The Otherworlder 3: Entrapment

*The Otherworlder’s companions: Silverio carrying the Otherworlder, Barden, and Halani.* *Artwork by Kemvee.*

Takes place immediately after the events of The Otherworlder 2: The Heist.

You have been captured by Solas. As your friends vie to reach you and free you from your entrapment, you attempt to make Solas see reason, while using your connection to the Stone to imprint magical clues.

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Part 5
Part 6
Part 7
Part 8
Part 9

Part 1

Tears streaking down their faces, your friends stare after you through the indigo fire until you and Solas are out of sight. Onlookers emerge to gape and wonder. Finally, the flames dissipate.

Silverio scoops Halani and Barden up, hefting each of them over a shoulder, and darts forward, bounding in large strides.

‘It’s too late,’ Halani weeps.

‘No, I won’t accept it.’

‘Put us down – you’ll go faster,’ Barden voices.

Silverio lets them drop gently, crouching momentarily, and then quickly resumes his sprint. He veers around a corner into an alleyway. He circles in place, searching, frantic, eyes wide in horror as he breathes hard. The other two catch up to him, panting.

‘They’re gone,’ breathes Barden, ‘Solas and…’ his voice cracks and he stops.

‘This can’t be happening!’ cries Halani. ‘It can’t.’

‘I’ve failed to protect—’ Silverio clamps his mouth with a hand as his vision blurs further and he falls to his knees, a sob escapes his lips. Halani and Barden kneel beside him and the three weep into each other’s arms.

Barden is the first to pull away. ‘Look at us, sodding crybabies. We are strong, we are crafty, and resourceful. We mustn’t lose hope.’

‘We might not know where Solas took our friend,’ says Halani, nodding her agreement, ‘but we have allies. They can help us.’

Silverio wipes his eyes with the back of his gauntlet. ‘You’re right.’ He places a hand over his heart. ‘But it hurts to be separated from the Otherworlder.’

‘It does,’ Halani says softly. ‘I feel pain in me too.’

‘I feel like my world is breaking into chaos all over again,’ Barden expresses.

‘There is an emptiness inside me that can only be filled by our friend whom we all hold dear.’ Lifting one knee and placing a foot on the ground, Silverio rises. ‘We will find where Solas went. We will find our friend.’

The three of them march back to the location where the meeting with the Divine had taken place. Silverio bangs on the door and the guards admit them. They stride towards Leliana, whose expression changes as soon as she sees their tear-stricken faces and clocks your absence.

‘Tell me everything.’

***

Solas pulls you along the long passage that seems to drag forever. You vaguely remember reading how for humans, the Eluvian crossroads seem longer than for elves.

When you left your friends, Solas had rounded a corner and bound your hands in front of you. He divested you of your weapons, though you still wear your ring and amulet. Now he pulls you along to make it go faster as he navigates from Eluvian to Eluvian, muttering ancient Elvhen words to bypass the security and traps he himself undoubtedly laid there.

He speaks little except to instruct you.

Finally, you emerge into a Thaig. Cool air blows in from somewhere. Solas drags you into what looks like a sitting room and sits you down at a table. He leaves for a few moments. You stare at the open door, considering your options.

‘You would be wise not to try that,’ he calls out to you from the other room as you stand.

You curse under your breath and sit back down. Solas returns and places a plate of food before you. You blink at it before you laugh mirthlessly.

‘Eat,’ he instructs. ‘We have much to discuss. I need you in shape to share all that you know.’

You narrow your eyes at him. ‘You assume I will cooperate.’

‘You will,’ he asserts, with confidence and arrogance.

You fight the urge to roll your eyes. You decide to tell him exactly how you’ve always felt about him and his story arc.

NOTE: The following choice will determine how amenable Solas is towards you and how he interacts with you, whether he sees you as his ward or as his prisoner.

Summary: Your friends safekeep the Summoning Stone, spell box and key.
Gear: Ring of Elemental Protection, Amulet of Lashing Pride, basic gear, dagger-sword, short bow with a quiver of infinite arrows.
You previously met Caius, the Venatori mage who summoned you, and learnt of your bound soul to the Summoning Stone. A Diplomacy and a Cunning advantage allowed you to learn Venatori secrets. Halani saved your life and killed Caius.
Empress Celene Valmont rules Orlais in this World State. A Strength choice has allocated you Orlais’s army for the future.
Leliana is the Divine in this World State. A Cunning choice has allocated you information from the Inquisition and Chantry spies for the future.
You have been captured by Solas.
Diplomacy: 5 (Maxed out.)
Strength: 2
Cunning: 4

Part 2

You place your bound hands in front of you and lean forward in your seat.

‘Solas, I want to help, but not to destroy Thedas. I believe there may be a better way, and perhaps it is through me that you will find that way. I know you’re not closed to the idea. I ask simply that you trust me so together we may restore what you wish without destroying Thedas. Thedas is in peril already. It needs you, Solas, it needs a god, and I’m hoping you can be that god for Thedas, as I can be a friend to you.’

‘I am touched that you believe in me or that I may achieve my goals through different means.’ Solas looks genuinely moved.

‘I mean it. Solas, Thedas needs you,’ you repeat. ‘You are its creator.’

Solas shakes his head. ‘Not in the way most understand it.’

‘Perhaps, but in the way we understand it. You shaped it. Its beings need you.’

Solas downcasts his eyes. ‘My ritual has already begun.’

‘Yes, and I’m not here to stop it, but maybe we can find a way where Thedas is saved, where the worlds coexist, a new era for a new Thedas, with you as its creator and saviour. If I can help you find that better way, I will.’

Solas studies you for a moment, his expression inscrutable.

‘All right, you have my attention. If you can find another way, then I will relent that I was wrong, but I must warn you, if you cannot, I will not be swayed.’

You nod, then steel yourself for the inevitable. You might as well begin before he demands it of you.

‘So here’s the thing, Solas, me being here changes things, I don’t know how, but it does. Already with the Venatori after me, summoning me… What I have is but knowledge, yet there is no telling how that will affect anything.’

‘Whenever you’re ready to begin, I’m listening,’ he implores.

Regardless of his tone or his words – or yours – you are still his prisoner and bound. You slowly lift your hand to your collarbone and activate the amulet…only to be hit with the hot pain of lightning. You curse out a cry.

‘I’m sorry, I had to ensure your magic wouldn’t counter mine. I set a defensive counter-spell upon your amulet and ring.’

Solas rises and walks to you. ‘Here, as a show of good faith.’ He unbinds your hands. ‘Please, show me that I can trust you, and do not attack me again.’

You stare down at your hands as Solas passes his above them, soft magical light shimmering for a moment. He does the same for your amulet.

‘There, the counter-spell has been lifted. Let’s begin anew.’ He holds out his hand to you and you shake it, meeting his gaze, and the two of you nod in silent agreement.

***

Leliana clasps her hands together. ‘As you know, the Venatori wish to use the Otherworlder against Solas, as would anyone, I presume. The information our mutual friend shared is valuable beyond measure.’

‘Except Solas has the Otherworlder now,’ Barden complains, ‘and he’s going to try to gain the upper hand from it.’

‘Unless we stop him,’ growls Silverio.

‘We have to assess what we know to think clearly,’ Halani offers. ‘Solas and the Venatori aren’t our only threats who could exploit the Otherworlder for their gains. Remember what Caius said about an ancient source of magic that isn’t the Dread Wolf?’

‘We really got ourselves in one when we banded together, didn’t we?’ Barden mutters.

Silverio whirls on him. ‘If you have any regrets and wish to leave,’ he points in its direction, ‘the door is that way!’

Barden narrows his eyes. ‘You think I’m not heartbroken? You think I only care about myself?’

‘You certainly act like it,’ Silverio accuses, getting dangerously in Barden’s face.

‘Gentlemen, please!’ Halani implores.

‘I’ll have you know I care more about the Otherworlder than I’ve ever cared about anyone else,’ Barden sputters angrily, ‘including myself.’ Silverio turns away and Barden sighs. ‘There are only two others I care just as much for, and that’s you two.’

The room is quiet for a moment.

‘You care…about me?’ Silverio asks from over his shoulder. Barden nods, and Silverio pulls him into a hug. Both of them reach for Halani and she steps into the embrace.

‘I feel the same way, by the way,’ she voices, ‘but the two of you are…exasperating.’

Silverio plasters on a grin. ‘That just makes me enticing.’

Halani rolls her eyes and slaps his arm before the three turn back to Leliana, who, suppressing a laugh in her hand, clears her throat.

‘Inquisition spies have discovered,’ she resumes, ‘that a group of Qunari Antaam wish to capture the Otherworlder, also to learn everything they can. To what end, we do not know, but I assume they wish to use the knowledge for their invasion. Knowing what we know of the Qunari and the Antaam, it is safe to assume they are prepared to have our friend suffer the worst tortures.’

‘Great,’ Barden says sarcastically. ‘Venatori, Qunari, Solas. Anyone else?’

‘You protect the Summoning Stone, yes?’ Leliana inquires. ‘I know someone who may be able to help find the Otherworlder through it.’

Silverio, Halani and Barden all widen their eyes. ‘Who?’

Summary: Your friends safekeep the Summoning Stone, spell box and key.
Gear: Ring of Elemental Protection, Amulet of Lashing Pride, basic gear, dagger-sword, short bow with a quiver of infinite arrows.
You previously met Caius, the Venatori mage who summoned you, and learnt of your bound soul to the Summoning Stone. A Diplomacy and a Cunning advantage allowed you to learn Venatori secrets. Halani saved your life and killed Caius.
Empress Celene Valmont rules Orlais in this World State. A Strength choice has allocated you Orlais’s army for the future.
Leliana is the Divine in this World State. A Cunning choice has allocated you information from the Inquisition and Chantry spies: that Qunari Antaam are also after the Otherworlder.
You have been captured by Solas. You told him you want to find a better way. Solas views you as his ward.
Diplomacy: 5 (Maxed out.) / Strength: 2 / Cunning: 4
Magic: 0
History: 0
Secrets: 0

Part 3

Having had business in Orlais, it doesn’t take long before Dorian arrives to meet your friends. Leliana fills him in on the important details.

Dorian holds out his hand. ‘It would help if I could study this Summoning Stone more closely.’

Halani and Barden look at Silverio, who hesitates.

‘I understand your friend’s soul is linked to this stone. I promise I will hold it with the utmost care.’ Dorian’s voice is as soothing as it is assertive.

Silverio pulls the Summoning Stone from his satchel and hands it over. Leliana stands idly by, observing.

Dorian turns the stone over slowly, examining it. He mumbles to himself. ‘Quite the unique artefact, I should say. The Venatori certainly don’t hold back on quality. Of course, as if that compensates for the horrid sacrifices. The more extensive and elaborate an item of magic is, and the more powerful it is, the more sacrifices are required.’ Dorian clicks his tongue. ‘Those poor fools.’

Silverio gets right in Dorian’s face, tall and imposing. ‘Who are you calling fools! Those people died as sacrifices without consent! They had no choice!’

‘Silverio!’ Despite her diminutive form in comparison to Silverio, Halani pulls him back. ‘It’s okay,’ she soothes.

‘I apologise. I meant no offence. I am appalled by the actions of the Venatori, just as are you. I merely meant it is a shame so many lost their lives.’

‘Some of the souls trapped within that stone are people these fine folks cared deeply for,’ Leliana adds.

‘I understand.’

Silverio continues to glare at Dorian who offers him a smile of sympathy before Silverio averts his eyes.

‘I believe I may be able to add a spell of my own to help us find where your friend is, yes. Now, please, I require the summoning spell.’

Barden uses his key to unlock the box Halani holds out. They hand over the spell to Dorian.

‘How charming, it’s in Ancient Tevene. At least now I have something useful I can put those dreadfully boring hours of study towards.’

Adding his own magic to the spell, Dorian pronounces the words written by the Venatori in Ancient Tevene. As he holds his hand above the stone, his fingers begin to glow with magic of an indigo hue. A shadow of dark purple bursts from his hand and the stone vibrates.

A tall ghostly figure appears before the group, a beautiful woman, whose long black hair falls to her waist. She wears dark leathers, marking her faction unmistakably. She turns to Silverio, shimmering, and smiles.

Silverio clamps a hand to his mouth as tears glisten in his eyes.

‘Hello, brother,’ the ghost speaks. Her voice is soft, her accent identical to her brother’s.

‘Antonina,’ he whispers at last.

Her smile widens before her eyes crease in sympathy. ‘Do not weep for me, brother, I am long dead. Our chance to speak now is a gift, one we will not be able to repeat.’

‘The one who did this to you is dead,’ Silverio whispers roughly.

‘I know.’ Her eyes dart to Halani and she offers her a kind smile of gratitude before returning her attention to Silverio.

‘You will need to let go of me, Silverio, for one day, you will need to destroy the stone.’

Everyone gasps.

‘How can we without destroying our friend?’

‘I do not hold the answer to that, brother, but I know that when the time comes, you will.’ Her ghostly body shimmers again, crackling for a moment. ‘Our time is running out. I was able to perceive where they are, Solas and the Otherworlder.’

Antonina’s eyes grow distant. ‘They are in a Thaig high in the mountains. The statue of a dwarven Paragon stands near the snowy peak. I see Arlathan Forest to the west,’ she smiles fondly, ‘and Antiva to the south.’

‘The White Spire.’

Antonina refocuses on Silverio, whose eyes never left hers. ‘Live well, my brother. Always follow your heart.’

Silverio silently reaches for his sister’s face but his hand goes right through her incorporeal form. He bows his head, solemn. The apparition fades.

For a moment everyone remains silent. Dorian returns the items to your friends.

‘Now, it would help if you connected with the Otherworlder through the stone.’

‘Will the Otherworlder hear us?’ asks Halani.

‘Your friend will perceive your intent,’ Dorian confirms.

Silverio holds the stone gently, placing a hand on one side. Halani comes to stand beside him and Barden on his other side, and they each place a hand on the stone as well.

Dorian casts a quick spell on your three companions with a burst of light. ‘There, that should help amplify your message.’ They now stand encased in a magical bubble.

Silverio caresses the stone, his voice just above a whisper. ‘I will find you, and I will steal you back, for this thief’s heart has been stolen by the human from the Otherworld.’

***

It is a rare moment when you are alone, at night, longing in your heart between restlessness and sporadic sleep from so many conversations with Solas already.

You feel the familiar warmth of a hand on the small of your back. No one stands behind you, but it is unmistakably Silverio, and you know he is conveying a message to you. It brings you solace.

You feel a tender squeeze on your shoulder, a strong hand, firm and comforting, and it emboldens you. You just know Barden is speaking to you through this action.

***

Barden squeezes once more. ‘I’m not ready to be without a purpose again. My purpose is to find you, and whatever else happens, it is to be by your side.’

Halani strokes the stone, trailing her fingers gently. ‘I don’t know if you can hear me through this thing, but I can assure you, I’m going to save you.’

***

You feel a soft tingle run down your arm, one that makes you smile, and you just know Halani is showing you you are in her thoughts.

***

Silverio, Halani and Barden wrap their arms around each other, the stone in the centre of their embrace.

Silverio whispers tenderly, ‘I will hunt you.’

‘I will find you,’ Barden whispers with as much caring.

‘I will save you,’ Halani completes.

All three speak together, ‘I promise!’

***

You just know, no matter how long it takes, that you will be reunited with your friends again. Your heart tugs with a sweet ache, a yearning you can no longer ignore, though you are uncertain for which of them you feel it if not for all three.

Uncertain if they can hear you, you whisper, ‘Find me…

Summary: Your friends safekeep the Summoning Stone, spell box and key.
Gear: Ring of Elemental Protection, Amulet of Lashing Pride, basic gear, dagger-sword, short bow with a quiver of infinite arrows.
You previously met Caius, the Venatori mage who summoned you, and learnt of your bound soul to the Summoning Stone. A Diplomacy and a Cunning advantage allowed you to learn Venatori secrets. Halani saved your life and killed Caius.
Empress Celene Valmont rules Orlais in this World State. A Strength choice has allocated you Orlais’s army for the future.
Leliana is the Divine in this World State. A Cunning choice has allocated you information from the Inquisition and Chantry spies: that Qunari Antaam are also after the Otherworlder.
You have been captured by Solas. You told him you want to find a better way. Solas views you as his ward.
Dorian helped your friends learn where Solas has taken you – the White Spire, north of Antiva.
Diplomacy: 5 (Maxed out.) / Strength: 2 / Cunning: 4
Magic: 0
History: 1
Secrets: 0

Part 4

The door to your room opens and Solas stands in the doorway. ‘Rise. We must speak.’

You reply as though having a two-way conversation with yourself. ‘Good morning, Otherworlder, how did you sleep? Not so well. Oh, I’m sorry to hear, I brought you a nice hot mug of—’

‘I’m sorry, but we have little time. If we are to find a way to find alternatives before anyone who is after you finds us, best we do so as soon as possible.’

‘But you’re the Dread Wolf, you can petrify them.’

‘An army is more difficult to defeat, especially when I must protect another.’

‘Aw, you want to protect me? I’m touched.’

Solas suppresses a smile. ‘You are not what I expected, and yet you are everything I expected.’

‘Cryptic as ever, I see.’

Solas chuckles. ‘Did you expect me to be any different?’

You let out a laugh, tossing the blankets away, and stand from the bed. You point at Solas. ‘Got me there, my good man, Solas.’

He observes you as you walk towards him. ‘I noticed you lack the artefact that brought you to this realm. Either you hide it well or your friends safekeep it for you. It may have helped us, but no matter, we’ll make do without it.’

You look down at yourself. ‘Yeah, my friends have the Summoning Stone and the other things that might have made me a bigger target had I them on my person.’

‘Good. Though it makes your friends targets, it will delay whoever is after you, which gives me and us more time.’

He casts his eyes down, there is an unspoken sadness in them. You reach a hand to his arm instinctively and gently squeeze.

He smiles at you, though it does not reach his eyes. ‘You have a good heart. It will make…parting more difficult, but it must be done once we find our solution.’

You nod, thinking you understand, yet there is something strange about the way he said it that leaves you feeling unnerved.

‘What can I do to help you in return?’ Solas offers after a moment of silence.

‘You’re not going to answer my burning questions, are you?’ you conclude.

Solas grins cheekily, giving you your answer.

‘Okay, well, here’s what I propose, then:

Summary: Your friends safekeep the Summoning Stone, spell box and key.
Gear: Ring of Elemental Protection, Amulet of Lashing Pride, basic gear, dagger-sword, short bow with a quiver of infinite arrows.
You previously met Caius, the Venatori mage who summoned you, and learnt of your bound soul to the Summoning Stone. A Diplomacy and a Cunning advantage allowed you to learn Venatori secrets. Halani saved your life and killed Caius.
Empress Celene Valmont rules Orlais in this World State. A Strength choice has allocated you Orlais’s army for the future.
Leliana is the Divine in this World State. A Cunning choice has allocated you information from the Inquisition and Chantry spies: that Qunari Antaam are also after the Otherworlder.
You have been captured by Solas. You told him you want to find a better way. Solas views you as his ward.
Dorian helped your friends learn where Solas has taken you – the White Spire, north of Antiva.
Diplomacy: 5 (Maxed out.) / Strength: 2 / Cunning: 4
Magic: 1
History: 1
Secrets: 0

Part 5

Your friends pull away from each other as the magical bubble around them dissipates.

‘Is it just me, or did I, a dwarf, have a magical vision? Did the two of you see what I saw?’

‘If what you saw was an Eluvian…’ says Halani. Barden confirms that it was.

‘I saw it as well, many of them,’ voices Silverio.

‘It appears your friend received your messages,’ Dorian confirms. ‘At least your touch and your intent. I believe the Otherworlder conveyed a message back to you.’

‘There was an Eluvian in the alley after Solas took—’ Barden stops, unable to continue. Silverio rubs the dwarf’s nape in shared sorrow and Barden leans into him.

‘There was always the possibility that Solas travelled through different means as well,’ said Halani. ‘One Eluvian does not mean many. The vision showed endless pathways and multiple Eluvians. It was an elaborate labyrinth. I’m not entirely sure how we can use this knowledge.’

‘Solas controls the Eluvians,’ says Leliana. ‘It would be difficult to reach the White Spire through them, though we can verify the ones we know. If we can provide enough forces against Solas, send spies through the Eluvians to fight him, or at least alert him to our presence there, it may distract him from your presence when you storm on the White Spire.’

Dorian lets out a triumphant laugh. ‘Do I get to lead this distraction? I would rather have a valid excuse not to return to the Magisterium so soon.’

‘Then it is decided,’ Leliana confirms.

‘Thank you for all your help!’ Halani takes Dorian’s hands in hers.

‘It is my absolute pleasure.’ Dorian nods to all three before your companions head out.

‘Time to cash in on that army the Empress promised us,’ says Barden. ‘With the Inquisition leading an assault on the Eluvians, if the army can storm the White Spire with us…’

Halani and Silverio agree with the plan.

They’ve travelled but a short distance before they are intercepted by a group of Venatori who quickly surround them.

Silverio doesn’t wait, crossing his arms in front of him, he unleashes a set of poisoned darts. He barrel rolls forward, unsheathing his daggers from his back, and slashes one of the Venatori dead.

Barden swings his axe, beheading one of the spellbinders mid-incantation. Halani unleashes multiple arrows, taking a low stance, and aiming for their throats.

One of the Venatori shouts. ‘Halani! You killed Caius.’

Halani curses under her breath. ‘Now?! this comes to haunt me?’ She rolls to the side, avoiding a spell of lightning magic. ‘He deserved his end,’ she spits back.

‘As do you.’ A Venaori looms above her, bringing his staff down hard upon her. She reflexively shields herself, bringing up her arm, blocking with her bow. An axe lodges itself into the Venatori’s back – the Venatori’s face goes blank and he drops his staff before slumping lifelessly.

Another Venatori comes behind Barden and casts a magical prison around him. Silverio lunges at the Venatori, pressing a dagger to his throat and slices clean. The prison breaks and Barden is freed.

But more Venatori overwhelm them, as they slash and block, thrust and parry, blow after blow, arrow after arrow.

‘These aren’t just Venatori! Mierda!’ Silverio curses in Antivan.

A sinister chuckle draws his attention to a tall woman who inclines her head to the side. ‘And you thought yourself the best Crow, Silverio.’ She points at him. ‘You are my mark.’

Silverio hisses. Dwarves join the mass of fighters.

‘Sodding Maker!’ shouts Barden. ‘It had to be Carta. Just my luck.’

‘You see, we’re all working together.’ The female Crow unsheathes a sword that glints brightly, catching the light of the sun.

Silverio, Halani, and Barden pause as their enemies stop fighting them, circling them. They seem to revel in their apparent victory as they close in on the three.

Out of nowhere a war cry rises and a figure lands in the midst of the poised-to-kill Venatori, Crows, and Carta, brows furrowed in concentration. Your friends gasp at the person who has come to help them, an ally whom they did not expect.

Summary: Your friends safekeep the Summoning Stone, spell box and key.
Gear: Ring of Elemental Protection, Amulet of Lashing Pride, basic gear, dagger-sword, short bow with a quiver of infinite arrows.
You previously met Caius, the Venatori mage who summoned you, and learnt of your bound soul to the Summoning Stone. A Diplomacy and a Cunning advantage allowed you to learn Venatori secrets. Halani saved your life and killed Caius.
Empress Celene Valmont rules Orlais in this World State. A Strength choice has allocated you Orlais’s army for the future.
Leliana is the Divine in this World State. A Cunning choice has allocated you information from the Inquisition and Chantry spies: that Qunari Antaam are also after the Otherworlder.
You have been captured by Solas. You told him you want to find a better way. Solas views you as his ward. He will grant you an Ancient Tome.
Dorian helped your friends learn where Solas has taken you – the White Spire, north of Antiva.
Diplomacy: 5 (Maxed out.) / Strength: 2 / Cunning: 4
Magic: 1
History: 2
Secrets: 0

Part 6

His lyrium veins glowing blue, Fenris slices through the air with his broadsword, cleanly cutting down several of the attackers. A Venatori comes at him, Fenris plunges his fist through his assailant’s abdomen whose eyes widen in shock before Fenris pulls out.

Shaking their surprise, your friends cry out and join Fenris to take down any of the remaining enemies. With Fenris adding to your friends’ abilities, and surprise now on their side, they turn the tables and gain the advantage.

Silverio bounds forward, crossing his daggers. Fenris ducks to slash at an enemy’s feet while the Antivan thief plunges his daggers into the oncoming Carta dwarf. Silverio bends sideways, placing a hand on the ground to kick another attacker away. Halani dances up Silverio’s arm, and jumps off his back, sending arrows the whole time. Barden hacks away with his axe, plundering through those in his path.

With many enemies downed, many others flee the scene, and your friends and Fenris make quick work of those who remain.

Panting, the three turn to Fenris. ‘Thank you, friend,’ says Silverio, ‘I am uncertain we would have been able to defeat them without your help.’

‘Consider yourselves fortunate I was passing by. When I heard Venatori incantations, I couldn’t resist attacking them,’ says Fenris. He studies the group. ‘What brings a human, an elf, and a dwarf through these parts?’

‘We’re travelling to the White Spire,’ explains Halani. ‘Solas has captured our friend whom we wish to rescue.’

‘Perhaps you’ve heard rumours of an Otherworlder?’ asks Barden.

Fenris ponders for a moment. ‘Coincidentally, yes.’

Your friends briefly fill him in on the rest.

Fenris turns his back to them and starts away. ‘Then I suggest you come with me. I have a chariot we can use to make travel more speedy.’ He pauses and looks over his shoulder at them. ‘I had intended on bringing a shipment of wares back to my contacts in the Inquisition. If they are helping you, I’m certain they won’t mind the delay.’

‘Thank you. However, first…’

Together with their new ally, your friends make their way to the appointed spot where they meet with their Orlesian contact.

Empress Celene greets them politely, bowing slightly from the waist, her hands daintily held before her abdomen.

‘Yes, I confirm: I will send the army ahead to the White Spire and they will travel with haste and clear a path for you in battle so you may get to your friend more quickly. They will throw everything they have at the Dread Wolf.’

‘Thank you so much, Empress!’ all three echo.

After a few more pleasantries, your friends leave the Empress and make preparations for the trip to the White Spire. At night, they make camp. Fenris sits several paces away, minding his own business.

‘The past months felt like…’ begins Silverio as all three of them sit by the fire.

‘Like my life was more meaningful than it’s ever been,’ says Halani.

‘Like I had a purpose again,’ voices Barden.

‘A heaviness was lifted from my heart,’ Silverio completes.

Barden declares, ‘The Otherworlder is my purpose now, the reason why I haven’t gone mad. Never has anyone made me feel this way before.’ He places a hand over his heart. ‘And I will do everything in my power to save the one who is my purpose. That is why I am heartened by the trust our friend has in me.’

Halani declares, ‘I found the Otherworlder first, and I never knew what it would lead to, but from the start, I felt something, I knew my life would change. I have experienced more freedom from the feelings I feel than ever before, and I will free our friend, for my heart longs for the Otherworlder. The trust our friend has in us gives me hope, and I know our friend knows my feelings in some way.’

‘I promised the Otherworlder protection,’ Silverio laments, ‘and I failed – all I did was stare…it felt like my heart was stilled. I would make our friend my lover for real because I am completely enraptured… A knife twists in my heart that the one who trusts me could not be protected by me. I will give my life if I have to, to save our friend from that demon. I will die a thousand times over if it means the Otherworlder will be safe, for I cannot live without knowing the one I love is safe.’

‘Look,’ says Barden, ‘it doesn’t matter whether the Otherworlder chooses me or either of you.’ He bows his head. ‘I just want our friend safe.’

‘So do I,’ Halani says softly.

‘As do I,’ declares Silverio. He wraps his arms around all three of them. ‘And the love I feel for our friend does not change the way I feel about the two of you.’

Halani looks up at Silverio. ‘Somehow, that comforts me.’

‘And gives me hope to find my purpose once more,’ says Barden.

Barden and Halani return Silverio’s embrace warmly and Silverio presses a soft kiss to each of their foreheads.

Fenris clears his throat, approaching. ‘Not to interrupt your…moment, but I believe we have a visitor.’

An agent of the spymaster approaches and bows, hand on her heart. ‘Chantry spies report the Qunari are already headed for the White Spire, Ser.’

‘Then we must press on even more!’ Barden urges. Halani and Silverio agree.

***

Time passes where you explain more to Solas and he seems more and more amenable to your idea of finding a different way, even though you have not yet found it, together you explore possibilities.

You notice Solas working on a new ritual, spellwork of a kind you’ve never before seen in Thedas.

‘That looks…colourful.’

‘You like it?’

You decide to ask him directly.

Summary: Your friends safekeep the Summoning Stone, spell box and key.
Gear: Ring of Elemental Protection, Amulet of Lashing Pride, basic gear, dagger-sword, short bow with a quiver of infinite arrows.
You previously met Caius, the Venatori mage who summoned you, and learnt of your bound soul to the Summoning Stone. A Diplomacy and a Cunning advantage allowed you to learn Venatori secrets. Halani saved your life and killed Caius.
Empress Celene Valmont rules Orlais in this World State. A Strength choice has allocated you Orlais’s army – they will ride ahead of you and clear a path.
Leliana is the Divine in this World State. A Cunning choice has allocated you information from the Inquisition and Chantry spies: that Qunari Antaam are also after the Otherworlder.
You have been captured by Solas. You told him you want to find a better way. Solas views you as his ward. He will grant you an Ancient Tome.
Dorian helped your friends learn where Solas has taken you – the White Spire, north of Antiva.
Fenris has joined your friends.
Diplomacy: 5 (Maxed out.) / Strength: 2 / Cunning: 4
Magic: 1
History: 3
Secrets: 0

Part 7

Solas furrows his brows. ‘You are astute, Otherworlder.’ He returns his attention to his spell. ‘It is something I believe may help us both.’

You perk up, sitting straighter. ‘What is it?’

‘That…I cannot tell you.’

You roll your eyes and cross your arms. ‘Of course.’ You put on your mock sophisticated Solas voice. ‘Oh hey, a new spell, it’s going to help you and help me, but I can’t tell you what it is because reasons, because secrets, because I’m Solas.’

Solas chuckles. ‘Well, yes, for those very reasons you mentioned.’ He cannot hide his amusement as he continues to smirk to himself, despite his obvious attempt at suppressing it.

After another moment, he pauses, sobering. ‘I promised you an answer to your earlier question – how I found out about you. I have also found that which I can give you in return for your help.’ He takes a beat. ‘My agents heard whispers about a Venatori mage who had unlocked the secret to glimpsing into dimensions of worlds unknown.’

‘Caius,’ you whisper.

‘Once I found him, I shadowed his movements.’

‘You were there that night I was summoned,’ you state, remembering seeing Solas in the distance.

‘This encounter, our meeting, you and I, was always inevitable. Your friends, however, put up a formidable defensive barrier.’

You chuckle. ‘I don’t know what I’d do without them.’

‘I would have found you that night, and taken you from Caius. He was careless, leaving the summoning site. Too arrogant.’

You arch a brow. ‘Oh, and you’re not?’

Solas mock-glares at you before a chuckle escapes his lips. He slides a tome across the table to you. ‘For your help. This tome is from the time of my people. It is written in Elvhen.’

‘Why are you giving it to me?’

Solas studies you for a moment. ‘Because I believe you deserve answers once we have parted ways. I have added to this tome. If you can decipher the text, then you deserve the secrets contained within.’

‘Solas…whenever you speak of us parting ways…you get a certain glint in your eyes. What’s going on? Why do you always seem so regretful?’

Solas’s face changes from confident to saddened. He downcasts his eyes. ‘Regretful? No. But pained? Yes.’

‘Why?’ The two of you stare at each other, you have the nagging feeling Solas is up to something. ‘You can tell me.’ Your voice is kind, understanding – you just want answers.

‘There was a time when making a
Difficult choice would break my heart,
It tore my soul and I could barely go on.

‘In recent times I’ve had to quell
All fear and heartache lest I fail,
Thus I steel myself and resign to my fate.

‘I will do all
That I must now,
Though it pains me,
I will not regret.’

Solas looks at you apologetically. ‘I’m sorry…’

He lashes his magic out at you, stunning you in place – you can’t even cry out in alarm. He drags you to a pillar and ties you up, hands bound behind you and the pillar, legs bound so tightly you almost fall if not for the pillar holding you up.

‘You are too valuable to me right now. I will go ensure my pathway is secure. I cannot trust you will not run off on me now. I will return to you to complete what we have begun. Then…we will part ways.’

Solas leaves you ‘standing’ there as you struggle against your bonds.

***

Your friends arrive at the mouth of the Thaig, weapons drawn and ready to barge in and free you from Solas.

Fenris halts them and steps ahead. ‘Go on, I will cause a distraction out here that will help you escape. Good luck.’

Fenris lunges into the fray of fighting Qunari, slicing and hacking away with his broadsword, his lyrium veins glowing blue. He easily strikes through a Saarebas, who gasps in shock as Fenris rips the Qunari apart with glowing fist and slashing blade.

Further along, flashes of magic erupt, and a familiar voice shouts out, ‘I could do this all day!’

‘Go!’ Fenris cries out, ‘I’ve got this.’

Fenris and Dorian acknowledge each other as they continue their onslaught against the Antaam.

Your friends run into the Thaig, fighting Antaam as they go, spilling their blood and avoiding their blows. The Orlesian army is keeping most of the Antaam busy, distracting them from your friends. When the Orlesian General sees the three of them, the army goes full berzerk on the Antaam, luring them further and further away from where your friends must go.

Barden ducks and finds a side passage. Everyone follows him.

Solas intercepts them, already looking very annoyed by the Antaam attacking his lair.

‘I did not think you’d reach me so soon, though it doesn’t matter, I have almost completed the spell I must cast. I simply need to subdue you until I am ready to use what you possess.’

Silverio points a dagger at Solas. ‘Release the Otherworlder. Now!’

‘We won’t ask again,’ claims Barden.

‘And we won’t stop until we’ve freed our friend,’ declares Halani.

Solas smirks before chuckling in condescension. ‘Very well, have it your way.’ He pounds his staff down onto the ground.

Your friends dodge the magical attack.

Silverio lunges at Solas, dagger raised. At the same time, Barden leaps to Solas’s flank, while Halani nocks an arrow and sets it loose at the ancient elf.

Solas unleashes a magical storm of frost before turning his attention to one of them, calculating and aiming for the artefact that links to the Otherworlder, that links to you – Summoning Stone, spell box, or key.

Who gets Solas’s attention?

Summary: Your friends safekeep the Summoning Stone, spell box and key.
Gear: Ring of Elemental Protection, Amulet of Lashing Pride, basic gear, dagger-sword, short bow with a quiver of infinite arrows.
You previously met Caius, the Venatori mage who summoned you, and learnt of your bound soul to the Summoning Stone. A Diplomacy and a Cunning advantage allowed you to learn Venatori secrets. Halani saved your life and killed Caius.
Empress Celene Valmont rules Orlais in this World State. A Strength choice has allocated you Orlais’s army – they have ridden ahead of your friends and cleared a path.
Leliana is the Divine in this World State. A Cunning choice has allocated you information from the Inquisition and Chantry spies: that Qunari Antaam are also after the Otherworlder.
You have been captured by Solas. You told him you want to find a better way. Solas views you as his ward. He has granted you an Ancient Elven Tome.
Dorian helped your friends learn where Solas has taken you – the White Spire, north of Antiva.
Fenris has joined your friends.
Diplomacy: 5 (Maxed out.) / Strength: 2 / Cunning: 4
Magic: 1
History: 3
Secrets: 1

Part 8

Solas sidesteps, avoiding the arrow by a hair. Halani hisses a curse in frustration, as does Barden whose axe lands heavily onto the ground as though weighted by magic.

Solas lifts his staff and a bolt of ancient Elvhen magic hits Silverio in the stomach at his satchel. Silverio’s hands dart to protect the item that connects to you, to protect you.

Gritting his teeth and bearing the brunt of the pain, Silverio falls to his knees, and lets out a strangled cry.

Barden and Halani shout out Silverio’s name as Solas scowls.

‘Your loyalty to your friend will be your downfall,’ Solas declares, whipping up a storm of ice magic. Your friends huddle beside a still groaning Silverio and all three glare at Solas. ‘The same fate awaits you.’

Silverio stands. ‘Let me guess, death?’ He reaches into his satchel and wraps his large hand protectively around the Summoning Stone.’

Solas grins. ‘Better than death. For even with your death, you would still exist in the Fade.’

Barden spreads caltrops around Solas, interrupting his magical blizzard.

‘Oof, feel the warmth anew,’ the dwarf breathes out his relief.

Solas retaliates with a magical stone fist that sends your friends sprawling onto their backs several feet away from him.

‘It is clear to me I need to rid this world of you for good.’

Barden signals the other two, pointing at what he believes may activate a gate. All three kick the rusted lever as hard as they can. Pebbles rain down as the Thaig around them quakes.

A large slab of stone falls between Solas and your companions, sending him staggering in the dust before it settles. He is now separated from them and from the passage that leads back to you. He must find another way to stop them, which gives them time to reach you.

They run towards the room where you are being held. They stop at the doorway and gape at you, calling out your name.

Your heart is heavy, realising just how much your companions mean to you. You lift your eyes and meet the stare of your friends, and your heart swells. It is more than relief that which you feel. You have true feelings, and know that they do as well. And you know to whom your heart belongs.

Summary: Your friends safekeep the Summoning Stone, spell box and key.
Gear: Ring of Elemental Protection, Amulet of Lashing Pride, basic gear, dagger-sword, short bow with a quiver of infinite arrows.
You previously met Caius, the Venatori mage who summoned you, and learnt of your bound soul to the Summoning Stone. A Diplomacy and a Cunning advantage allowed you to learn Venatori secrets. Halani saved your life and killed Caius.
Empress Celene Valmont rules Orlais in this World State. A Strength choice has allocated you Orlais’s army – they have ridden ahead of your friends and cleared a path.
Leliana is the Divine in this World State. A Cunning choice has allocated you information from the Inquisition and Chantry spies: that Qunari Antaam are also after the Otherworlder.
You have been captured by Solas. You told him you want to find a better way. Solas views you as his ward. He has granted you an Ancient Elven Tome.
Dorian helped your friends learn where Solas has taken you – the White Spire, north of Antiva.
Fenris helped your friends.
A History advantage allowed your friends to block Solas from you so they could reach you.
Diplomacy: 5 (Maxed out.) / Strength: 2 / Cunning: 4
Magic: 2
History: 3
Secrets: 1

Part 9

Your friends run to you, tears sparkling in their eyes, and they wrap their arms around you. You feel Halani’s lips on your cheek, Silverio’s on your forehead, and Barden’s on your other cheek. You feel their hands on you, and it comforts you in more ways than you can describe.

‘You have no idea how much you mean to us,’ says Halani.

‘I knew you’d come for me.’

You lock eyes with each of them and find yourself feeling a whole slew of emotions for all of them. Your stomach flutters.

‘We might have each other, but without you, we were lost.’ Barden has his hand on his heart as he says this.

‘I guess somewhere along the way, we each fell in love with you,’ Silverio says, his eyes full of earnestness.

You don’t know if what you feel for them is love, but you lean forward, wanting to convey what words cannot. You find Halani’s lips first, her kiss is tender, when she pulls away you feel a tug in your heart that is quelled when Barden kisses you, a fervent kiss that leaves you wanting more, and when Silverio kisses you, you feel your legs weaken beneath you as he places his hand on the small of your back and nibbles your lower lip. His kiss is urgent and when he pulls away, no more words are needed, you know how they all feel about you.

And you find that Silverio deftly unbound your hands. He grins cheekily and winks.

Your joy is immense. ‘I just know that I need you,’ you declare to them. ‘All of you.’

Your friends then free you of your other bonds. Together, you quickly find your discarded weapons and ensure the tome Solas gave you is secure in your satchel.

You clock the army fighting nearby, the shouts in Qunlat amidst Orlesian commands, but your friends guide you away from all that and through a path that leads you out to where Fenris and Dorian are fighting.

Dorian unleashes a bolt of fire from his staff, calling out, ‘Well met, Otherworlder. Your escape route has been determined.’ He waves at you. ‘We will meet again.’

Fenris swings his broadsword, glowing, and locks eyes with you. He points his sword towards a path in the mountains. ‘Until next time, with less fighting.’

You nod to them both in thanks and follow your friends through the path.

After much running, you and your friends find a hidden alcove where there is a cave providing shelter in the mountain. You look down from the ledge to where the fighting continues and spot Solas among the fighters, searching frantically. You back away before he can spot you, assured that, for now, you are safe.

Your friends set up a small fire to warm the cave and search it. You secure it together. There is a smaller alcove providing privacy in one area, and a pool of water to replenish your flasks and wash up in another.

You sigh in relief and look at your friends.

Silverio averts his eyes. ‘When he took you, my heart stilled…and I failed to protect you.’

Barden meets your gaze, fire in his eyes. ‘I was overwhelmed with a suffocating feeling of desperation, the likes of which I’ve never felt in my life before.’

Halani wipes her eyes. ‘I felt trapped, caged, like I was losing a piece of myself, a piece of myself I didn’t know I needed until I found you.’

You are so overwhelmed with emotions for your companions and their affection towards you, a sob escapes your mouth, and you pull all three of them to you to hold them.

‘I want you all to know that whatever else I feel, whatever else you feel, I care deeply about you and cherish you.’

Silverio takes you by the hand as Halani loops her arm through yours, and Barden places his hand on your back. Together they lead you to the secluded alcove. You gaze into each other’s eyes for a while, the four of you unmistakably yearning for each other.

Silverio cups your cheek, Halani interlaces her hand with yours, and Barden wraps an arm around your waist, the three of them declaring their love to you once more, and their lips find yours, and each other’s.

For every kiss they steal, you return more fiercely. Before you know it, the four of you are breathlessly devouring each other. Silverio kisses Barden as Halani claims you, then it’s Halani’s turn to be wrapped in Silverio’s warmth, while Barden caresses your skin. You pull Silverio to you for a fervent kiss.

The four of you lean towards each other as you are wrapped in their embrace, melting into their arms, everything else fading away, and the four of you share a tender night.

***

You look into each other’s eyes, bodies pressed against each other. Halani nestles into you, Barden spoons you from behind, and Silverio wraps the three of you in his embrace from behind Halani as you lie together on your blankets.

Halani kisses your shoulder.

‘You are an elating woman, Halani,’ you tell her, delicately trailing your fingers along her arm.

‘I certainly agree,’ whispers Barden, who strokes your hair.

‘You were invigorating,’ you tease him, looking over your shoulder. Silverio and Halani hum-chuckle.

Silverio caresses your cheek with the backs of his fingers and brushes a strand of hair away from your face.

‘You’re a very gentle and attentive lover, Silverio.’

He grins cheekily, ‘I can be more intense if you like.’ His gaze is enticing. Then worry crosses his features. ‘Or gentle if you prefer, or somewhere in the middle—’

You silence him with a kiss, slow and tender. ‘It was perfect,’ you whisper. ‘Besides, I like being in the middle.’

He bites his lower lip, as he takes the summoning stone, and strokes it; you feel all sorts of wonderful sensations rippling through your body before Silverio wraps his arms around you once more.

Elated, the four of you nestle into each other.

After several hours of rest, you wake and dress. You all get ready to travel in the shroud of night.

A snap and crackling sound that blasts a blinding light into the cave jolts you. Solas stands before you, eyes white, face contorted in a snarl, leaving you feeling frightened.

‘I am sorry, Otherworlder, but I cannot let anyone else possess the knowledge you shared with me, nor the ability to gain what you might not have told me. I cannot let you…or anyone stop me. You said it yourself, your presence changes everything, thus I must ensure your presence can no longer change anything!’

Solas aims his staff at the Summoning Stone, and before anyone can react, a bolt of white-hot magic flashes from the staff, crackling like lightning, towards the Summoning Stone.

You faintly hear Solas muttering, ‘This is where we part ways.’

As the magic hits the stone, agony surges through your body.

Solas aims now at you.

Silverio lunges towards you and wraps his arms protectively around you. Barden leaps up, landing atop both of you, his axe positioned like a shield, and Halani uses the momentum to send arrows at Solas as she lithely runs over Silverio’s shoulders.

A blinding flash engulfs your vision, and a shockwave of hot and cold pain propels you all back – the four of you tumble together, rolling a few times before a familiar sound alarms you of where you are.

A loud horn with a bright light! A large truck swerves. ‘Watch it, assholes,’ someone shouts from the driver’s seat.

‘Shit!’ you curse. You scramble to your feet only to stumble back down onto your knees as your entire body aches.

‘Something’s happening to the stone,’ Halani cries. It sizzles with little crackles of lightning that alight the night.

‘Send us back, use the stone!’ you urge them.

Barden hesitates but gives it a go. Silverio tries as well, as they each attempt to cast the summoning spell into Thedas, to no avail.

They look around at the lights, the surroundings, hear the noises – you forgot how noisy this realm was.

‘Are we…where you’re from?’

‘Yes,’ you mutter, ‘we are in my world.’

They gape as the realisation of the repercussions set in – the malfunctioning stone and your companions here with you outside of Thedas. Fear grips you, but you can’t place why.

To be continued in The Otherworlder 4: The Otherworld.
Stats, gear, and choices will carry over to the next story.

Thank you for once again shaping the story I was writing.

Summary: Your friends safekeep the Summoning Stone, spell box and key.
Gear: Ring of Elemental Protection, Amulet of Lashing Pride, basic gear, dagger-sword, short bow with a quiver of infinite arrows.
You previously met Caius, the Venatori mage who summoned you, and learnt of your bound soul to the Summoning Stone. A Diplomacy and a Cunning advantage allowed you to learn Venatori secrets. Halani saved your life and killed Caius.
Empress Celene Valmont rules Orlais in this World State. A Strength choice has allocated you Orlais’s army – they have ridden ahead of your friends and cleared a path.
Leliana is the Divine in this World State. A Cunning choice has allocated you information from the Inquisition and Chantry spies: that Qunari Antaam are also after the Otherworlder.
You have been captured by Solas. You told him you want to find a better way. Solas views you as his ward. He has granted you an Ancient Elven Tome.
Dorian helped your friends learn where Solas has taken you – the White Spire, north of Antiva.
Fenris helped your friends.
A History advantage allowed your friends to block Solas from you so they could reach you.
You have entered a polyamorous relationship with all three of your companions.
Solas has sent you and your companions back to the Otherworld, your world.
Diplomacy: 5 (Maxed out.) / Strength: 2 / Cunning: 4
Magic: 2
History: 3
Secrets: 1

Thank you for shaping the story of The Otherworlder 3: Entrapment.
Stay tuned for the sequel (The Otherworlder 4: The Otherworld). Your equipment, gear, companions, and acquired Diplomacy / Strength / Cunning points will carry over. These stats are LOCKED. Your acquired Magic / History / Secrets points will carry over.

The Otherworlder Series:

“The Otherworlder 3: Entrapment” is written by Celinka Serre (2023).

Disclaimer: This story is derivative and consistent of Fan-Fiction since it borrows the franchise world of Dragon Age. Certain jargon and places, or concepts mentioned, along with the Dragon Age universe belong to BioWare and EA. This fan-fiction story falls under Fair Use.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

You might also enjoy the Protectors of the Force series Star Wars Old Republic Fan-Fiction, or other SWTOR fanfics, and Mass Effect Fan-Fiction.

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