. They could be anything. He could trust no one. But could he trust himself?

The air flickered on the horizon. He was walking for a while now, trying to sink in the sights and emotions of this place. Somehow everything felt out of place. Of course, a floating door in the air

was a dead giveaway for itself; but gazing at it for a couple of seconds, he thought it made more sense than most other things around him. His strides took him on to a ledge, overlooking to another platform below him. He tried to see further, but the platform just seemed to end, with nothing but the void in the distance. He sighed. There appeared to be a lower platform around two stories below. Looking more carefully at it he noted a circle of stones on the far end of it. Maybe it was an altar, of sorts he thought. Something relevant to his cause at least. He decided to head down and investigate. He surveyed the edge of the platform he was on, to find a point where he could climb down without too much trouble. Once he descended, he cautiously walked towards the circle. Now with a better sight of it, he could make out the runes carved on the outlying circle; and another smaller circle in the middle of it, bearing a chipped red crystal at the heart. He leaned down, and ran his hand over the crystal. The crystal visibly cracked at his touch as the ground trembled beneath him. Standing up proved to be slightly more challenging than usual, but the quake ended as suddenly as it started. What was more interesting though, was that the platform above, had disappeared. He ran back to the ledge he climbed down from, and looked up, but it simply led up to the sky now. His stomach felt like it jumped around inside him as he raced to reason with the fact that he was stranded on this piece of rock with nowhere to go. His brightest idea after that was to give another look at the crystal circle. He hurried back to the far end of the platform; and leaned to examine the crystal. Well this cant be good, can it? he mumbled to himself. The crystal was bleeding from its cracks. Lines of blood were tracing their way towards the outer circle slowly, revealing a larger rune in the middle as they ran. It obviously meant something to some people, but his years as an apprentice did not teach him what. He was just about to feel disappointed with himself for not knowing; but he was interrupted. The lines on the floor started to glow, and it was getting brighter by the second. He had to cover his eyes with his arm and look away when the light exploded before him. Moments later, as he lowered his arm and looked back on to the circle, he realized he was no longer alone.

With the light fading away gently, it revealed the figure of a person. A female person.

The woman was floating inches above the circle, her long crimson hair chasing her body as her bare toes slowly drew towards the ground. He stared as she descended; for what it felt to him like an hour, dumbfounded by two things. One being the physical appearance of her; the way her hair was, the way her ears shot out from inside them; the frown on her face as she was emerging from the light, the garments she wore, and the parts of her they did not cover. The other half of his wit was busy on the second thing. How and why was she here? She looked like a dalish elf, lost in this place; but who was she really? Or maybe he even had to ask, what was she? He admitted to himself that thinking about the former part pleased him more than the latter. The spell faded with the light, leaving her on her knees as her weight started to matter. Only a few seconds later though, she was standing right in front of him. The elf met his gaze with her green eyes. You-she spoke. You wear their colors, yet you released me. Her voice was gentle, yet bold at the same time. Like a river flowing in its bed. Her voice carried its own echo to itself. He glanced at the robe he was wearing, at their colors. Pale green and red stripes. Who.. are you? he asked, returning his look at her. Were you a prisoner in that spell? The elfs frown eased. My name is.. Vhierna. She blinked, slowly. And it has been a while since I had a use for it. She added in her distinct tone. I have been trapped within that spell, for.. I dont know how long. What are you called? she eyed him. Im Liam.. he replied. He was eyeing the tattoos covering her skin at the same time. The patterns. Every dalish clan had their own way of ornamenting their bodies. At least thats what the remembered from the books. And I thought the dalish preferred to be among their own, in the wilds. Why would you be here in the first place?He asked, trying to look collected. He was doing his best not to lose his resolve and caution. He didnt want any surprises. On a second thought, he realized everything here was a surprise to him anyhow. Meanwhile, a new expression appeared on the elfs face. One could easily mistake it for genuine interest; but her very untimely and misplaced appearance made it rather hard for Liam to read it clearly. I think it is appropriate to say that I belong to this realm now, more than the material world. Vhiernas voice flew. My remembrance of Arlathan, is but a distant memory. The elf frowned, Yet I would still not refer to Elvhenan as the wilds. And what is a dalish which you speak of? Liams eyes widened, Arlathan? Elvhenan? But how would you not kn- he stopped in his tracks. Suddenly, a thought had hit him. This elf wasnt Dalish. He had to ask. Just, how long have you been here Vhierna? I cannot say. Time, is a very vague notion here, Liam. But it must have been quite long. Even before my time in the crystals prison. She elaborated, considering what Liam was hinting at here.

Well.. Im not entirely informed about the etiquette of speaking about the ages of elven ladies, but.. I could have a guess at yours if you would like to hear it..

Liam started to speak with a not-so-hidden amazement in his voice. Vhierna, I think you are.. very, very old. What youve just asked leads me to think that you... He paused for a moment to choose his words better. ...are not informed of the fall of Arlathan, under the reign of the Tevinter Imperium. He could almost make out a hint of shock on the elfs face. Almost. The Fall of Arlathan? By the hand of humans, you say? This cannot be, we taught them how to grow, how to wield magic, how to live; our vast civilization would not fall to human folly! Vhierna shot back. Yes, it did, Im afraid. And that was... a long time ago. The Imperial calendar records the days of Arlathan around six-thousand years before the founding of the Imperium. And the elven nations fall followed shortly after the Imperiums rise. Vhierna listened silently as he kept on. Now, considering the year we are in, 2024 after the Imperium; you must be over... threethousand years old, now He raised his eyes to look into hers, not knowing what sort of reaction to expect. The elven shade looked thoughtful for a couple of moments, in silence. Then she met Liams gaze. I wish I did not have to believe you. But deep inside I feel that you are speaking the truth. Tell me one more thing then, Liam. What of the elves now? How do my people fare? Well, not very well, as far as Ive known. While the Imperium broke down millennia ago, and its reign over the land dissolved, the elves you would see in human cities today are looked down upon. They live in ran down parts of cities reserved to their folk, called alienages; make their living as servants and slaves to humans mostly. Yet I doubt many of them even care to remember the old days now. He frowned as he continued. But then there are also the elves who live in the wilds. The Dalish as they are called. I thought you were one of them. They are a.. proud folk. They travel the land as nomads, but they cling to all they can about their past, and do their best to preserve it. Vhierna looked visibly distressed now. So first you release me from my prison, and then you tell me of my people and their grim fate. She started after a moment. I am indebted to you, Liam. I know not what brought you here or what you seek, but I would walk with you if you would allow me. I believe I could be of aid. Quite surprised, Liam stuttered to speak. I... I would need all the help I can get, I suppose. He smiled awkwardly to the woman. But before anything, you should know that my task is to seek out a demon, and prove the better. It is my trial to pass my apprenticeship. Vhierna almost smiled on this remark though.

Trial by the biggest threat you say? Her smile stood. You know Liam; I used to be very wary of demons. Afraid of the risk of being possessed. She started walking to the ledge on the other side of the platform. Liams eyes traced behind her long crimson tresses that followed. I was always under more pressure to be more careful. For I am what we call a somniari. A dreamer? Liam added, puzzled. A human dreamer was extremely rare, yet it was told that the elves of old had such members, that not only had the abilities of a mage, but a power over the fabric of the fade, who could shape and weave it on their whim. That potent power would be very appealing to demons as well though. It would make sense that this woman knew a great deal about the fade and its denizens, he reasoned. But I worry no more. One of the good things about not having a material body, I suppose. Vhierna stopped in front of the ledge. She looked up, and muttered a few words under her breath. Liam almost tumbled over when another tremor hit the platform. As he turned his head to look at Vhierna again when the quake ended, he noticed a flicker in the air. The empty space above shifted and changed, condensing into his sight, was another platform, just like the one he came from. Vhierna did not even appear to move; not at all shaken by the quake. When the above platform fully appeared, she turned back to Liam, and smiled again. Let us not tarry here any longer. I believe you would wish the same.

They had been walking over the newly opened path. Liam was eyeing his surroundings, the grotesque landscape. They passed near a statue, a big statue of ..something that looked like a person, but had elongated arms like whips with barbs and huge horns. For all his composure a chill ran through his spine. Both of them were silent for a while now. But there was a matter Liam still meant to ask about. Vhierna, he called out, turning his head to her direction. Her striking red hair waved in the air, as she turned to Liam. Yes, Liam? You never said who your captors were. Who imprisoned you inside the crystal? They kept walking as he asked. Blood magic. Its wielder was a mage, much like yourself. She shifted her steps to step over and around some rubble. But why? What purpose was he after? Same reason a mage resorts to Blood Magic. Greed, promises of power. She added lightly. Guessing his next question, she kept on speaking.

Yes, I could have defeated him in a fight. But there hardly was any. I was.. led into a trap. It was a long time ago, but one could still feel the meaning in those words. She had been foolish to hand out trust easily. Yet our purpose is not my past, Liam. We should keep on. Yes youre right. I have a feeling we will ne.. Liam stopped. A tiniest whisper stole his attention. Like the smallest stream of water running on, but... backwards. His nerves felt like they were vibrating with his breath. Do you smell that? He turned towards her to ask again. Vhiernas eyes narrowed under her frown. Even she was struck with surprise as a grey shape crawled out of the floor behind Liam. He had a surprised expression in his face as opposed hers, for another one had spawned just next to Vhierna. Liam, move! Vhierna, run! Their voices garbled together as they leapt away desperately. The shadowy claws that were meant for their spirits met the air instead. Liam got up after tumbling on the ethereal dirt, while Vhierna was already on her feet. Shades, be on your guard! She put clearly. Liam nodded, and thought what he could do from the top of his head, to battle. Vhierna on the other hand, did not hesitate. She whispered the incantations under her breath, and then placed her palms on the ground in front of her. The shades, looking like dirty rags that could move and attack; were advancing towards them. But the ground beneath them burst up with a punch of magical energy from Vhierna; forming in to an earthen spike; impaling them both on their step. The two dissipated like a foul smoke. But as Vhierna rose up again, Liams voice came behind her. We might be surrounded.. Vhierna turned her head to look towards his side; and saw more of the creatures spawning, born from the ghastly ground. There were five emerging from behind, and another glance revealed three more where the first two fell. I hope you know some magic, Liam Vhierna coldly joked. Ah sorry, just remembering a few cantrips Liam said playing along.

They stood back to back as the shades started moving again. Liam was not afraid of the shades; but he felt pressure to look strong. If he appeared a weak mage, Vhierna would surely feel that he was not worth the help. He gritted his teeth in anticipation. He had to do what he had to do. He confirmed his trust in his instincts as a mage and took a deep breath. The first breath of battle. The shades screamed and shrieked in a voice incomprehensible. And so they came.

The air was heavy. Or maybe it just felt so because of the danger of the moment. Locked back to back, the two looked into the image of their faceless enemies. Featureless animated shadows, like dirty blackened rags of cloth gazed back into them with primal intent. Time felt like stopping for an instant, as the trained clockwork minds of the mages ticked into gear. And time ran on again, as the shades stepped on. Vhierna, facing the five on one side, quickly considered her next step. She would have a move or two before they actually got close for melee. She would prefer if none made it. Three were advancing in front, while the other two were behind. She had chosen her move. Smiling vaguely, she muttered words of power, as she took a step to her right, as if she would flank the front row of shades. She drew her arm back with power, a fist clenched, charged with power as she did. The shades took another step forward, and three of them were loosely lined behind each other. Just what she liked to see. She shot her arm in a punch towards the first shade, who was a good three meters far. Her fist did not hit the creature, but another did. A massive fist of stone launched from her arm towards the unexpecting shades, smashing their whole materiality, and crushing them beneath each other and stone as it traveled through. Meanwhile, Liam had his eyes on the other wave of shades. His mind was clear, his course of action planned. He waited as the shades kept closing in. He readied himself, changing his stance, legs apart, elbows drawn back with open palms. Another step. The shades shrieked as they raised their spirit-claws to strike. The words of power poured from Liams lips as he pushed his hands forward with force, as if heaving a boulder. A frigid blast of magic waved over the shades, poised to attack. Ice encased their shadowy figures, freezing them in place all three. A grotesque statue. Magic, is like another sense for mages. Like hot and cold, hard and soft, one attuned with magic, can feel its presence and flow around themselves, and thus have an idea of whats happening,

without seeing it. In this way, Vhierna was aware that Liam had frozen some of their foes behind her. As Liams senses told him about her earth-based spell. Lets switch Liam shouted. Vhierna nodded, and ran back to his side, as Liam turned to the other side, facing the two remaining shades in the back. Neither gave way from their momentum. Liam once again, charged his thoughts, and pulled his hand back, and threw like a balloon of water- a translucent clump of magic in the way of the shades. The ground became mucky with magical grease. This would have caused a regular creature to lose its balance and fall, but shades lacking leg-like appendages, effortlessly hovered over as they kept closing in. Meanwhile Vhierna eyed the frozen trio. They were still a threat, since the magical ice wouldnt last too much longer. She acted quickly. She raised her arm once again, charged with earthen might; and aimed her strike on the ground beneath the shades. The tremor of the blow shattered the frozen shades into silvers and shards. Liam was not done. For the grease spell was not for its usual purpose this time. He snapped his right hand fingers as he held his hand high; sparking flames in his palm. He lobbed the small fireball on to the greased ground, igniting it into a small field of fire, almost instantly. The shades caught fire as they greedily rushed to attack. The smell of burning shadows could only be described as... outlandish, Liam slipped inside his train of thought. Fire did not immediately down them though. They kept coming, with screams and cries, claws swinging to meet his flesh. But Liam had panicked when the shades didnt stop. He took a step back to avoid the first hit, and succeeded. But he stumbled, his ankle bent awkwardly, falling on his back. The shades, disappearing moment by moment, kept coming in flames until their last. A burning claw came slashing down onto Liam. He raised his arm to guard his face in desperation, eyes squinted. He felt pain.

Liam opened his eyes slowly, teeth clenched. The blow had struck his left forearm. Even thought the impact hurt by itself his new wound was now pulsing in pain. Pain like fire. He slowly straightened himself, trying to look at his arm. There was a claw mark on his robe, three slashes went in. He slid the sleeve up to survey the damage on his arm. The blow had gone deeper than his skin, but not as deep to cripple him. He let out a silent groan. Liam! Are you hurt? came a familiar voice suddenly.

Vhierna hurried to him. Kneeled by his side, Let me see that, she muttered. She put her hand beneath his gently, and ran her eyes over his wound. I know some healing magic. This might sting a bit. She caringly put. She pulled Liams sleeve up, and placed her right palm over the exposed wound. There wasnt much blood. The flaming shade had cauterized as it cut him. She closed her eyes and let out a verse of power, words of comfort. A soft, misty green glow lit up beneath her hands; she ran it smoothly over the wound. It didnt sting. Not any more than it already did, at least. You will be fine. But it will probably be hurting for a little while longer. Vhierna said warmly, into his hazel eyes. Liams tongue, which was apparently chased away by the beautiful albeit surreal lady kneeling right next to him, returned. He gazed emptily back into her green orbs, Its fine-. Was all he could manage. He didnt flinch or twitch as she cast the spell over his arm. After all, the Tower, his home, was not the best place for a young boy to practice his emotions towards the opposite sex. There were mages and pupils of different races and genders of course. But the Tower was a strict place. Not only their teachers, but also the Templars, kept their vigil over them unblinking. So for an awkward moment, he felt stupidly naive, as his brain skillfully pointed out Vhiernas every feminine detail to him. Liam? Are you feeling well? she asked, noticing the pointless look on his face. Jumping back to his senses Liam pulled himself up. I-Im fine. Im ok. I just drifted for a moment. Its nothing, really he replied, quicker than he thought he did. Seeing that he earned a confused face from Vhierna, he managed to smile, as if to prove he was really ok. Good then. We should continue as soon as youre able. She bluntly replied. She had a point. Those creatures attacked them out of the blue. Lingering here would surely risk another ambush from the shades. He stood up, held his left arm up, and looked it over. It felt fine, and seemed to function as it should. The wound had healed up by Vhiernas spell, but the claw mark did not disappear. He slid his sleeve back down, and ruffled his brown hair with his good hand as he spoke. Where do we head anyway? Where does our road lead? We have been moving on, but it does not feel Im getting any closer to my goal. Vhierna stood up next to him. Liam was not particularly tall, but she was as tall as up to his nose. Do not get ahead of yourself Liam; all roads lead onwards in the Fade. And no one can say youll be back where you started, even if you turned the way you came and walked. Liam was half expecting an answer like this. He sighed. Let us walk on then. Vhierna smiled, and nodded in approval.

Thus they started walking. They had barely walked twenty paces, a now-familiar scent registered in Liams senses. He stopped and turned to Vhierna. The elf, more attuned to the fade than him, the sense did not stick out as much. But seeing the oddity in him, she turned to look behind them. The sight was not very pleasing. The ground boiled in ripples in the distance, shades climbing up, spawning in numbers. Numbers they would not last against. Only one thing seemed smart to do. Run! She rallied in sudden realization of danger. His weird sense of smell confirmed by Vhiernas reaction, Liam did not hesitate. Both of them turned and started to run on, fast as their legs would allow them. They ran and ran, yet the distance between them and the shades did grow neither larger nor smaller. The distance, however, between them and the edge of the platform they were on, was shrinking fast towards none. Once they realized the fact while skidding to a stop near the edge, they turned to look around for a way out in desperation. Liam looked down the edge, into the sea of void; swirling shades of nothingness seemed to surround them. Then he looked up. And there was something in the air. Something out of place. A lone door. Seemingly made of wood and iron. He could hear the cries of the shades in the distance behind them now. They had to do something. Vhierna, I know this sounds odd but.. is there any way we can go up? He pointed towards the door in the air. Vhierna was happy to see what she saw. For her abilities would surely work in their favor. She surveyed the location and the height of the door. It was around two stories high, by the edge of the platform. I can create a path for us Liam. But you must buy me some time! She stated the urgency in her voice clear. Liam looked back at the sight closing in on them. A score of shadows in shrieks and cries. They had no other choice. They had to bet on each others abilities. Start working. Ill hold them until you are done. He said looking into her eyes, sealing the decision with a simultaneous nod. He took a breath to ready himself, and started running towards the very mass they were running from. Into the shrieking shadows.

The shades were closing in, without a hint of relent. But so was Liam this time. He was rushing towards the multitude of his enemies, alone. His mind set, he sped on with a grin on his face. Vhierna on the other side, was concentrating as best as she could. To create an image of something in her mind, that would allow them to tread over and reach the door. She knew she didnt have much time. Liam put as much distance behind him as possible before he started casting his spell. The shades were a few paces away now. With the momentum of his sprint, he hurled a barrage of magical grease towards the shades. But this time, he did not aim for the ground. The amorphous bulk of grease, splashed on the shades; most of them getting hit with it here and there. They looked even more horrible with greenish muck hanging from their bodies. Then came the challenging part of his plan though. Vhierna focused her will into the task of molding the fabric of this realm into existence. To subdue it. The ground before her started to shift as her magical energy flowed through it. A simple idea, started to form into being. Wooden planks appeared out of the mists, and stood at their designated locations, as the rest of the structure formed around them; lining up and reaching above towards the door. A staircase. In the meanwhile, as he cast his first spell, Liam turned on his heels, and started running the opposite direction, towards Vhierna. The shades, dirtied but obviously not shaken by the grease, continued to give chase. Liam held his hand behind, and whispered the words of power once again, under his hard breathing, one syllable at a time. His palm caught fire, as the magical sparks appeared and fused into a favorite spell of many, the fireball. Once the ball reached the size he desired, he hurled it. Not forward, or behind, but straight up above him, for he knew, he had to keep running. His forearm bore a mark of that lesson from their last encounter. The fireball flew up, then as one would expect, started falling down, right amidst the group of the shades trailing them. It caused a small blast, probably only strong to kill one or two by itself, yet the greased parts caught fire like hay on the other shades, spawning a running wave of fire. Some of the shades perished as they ran, falling only to ignite the ones after them, some of them kept running even as crippled and burnt they became by the second. Vhierna! Hurry! Liam shouted as he ran towards her, and the now apparent staircase. She was barely done when Liam called out, waiting for him just by the first step. When he was close enough, she started climbing the spiral stairs, hearing Liams loud footsteps as he ran after her. Once the door was within her reach, she turned the handle and pushed with all her strength. The door did not budge. She shifted all her weight over on to the door by a leaning shoulder, and kept turning the handle. Nothing. Liam was almost behind her now, with the remaining shades almost reaching the first stairs as well. He arrived shouting, Why havent you opened the door yet? We have to run! and grasped the handle himself. He pulled the door towards himself, and it clicked open. Easily and naturally.

Vhierna stood there for a moment, stupefied at the simplicity of her error. Of course this would be the outside of the door. It would not open the other way. Liam called her from the inside, which startled her back to her senses. Run on in, Ill be right there. She added. She took a step on to the doorway, and spied the fiery bulk on the lower level of the stairs, crawling upstairs with their shadowy claws. The sight made her grimace. She drew her hand back in a fist, and smashed the staircase with a boulder-heavy force. The stairs crumbled in splinters and wooden pieces, as it got torn down by the magical force. Bringing down with it the shades that were almost too close to the two. Vhierna stepped inside and pulled the door by the handle to shut it. A simple smile settled on her face, seeing the door moved as she wanted this time.

Liam greeted her with a tired smile. He was still breathing heavily, having been just relieved of another confrontation with the shades. You did well back there, Vhierna complimented him. Unlike Liam, she didnt look tired at all. In fact, Liam thought she looked better, if such a thing was possible. Her hair was scattered over her body; half over her back, half flowing over her breasts, down to her bare navel. Realizing that she actually spoke to him, Liam quickly gave a generic response; Th-thanks. He blushed as he hid his smile away. Lets move on then, if youre ok, he added. She just nodded gently in response. Liam led the way as they started walking. They seemed to be in a corridor of some sort but it was too dark to spot the details of their surroundings. Light seemed to return as they walked onwards; as if some unknown power was working on the clock to prepare the next part of his trial, dimming the lights until he was done. They could see more and more. Walls around them, brick walls. Ornamented sections on some of them. Strangely familiar decorations. Portraits and paintings he could swear he had seen before. Liam stopped as the corridor ended, opening into a hallway. What is it Liam? Vhiernas voice came from behind him. This place.. He paused. ..we are in the Circle Tower. He turned to face her. My home. A subtlest hint of surprise passed from Vhiernas face. Liam however, was visibly distressed. This isnt right at all. How is this possible? He asked. Maybe we are in someones dream? Another mage before me? He put, thinking out loud. Vhierna reached and gently held his hand. Let us not linger, I feel we should be wary here. She stated, looking directly into Liams eyes, as if trying both to comfort him, and shock him back to his senses at the same time.

Liam was indeed shocked by the sudden jolt of intimacy from her, yet his senses agreed with hers. There surely was something rotten about this whole place. Meeting her eyes for a moment, he pulled his hand away slowly. Yes, right, come on then. Turning away, he took a step inside towards the hall.

The hall clearly resembled the real version of it. Yet the feeling persisted as they proceeded further. Something was amiss. The hall gently curved towards a doorway. At the floor around them, laid piles of worn books, as if the spectral inhabitants had no further use of them now. Liam kept on his slow but sure pace. The doorway revealed the stairs leading to the next floor. It would be the living quarters, if Liam was not mistaken. He felt his stomach spasm in ill-anticipation as to what they would find out in his room. Vhierna followed silently, walking behind Liam the whole time they were inside, letting him take the lead. She was also inspecting her surroundings, yet refrained from asking questions. This floor is where my room was. Liam stated after moments of silence. Im not sure what to expect. The creature you seek could very well be here. Stay vigilant. She calmly replied. Liam stepped over the ruffled carpet. It felt hard under his feet, lot more like stone than cloth of any make. He inspected the layout carefully, as if to pick out more mismatches from his memories. There laid three rooms on their left, and a doorway to the other half-corridor stood at the end of the curved hall. He walked towards the first door on the left which stood half-open. He pushed it further gently. No shades ambushed him, nor were any magical traps sprung. Yet he flinched for a moment at the sight. The room was a mess. The furniture were knocked down, books and notes scattered around the room. Magical scorch marks scarred the walls. There had surely been a fight here. He grit his teeth as he walked by the two broken beds, towards the only one left standing. Then he caught glimpse of something that he did not expect at all. Someone was lying at the floor on the other side of the bed, face down. Quite dead; but what disturbed him further was that he was wearing the robes of the circle. One same as his. He shot a look at Vhierna who was now standing next to him, as to ask for approval, yet he turned back without waiting for an answer. He kneeled next to the corpse, and held his breath as he turned him around. He had to see his face. By the maker.. he breathed out. Sareth..? His eyes darted to the black wound in his chest, and back to the dead gaze in his eyes. His robe was burnt through from the front, the spell burning his lungs into cinders. He had died painfully.

Liam let the body down as he stood back up. He took a few slow breaths as to catch his nerve, and then turned to Vhierna to explain. He..he was my friend. One of the few people that I could actually talk to. He mournfully spoke. This could be some sort of trick- Vhierna tried to say, but Liam continued with his own thoughts, as if to disprove her thinking. Sareth had his harrowing too today. He was to go before me. I hadnt seen him after he was summoned up, and no one would tell me the about him when I myself was called. ...so you think he failed? Vhierna concluded. Liam nodded bleakly. Lets check the other rooms. They walked out of the first room. Liam spared a last glance over his shoulder to his friend as he moved. He took a few more steps and pushed the second door ajar. This room would essentially have a same layout to the first. As all student quarters had. Yet this one looked nothing like the other. It was significantly more trashed than the first one; furniture, books, clothes and all their burnt remains littered the stone floor. It smelled terrible. He saw two more corpses lying next to the opposite wall, side by side. Burn marks on them too. He didnt need to take a closer look this time though. He knew who they were. Agatha.. Maerwynn.. he muttered. What is this!? What does this mean!? Losing his cool over the sight, he turned to ask Vhierna, in a loud, desperate voice. They cant be dead, they cant all be dead! Those two are not even close to their Harrowing; they can not be here! Vhierna could see the confusion in his face. Whatever this is, one thing is certain Liam. You are real. You must get back to your senses! She said, boldly. He looked at her, her figure still undiminished by the weight of this whole place; this ordeal. No apparent emotion displayed on her beautiful face. But he knew she was right. The demon could be here. It could be in the very next room waiting for them. Even though his fortitude was being tested every passing moment, he had to shake it off. Yes.. right. He shook his head to dismiss the thoughts. Fists clenched he turned to walk to the last room in the hall. He pushed the closed door, but this time it didnt move. He pushed harder, but to no avail. Probably blocked from the other side, he thought. We probably dont need to explore this one then.. Letting down a half-disappointed sigh he turned away and headed out towards the other half-corridor of the circular floor. And Vhierna followed without hesitation.

Thoughts ran amok in Liams consciousness, his focus darting to and from conclusions, reasons, ifs and whys. In the disarrayed image of the tower before him, he held more chaos inside of him than outside. His thoughts shifted again, half-desperately trying to focus on the task at hand. He looked around; now standing in the corridor leading to his room. The other rooms did not matter, he knew. He could feel the weight of the whole tower gravitating from there. The key behind all this malcreation. Liam.. Vhierna stuttered for a moment. She also knew this quest was nearing its end, one way or the other. I.. She couldnt finish again. Liam turned to look at her, his head clearing with the help of her voice. She looked distant. You all right? He asked, knowing whatever her answer, clearly she had something bothering her. You must be careful now. She spoke, half whispering. Whatever that is in there, will test your very being. Liam nodded. He didnt need telling. He knew the risks of the Harrowing very well. Yet what was a boy supposed to do? What was he supposed to live for when he was left at the circle at the age of ten, being a promising one with ties to magic? It was not a very common gift to humans.. One did not simply make a living as a mage freely. The Chantry and its Templar Order made sure that every mage, master or novice, was under their strict supervision. The Circle Tower was their life, their aspirations and dreams.. and their prison. The mages existing outside of the Circle, was easily named Apostates, and brought to justice by the Templars. In the end, none of it mattered. Not now. He was here, and his life was sure to take a turn at this crossroad. For good or ill. I know He quietly replied to her, forcing a fake smile on his lips. I am ready as I ever will be. And more fortunately, you are here. He turned towards the door as he spoke. I didnt even thank you properly, did I? Heres to hoping that you will.. She quietly replied, also forcing a smile. Liam enjoyed the thought. An absurd side-quest; staying alive to thank her. I will. He finally put. Let us end this.

The door to Liams room stood shut. Stepping closer, they could both feel the magical mass on the other side of the door, like the heat of a large bonfire to those unattuned to magic, perhaps. Liam was wise enough to prepare beforehand. He closed his eyes and put the palms of his hands against each other. He started reciting a series of protection spells. These would help him shrug off magical and physical attacks to some

extent. As he finished the vocal component of the spell, he turned his right palm upwards, and gently raised it; and with it the magical barrier started encasing both his and Vhiernas body from toe to head. She was a bit surprised at his spell. This kind of spells would exert their caster continuously for their upkeep. Casting it on two instead of one, this would limit Liams capacity to cast other spells after it by a significant amount. She wondered for a moment, how strong was he really in magic? She tried not to show, but even she felt restless. She gauged how much aid should she render to him? How strong an opponent would he have to face? It was his battle after all, his rite of passage. She appeared as an alien in this game.. yet was at home all the same. Liam placed his hand on the handle of the door, and turned it in one direct motion. He pushed open the door. The magical glow in the room, came at them unrestrained this time. As he looked around his room, it looked so much different than the previous rooms in the sense that... It was exactly as he remembered it. Not destroyed, not laden with corpses. On the far end of the room, someone was sitting in front of his desk donning the circle robes. Even he did not look out of place, Liam thought. Ah.. you have arrived. The voice was also very familiar, yet it had a flowing quality to it, as if it was spoken by a stream of water. It was him, Vhierna knew immediately; yet she didnt make her deduction visible. I have tried to make you feel at home. Forgive me, if I... misplaced some people. The person continued, still facing his study desk. Who are you? Are you the one who killed Sareth?! Liam asked with a strong voice. The person chuckled. It does not matter what happened to them. After all, it is your time now. He slid back in his chair, and stood up; then turned to face the two. Liam grit his teeth as he turned, his face grew pale at the sight of the mysterious mages identity. It was himself. It appeared to be himself, yet he wasnt; he couldnt be! He stared bleakly at his doppelganger for a long moment with brooding anger. Vhierna on the other hand, kept her cool. She knew quite well it was an illusion, yet still didnt say anything. You are weak. False Liam spoke, his fiery eyes fixated on his real counterpart. You have always been. You barely made it here with your friends help. He pointed at Vhierna. Have you considered why did she aid you? His remark prompted Liam to glance at Vhierna at her side. His emotions were mixing inside of him. Anger, surely; but also denial, confusion... fear. He meant to speak, to ask her. All he got was a glance in return, void of expression; then it was interrupted again.

The denizens of the Fade whisper, Liam. The imposter said, pacing the room slowly as he spoke. The world you know... will soon change. Greatly. Many will take a part in this.. endeavor. Everything you saw at the tower today, will be made real. He spoke sternly, but slowly, savoring every word. Lies and madness is what you speak! None would pit himself against the Circle and the Order! Liam shot back, letting his anger vent through his words. False Liam laughed at this remark. You are weak and foolish then. He added. I will offer you a chance to choose your station in the coming tide, Liam! Allow me to add to your strength.. grant you great power over the arcane and the living alike! Be my conduit, and with our powers combined, you will always be on the winning side! He proposed, the rumbling in his voice growing louder and louder as he stressed his last words. After all.. you are not the type to question help, are you? He grinned as he stated. Liam was fuming with anger now. Do you take me for an uneducated whelp, demon? He bursted. I know your kind well enough, with plenty of reasons why NOT to harbor trust against! His audience didnt seem moved. Now tell me your true name, before I end you! Liam boldly spoke. He could feel his heart throbbing in his chest, his blood coursing faster in his veins. False Liam broke into an even louder, and evidently malevolent laughter. He knew his ruse was over. Yet he had achieved what he aimed for. His target was seething with anger. Delicious, he thought to himself. Pity he did not say yes in the first place though. Is that so now? He roared. Then let me lift the veil from your eyes, so even you may see your ineptitude, puny mage! False Liam raised his left hand and spoke a word incomprehensible to Liam; but not to Vhierna. She knew what was coming. It was time.

A nova of energy shot from the demon. Liam covered his face with his arms in anticipation of the shock. Yet it didnt hit him. He opened his eyes and lowered his arms a bit, looking to see what the spell really did. The room they were in had disappeared, the illusions shattered. They were standing on a barren piece of ground akin to every other part of the fade, except for a ring of lava encircling the area around them; like a moat. The scenery was hardly the only thing to have changed.

The figure of his false self was cracking. Fine lines of fiery light, flew down his eyes and to his arms and chest, growing larger. His robes caught fire and burned off him while his frame enlarged. Liam could now see the liquid fire that was the true image of the demon. It was a fearsome visage; an erect wave of pseudo-morphous lava, with two long arms extending from its body. The only other defining detail on the creature was the two small, malevolent eyes burning bright on its face; gazing intently at him. It was a Rage Demon, a being of living fire. Liam turned to look at Vhierna, to see if she was ready perhaps. Or perhaps to find strength and calm confidence in her presence with him; opposing the flux of emotions he had inside of him. What he found was something different altogether. Where Vhierna was moments ago, now stood another being as well. A being of light, shaped in a tall female form. It radiated a bright golden glow, which beneath, he could not see very clearly. He didnt know what to think anymore. He did not have the time neither; as he had been allowed only a couple of moments before the demon spoke again. Now its time for you to meet your end. Came the deep rumbling voice from the demon this time. He let out a final bellow as he began to charge at Liam. -to BURN in the hands of CHARR! Liam barely rolled out to his side to avoid the incoming collision. He could easily feel the emanating heat from the demon even under his magical protection. Getting close to the creature would literally burn him without them. Yet the roll also clicked his mind into action. He set aside his questions now, diverting his complete attention to the battle. He immediately recited the words of a spell as he was getting up, planting his palm on the ground to cast a magical rune over it. It was a repulsion rune, made to knock whoever steps into it backwards a considerable distance. Charr also recovering from his charge, turned to face Liam once again, charged ahead at him once more. Liam held fast and began charging another spell in his right hand. Spawning an orb of frost in his hand, he cast it towards the mass of fire charging towards him; hoping dearly his rune would act as it should. The blast of ice had hit squarely on the demon, and it groaned in rage and pain. But its momentum did not fail. He came fast towards Liam still, activating the rune just as he was extending his claws towards him. The following magical blast sent the fiery bulk splashing over to the ground behind it, like water from a broken glass. Liam did not wait. He immediately conjured another icy orb and lobbed it on the demon. Yet just as his spell hit the ground, the creatures remains sunk inside the ground, disappearing. Liam grit his teeth, looking around in creeping exhaustion. He was draining his strength fast. Neither the demon, nor Vhierna was visible around him. He breathed hard as he stood.

Then the ground under him trembled. It was too late once he felt the heat building below his shoes. He tried to lunge ahead to escape, but the demon emerged violently from behind him; knocking him hard on the ground with blazing force. Charr knew it was over now. One easy strike and he would feast on his remains. He would enjoy this moment. Liams magical barriers had shattered with his fall. He was not quite hurt, but was severely weakened now, his mana spent. He turned up to look at the demon closing in, unable to fight. Is this it then? Have I.. failed? he murmured to himself. You are..weak. Charr grunted. And now, you die! The demon leaped forth to end his prey as he taunted him a final time. Liam vainly tried to scuttle away, yet he knew he wouldnt be able to. A wave of heat came over him, intensifying rapidly. Heat turned to pain. And pain would turn toA huge clashing sound, accompanied by an explosion of light, halted all motion. It took Liam a long moment to realize he was still alive. Thats enough. Came another voice. Also flowing like the demons; but clearer and much gentler; almost calming. He knew it was her. You will not claim him, foul creature; Be gone! She continued. Liam turned around to look. The luminous figure had stopped the demon, and was standing in front of it with a commanding posture. Then she began channeling a spell, a massive vortex of magic began moving towards the demon. The demon, unable to fight back, was being torn apart by the spell, screaming in agony and spitting curses as he was pulled into the void, disappearing entirely in the eye of the spell.

Exhausted and in residual pain, Liam sat up, still looking at her. The spirit turned back to answer his gaze; and she did so with a subtle smile. Are you ok, Liam? She asked as she came towards him. Ive been better.. he answered gently, still full of questions. She leant down near him, and once again, began casting her mending magic on Liam. You are not Vhierna.. are you? You are not an elven ghost; certainly not a demon.. He said, grimacing slightly as his wounds were being bound. Yes, and no. replied the soothing voice. Part of me that was Vhierna, existed a very long time ago. And I have told you the truth of that. She continued to channel her spell as she answered.

But I am more than her. Names are.. elusive for our kind. She said But Prudence sounds fitting enough, I feel. We are also denizens of the fade; much like the demons, yet also polar opposites. Much like they exist as incarnations of emotions like rage and pride; we exist as embodiments of more benevolent virtues. Hope.. Faith.. Prudence.. Liam completed her sentence. Then have you deceived me from the start? Why did you really help me? Remember the demons words? Of dark times for your world? He spoke the truth. We have all felt it here. But as they lust for chaos and their own twisted desires beyond the veil; I felt compelled to act as well, to render my aid to the outer world She spoke gently, trying to explain as best as she could, but Liam still looked puzzled. When you tore the veil as you entered the fade, I followed you secretly. I decided to play along to get to know you, so I disguised myself as my previous.. partner, Vhierna; and planted myself in your way. Liam, feeling better now, stood up with some effort and dusted off his robes out of habit. You have aided me so far, so I assume you have found me worth of your time.. He guessed. But why hold back on the fight with the demon? She stepped closer to him. You told me yourself. It was your trial, Liam. I would have preferred you to end it with your own means...yet I could not bear to let you fall. Liam could now see her better. How the details of her figure shifted and fluctuated beneath her skin of light. He remembered how he found her elven look beautiful; yet this was.. divine, he thought. Liam, I cannot exist outside the fade without a willing host. Unlike the demons, I would never force myself onto a soul. She continued. I would ask for your permission.. to bond with you. Mixed emotions churned inside Liams gut again. He did not expect this.. yet he couldnt help but find her words sincere. You speak of possession.. He frowned. Not possession. Symbiosis. I would add my abilities to yours, if you would agree to put our combined will against the powers that would threaten your world. Prudence clarified as she looked sternly at him, her gaze piercing. A recollection of his life came in front of his eyes. All the significant things he had done in his life. All his choices as a person. They were not very numerous. All his life he had held on to the flowing way of the world, living off the spaces that were granted to him. Being a mage was the only path he knew, and it was because that was shown to him. Yet that path would have ended here, if she had not intervened. He would have failed, and that would have made no difference in the way of things in the world. He shifted his weight to his other foot, still feeling quite spent. Raising his eyes to meet Prudences, he thought this was his one chance to do something that mattered with his life. And for once, his path was his to choose.

I accept. He said firmly. He had made up his mind. I dont know what it will be like, but I pledge to lend aid when it will be needed. Prudence smiled sincerely. He could feel her warmth radiating over him. I am grateful Liam. She added softly. Are you ready? She asked after a moment of suspense. I think so.. what do I do? He replied, even more nervous now. Secretly, he was sad he was never going to see her again. Nothing.. just close your eyes. She almost chuckled. Standing there, Liam hadnt the tiniest idea of what to expect. He looked into her eyes faintly, taking in her beautiful visage one last time before he shut his eyes. Then he felt her warmth come closer. Her hands came gently around him, holding him in an intimate embrace. Instinctively, he moved to do the same; to hold her closer. As he gently tugged at her waist eyes still closed, her lips came to meet his. For an eternal moment, he felt disconnected from all realities. All worries and desires. He experienced his first kiss, as one that none other would even compare for the rest of his days. Then he felt her diffuse in his arms, into his body; he felt the light flow through him, augmenting his very being. And so they became one.

Depths of darkness covered his vision, cascading to infinity. He felt the transition of his presence, shifting through dimensions. He had crossed the veil back to the old reality. Look hes coming to! Came a voice over him. Liam are you ok? Came another. Is he clean, Irving? A brash, but wise voice asked. His words accompanied by the sound of steel being drawn. His sight returning as he opened his eyes, Liam saw the First Enchanter, as he leant closer to examine him. He moved as to get up. The Knight-Commander, Gregoir came into his sight; brandishing his great blade in his hands. First Enchanter Irving was a wise man. As knowledgeable as one could be on all things arcane in this day and age. He had easily noticed that Liam was more than he appeared to be on his return. Irving? the voice of the Kingt-Commander rung more urgently this time. Liam did not know how to respond. He tried his best to subconsciously tell Prudence to hide; If such a thing was possible. Yet Irving was no stranger to spirits from the fade. It was truly rare that such beings would commit their aid to mortals outside their realm; yet it was not exactly unheard of. Our friend here is a different person now, returning from his Harrowing, Gregoir. He stated, stepping in front of the Knight-Commander. He enjoyed teasing the templar for a moment. He passed his trial, and he is a true mage now. The circle welcomes you among its ranks Liam; Congratulations. He stated out louder.

Gregoir sighed as he sheathed his weapon. Help the lad up then. He commanded his other two men. Accompany him to his quarters. He earned his rest. Liam got up, greatly relieved by the outcome. Yet he still had one more thing in his mind to ask. First Enchanter- He prompted. How did Sareth fare earlier, please tell me. First Enchanter smiled under his beard. You may ask him that yourself when you get down my boy. He turned to walk away as Liam thanked him and started walking the other way. By the way Liam, I expect you in my study first thing tomorrow morning. He said as he left with Gregoir. The two templars walked with him also congratulated him as they descended the stairs. Yet another voice came from inside his head, more like a thought. By the way, the kiss wasnt really a part of the bonding. I just thought it was a good idea. He could picture her smiling. Smiling out as well, he replied with a single thought of his own as he walked on. Thank you.

THE END