Dragon Age Origins: The Tale of Solana

Chapter 21: The Joining at Last

They parted ways with Morrigan near the larger ruins of Ostagar. It was beginning to grow late, and Solana was more than joyed to be back before dark. It was within the darkly lit ruins that she saw Kip guarding near the Ash Warriors tents. She ran over with a smile. "Kip!"

The solider turned and saw his friend drawing near. Her blue eyes sparkled in the darkness, like a beacon of hope in the dark. He scooped the elf up and felt his heart do a quick little number as he set her down. "What are you doing out here?"

Solana had not expected to be picked up and twirled about. Her pale cheeks burned bright red, and she was speechless for a moment. His brown eyes were softly peering down at her, as if they had been lovers in past life. "What are you doing guarding the Ash Warriors?" she babbled thoughtlessly. "I thought you were to be in the Tower of Ishal?"

Alistair watched as the two exchanged pleasantries and he frowned. They seemed too happy together. Had the two bonded so quickly? He didn't understand the feeling he had deep down inside. He had hoped that her and him could bond so easily, but then again... No, he didn't want to think what might could happen after tonight.

Daveth suddenly came into his view. "What's with the face?"

Alistair shook his head and nearly growled at Daveth. "Nothing. Come on." He walked over to the two love birds.

"I'll be guarding the Tower in bit, just came to find you so..."

"Yes?"

Kip was finding it hard to form words with the beauty standing before him. She's married, Kip! Get a grip! He smiled tight. "I was going to congratulate you on you becoming a Grey Warden—"

"Well we still have a lot to do," Alistair commented as he walked gruffly past. "Come on, Duncan's waiting."

Solana gave an apologetic smile and followed suit. Daveth grinned big and Solana waved him away. Kip was a good friend, nothing more. Solana knew it would take time to let someone have her heart again, especially after Nelaros. She may not have loved him, but she felt sick with guilt over him. She wasn't sure if a human would exactly be the best suiter anyway. What would her father think?

They stopped by the Kennel Master to deliver the flower. He treated the hound, which had grown worse than before. Solana petted the mighty warrior. "How long before there's an improvement?"

"A day, maybe two," The man said scratching his beard. "There is enough ointment for him to make a full recovery. Why not come back after the battle? Perhaps we can try and see about imprinting him on you? I'm sure he'd thank you himself, if he could."

Solana exchanged a happy glance at Alistair who appeared to be sulking. She frowned and looked back at the Kennel Master. "You think that's possible?"

"Maybe. It's likely he understands you're responsible for curing him. Mabari are at least as smart as your average tax collector. Come back after the battle and just... Take another look."

At the large fire, which Duncan remained at, they waved him down. "So, you return from the Wilds. Have you been successful?"

"We have," Solana answered bravely.

"Good. I've had the Circle mages preparing. With the blood you retrieved, we can begin the Joining immediately."

Alistair was about to speak up when Solana accidently cut him off. "Sorry Alistair, you can go on."