Chapter 6: The Joining

Duncan was the leader of the Grey Wardens in Ferelden, the kingdom where the Blight had begun. He was the one who had invited Bhelen to join his order, and who had accepted me instead. He was the one who had escorted me to the surface, and who had taught me about its wonders and horrors.

He was a human, but he did not look down on me for being a dwarf. He was a warrior, but he did not judge me for being a prince. He was a Warden, but he did not hide anything from me about his mission and his duty.

He was kind, wise, brave. He was a mentor, a guide, a friend.

He brought me to Ostagar, a fortress where the king of Ferelden and his army were preparing to face the darkspawn horde. He introduced me to the other Grey Wardens, a diverse group of men and women from different races and backgrounds. He welcomed me to their camp, their home, their family.

He also told me about the Joining, the ritual that every Grey Warden had to undergo to become one of them. He explained that it involved drinking darkspawn blood, a dangerous and deadly act that could grant them special abilities or kill them instantly. He warned me that it was a secret and a sacrifice, a test and a choice.

He asked me if I was ready to join them. If I was willing to risk my life. If I was sure of my decision.

I looked at him, at the other Wardens, at the darkspawn army in the distance. I thought of Bhelen, of Orzammar, of Thedas. I felt fear, doubt, curiosity.

But I also felt courage, determination, purpose.

I nodded. I said yes. I joined them.