The Otherworlder 5: The Blood Stone

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

Takes place immediately after the events of The Otherworlder 4: The Otherworld

You and your group are propelled into the Summoning Stone, a final barrier that was put in place by Caius. The only hope for help from the outside now lies with Jasper, your friendly former professor landlord,
and your own drive to find a way out of the trap in which you find yourself now.
The fate of the realms, your world and Thedas, your life, and the life of your friends,
all rest on your shoulders.

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

Part 1

You stagger back, feeling like someone punched you in the gut. ‘I’m where now?’

‘I’m sorry if this is overwhelming for you,’ Antonina voices. ‘You are within the stone.’

You scowl. ‘How is that even possible?’

‘Caius implemented several barriers,’ explains Adehlen. ‘We were not aware of them all. It seems this was his attempt to ensure you could never break free from the stone or control it yourself – truly control it.’

‘By choosing to repair the stone, you have declared ownership of it, overriding your connection to it,’ Kaaras adds.

‘Using modern day lingo, eh?’ you try to smile.

‘We have been observing you in your world. We choose our words so you can comprehend what is happening to you.’ Kaaras offers you her palm. You place your bandaged hand in hers. She gently observes your bandaged wound. ‘What you have done is unprecedented. We cannot predict all that will happen. We will help you and guide you as you navigate your way out of the stone.’

You’re still trying to process this. ‘But how am I in here? I’m not dead, am I?’

‘No,’ says Adehlen. ‘You and the others were sucked into the stone through Caius’s magic. It is like entering the Fade physically.’

‘So I shrank?’ You try not to laugh at your situation, but it seems so ridiculous.

‘You have entered a new plane of reality,’ Antonina voices. ‘We do not know the details. We only know that you are alive, as are the others.’

‘We also know that your wound is bound to the stone and you cannot heal it with magic. It will heal slowly over time, however.’

You nod in acknowledgement, then look around, hoping to see your lovers in the distance. Instead you clock the angry glares of many spirits.

‘Uh…are they…?’

‘The spirits you have condemned to an eternity in the stone,’ states Adehlen. ‘We understand your choice, but not all spirits do. They will not make your journey easy.’

You rub your forehead with your uninjured hand. ‘Great. Just what I need, being stuck in a magical stone, not knowing how to get out, and a bunch of spirits angry at me because I chose the safe route to repair the damned thing rather than destroy it.’ You sigh. ‘Can I not free them later? Destroy the stone once I’m out of here?’

‘If you survive,’ says Kaaras, ‘then you become the master of the stone, and Caius’s magic and power may transfer over to you. It will depend on the circumstances of your exit and your choices to come.’

‘I guess I can thank Venatori magic for that.’

‘And if you wish to survive,’ Kaaras continues, ‘you must be aware of the blood on your hand.’

You glance at your bandage that is red and full. Worry grips you. ‘If I keep bleeding, I’ll start feeling woozy. Will this kill me?’

‘Your hand will heal. Slowly. Your blood will be needed here. If you are to maintain power over the stone and escape its trappings, you must use your blood as a resource to navigate its passages.’

You think you understand. ‘Blood magic. Because the stone was created with blood magic, the only way for me to control it is by using blood magic myself.’

‘Sí.’ The way Antonina replies reminds you of Silverio, and your longing for all your lovers increases.

‘As your wound heals,’ Kaaras continues, ‘you can continue to use your blood to acquire items, unlock secrets, or help those for whom you care, in addition to permanent changes to yourself and others. But choose wisely, your remaining usable blood is finite, and if you run out before you have the chance for greater choices, you may have more limiting options, and the consequences may be…dire.’

You nod, understanding as Kaaras lets go of your hand. ‘So where do we begin?’

‘This way.’

You follow the spirits who lead you several steps towards a series of ravines. There are a few narrow passages, but they are long and winding and dangerous. Near one of them, floats a wisp, bobbing up and down.

The wisp becomes excited at your approach. ‘I can help you traverse this treacherous pass!’

You wonder if you can trust this wisp. The spirits guiding you, who now share your mind, turn to you.

‘A guidance wisp,’ voices Adehlen, a smile tugging on the side of his mouth. ‘The wisps of this place are here to help and do not fault you for your choice.’

You observe the ravines. ‘What are my options?’

‘If you allow momentary control of your physical body,’ explains Antonina, ‘we will be able to safely float you along the paths, and quickly.’

‘You could offer to play a game with the wisp and have it guess the safest and fastest route,’ offers Adehlen. ‘The wisp will tell you which way to go.’

‘Or you can use your blood with the wisp,’ says Kaaras, pointing at a ridge. ‘Its magic will allow you to enhance the magic in your amulet. Strike at that towering ridge and it will fall, creating a large and direct passage to the other side.’

‘But beware,’ warns Antonina. ‘Use your blood now and you may not be able to use it in a more crucial moment later.’

You nod, reflecting on your options. And decide:

***

NOTE: Blood Magic choices are limited. You can only select 5 out of the 8 available options throughout the story before your usable blood is depleted. Choose wisely.

Summary: You are within the Summoning Stone; Jasper is now in possession of it, the 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. Halani saved your life and killed Caius.
Empress Celene Valmont rules Orlais, and Leliana is the Divine in this World State.
You were captured by Solas. You told him you want to find a better way. Solas viewed you as his ward. He granted you an Ancient Elven Tome.
Dorian and Fenris helped your friends.
You entered a polyamorous relationship with all three of your companions.
Solas sent you and your companions back to the Otherworld, your world.
The Otherworlder lives with a romantic partner. This unlocked Jesse as a lover.
You visited the Fortune Teller. She revealed combining the Stone’s power with your magical items would allow you to harness the rift’s magic.
You visited the Hidden Ritual Site and gained Fire magic.
Jesse returned, and knows the truth, and your relationship was rekindled. You enlisted Jesse’s help directly.
A History advantage allowed Jesse to use a quartz to minimise the damage done to you.
A Magic advantage allowed Solas to calm the rift and for your Thedosian allies to better control its power in Thedas.
You chose to return to Thedas and to repair the stone. The rifts have closed.
Jasper followed you, and now holds the stone and has stepped into Thedas.
You now find yourself within the stone.
Diplomacy: 5 (Maxed out.) / Strength: 2 / Cunning: 4
Magic: 5 (Maxed out.) / History: 5 (Maxed out.) / Secrets: 2
Blood Magic Choices Remaining: 5/8.

Part 2

You approach the wisp and it bounces in the air, shimmering brighter in its excitement.

‘Hello, friend,’ you begin.

‘Hello, Otherworlder.’

‘I was wondering if you would like to play a game with me.’

‘Oh, I love games!’

‘Perhaps we could compete to find the best route across the ravine, and if you win, I shall follow your path and name it in honour of you.’

The wisp bounces excitedly. ‘Oh, yes-yes-yes,’ it enthuses.

You look out and begin to point to one ridge, then another platform, muttering to yourself. ‘From there, I can jump down there, and then…’

‘No, no, no, that’s not right. Look, higher ledge, to jump on the lower path, then to the platform there, then up the sloping ridge to that one there…’

‘You’ve found it!’

‘Please, let me guide you safely through it.’

The wisp uses its magic to ensure you do not fall, propelling your jumps and keeping you balanced when you land. It guides you across the ravine through the complex path it saw. This allows you to strain but little, and before you know it, you have arrived on the other side.

‘Good journey, my friend!’ you enthuse. ‘Wisp, let us call this, the Wispy Way.’

The wisp giggles in glee, shining brightly, and you feel its warmth. You can’t help but smile at the childlike spirit.

‘Fare thee well,’ it wishes as you part ways with it.

‘All right, where to now?’ you muse, renewed hope pushing you forward. Though you are uncertain in which direction to go, you follow your feet, walking at a steady pace.

‘Follow your heart, and we will find the others,’ Antonina voices.

You can’t help but chuckle. ‘Your facial expressions are so much like your brother’s, Antonina.’

She smiles. ‘My brother loves you very much. He has never felt this strongly before. I can tell.’

Your heart swells. ‘You were a duo, yes?’

‘Sí. We did all our jobs together. Rarely did we execute anything without the other. From thieving to taking out our marks.’ Antonina smiles fondly. ‘Silverio and I were unstoppable. We looked out for each other.’

Her eyes crease in chagrin, very much like Silverio’s do. ‘When he lost me to this fate of mine, it devastated him. He seemed…lost. Without purpose. I am glad he now has you and the others.’

‘Yeah, me too,’ you voice. ‘He’s not the only one with a new purpose.’ You think of Barden and it tugs at your heart.

Kaaras chuckles, tipping her horns forward. ‘Always going on about his purpose, eh? Always wanting to find that meaning in his life, to mean something to someone. And to be with who becomes meaningful to him.’

The tall Qunari looks at you, her grin wide. ‘Barden is an attentive lover. Devoted. I could always rely on him.’ She stops, bowing her head. ‘He blames himself for what happened, but he wasn’t to know. Please, Otherworlder, show him the love he deserves. Show him he needs not make amends, only a new life with you.’

‘I will. I promise,’ you assure. You resume your trek, turning to Adehlen. ‘Tell me about your friendship with Halani.’

Adehlen smiles fondly. He is so human, save for his ears, and yet the way he holds himself is as graceful as any elf’s

‘She always accepted me. I wanted to help the elves. My father was one.’ His nose crinkles in disdain. ‘My mother was Venatori, and perhaps she wanted some fun with an elf, but her disappointment in me for looking so much like him increased as I grew older.’

He shakes his head, and you can tell there is deep sorrow behind his eyes. ‘My ears are not fully human, yet not fully elven. Many elves did not accept me either. I was stuck between both worlds, and eventually, I realised that I had become my mother’s slave. And yet, I obliged, because this allowed me to help the other slaves.’

His gorgeous smile returns, and you can’t help but admire his handsome and sharp features. ‘Halani accepted me, and we grew close quickly. I loved her like a sister. You must take care of her. She cares to free the spirits of this stone, do consider your future choices and the power you will wield.’

‘I want to take into consideration what everyone thinks and feels.’

‘That is the best we can ask for,’ says Adhelen.

After more of your trek, you arrive at a cluster of angry spirits, and your heart sinks as you realise the person in the centre whom they are holding hostage.

‘Jesse!’ you exclaim.

Jesse looks up, struggling against the spirits who hold your partner in place.

Jesse cries out your name.

‘Hang on, Jesse. I’m coming for you.’

‘Hurry! I don’t know what they’re doing to me, but it stings.’

You wrack your brain to what you can do. You turn to your guides for counsel.

‘I can charge through these angry spirits,’ declares Kaaras. ‘As one myself, we have equal power, but I am a Qunari, and I’ve fought larger mobs than this single-handedly. I’ll free Jesse, and these spirits will scatter.’

‘Perhaps a gentler approach might be best,’ voices Adehlen.

‘I agree.’ Antonia points a thumb towards the spirit mob. ‘Allow me to step into their cluster and share the knowledge I possess that will appease their souls, for I know much about their loved ones, and I was the first to be bound to this stone. Let me speak to them as a Talon would their House. They will see reason.’

‘I was opting for a more compassionate option,’ says Adehlen. ‘With your blood, you may reach their hearts when you speak to them, so they know your intent was pure and the torment of your choice was never meant to harm them further. Speak to them as you would us, and they may feel through the essence to which your blood will allow them to connect how genuinely sorry you are.’ He meets your gaze. ‘They will forgive you.’

You turn to the mob of spirits holding your partner hostage.

***

NOTE: Blood Magic choices are limited. You can only select 5 out of the remaining 7 available options throughout the story before your usable blood is depleted. Choose wisely.

Summary: You are within the Summoning Stone; Jasper is now in possession of it, the 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. Halani saved your life and killed Caius.
Empress Celene Valmont rules Orlais, and Leliana is the Divine in this World State.
You were captured by Solas. You told him you want to find a better way. Solas viewed you as his ward. He granted you an Ancient Elven Tome.
Dorian and Fenris helped your friends.
You entered a polyamorous relationship with all three of your companions.
Solas sent you and your companions back to the Otherworld, your world.
The Otherworlder lives with a romantic partner. This unlocked Jesse as a lover.
You visited the Fortune Teller. She revealed combining the Stone’s power with your magical items would allow you to harness the rift’s magic.
You visited the Hidden Ritual Site and gained Fire magic.
Jesse returned, and knows the truth, and your relationship was rekindled. You enlisted Jesse’s help directly.
A History advantage allowed Jesse to use a quartz to minimise the damage done to you.
A Magic advantage allowed Solas to calm the rift and for your Thedosian allies to better control its power in Thedas.
You chose to return to Thedas and to repair the stone. The rifts have closed.
Jasper followed you, and now holds the stone and has stepped into Thedas.
You now find yourself within the stone.
You played a game with the wisp to get across the ravine.
Diplomacy: 5 (Maxed out.) / Strength: 2 / Cunning: 5 (Maxed out)
Magic: 5 (Maxed out.) / History: 5 (Maxed out.) / Secrets: 2
Blood Magic Choices Remaining: 5/7.

Part 3

Antonina gracefully sashays her way into the mass of spirits, her arms spread out. She calls out to them.

‘What disgrace has this human ever done to earn your ire? So, perhaps the Otherworlder has chosen to keep us trapped in here, but do you see me complaining? No. Instead I aid this human from the Otherworld.’

She turns in place. ‘Now why would I sympathise? Because I have had much time to reflect on my fate. Here or out there, I am dead. We are all dead. I was the first of Caius’s sacrifices. Yes, I value the wisdom I have gained to help my brother and his lovers.’

Antonina brings her hands together meditatively and closes her eyes. She begins to glow, and her long black hair begins to sway from side to side, yet there is no wind. The spirits look upon her in awe before they nod to her.

‘It is done. Now you understand.’

The spirits understand, but begrudgingly comply. They may still hinder you.

She need say no more. She holds out her hand towards Jesse, who takes it as the spirits step aside. Antonina guides your partner to you, and your eyes lock with Jesse’s.

Jesse runs to you and the two of you wrap your arms around each other.

‘Oh my god, baby,’ Jesse whispers.

Your lips connect for a hard but brief kiss that is filled with relief. When you pull away, Jesse is smiling.

‘Here.’ You pass your bow and quiver to Jesse. ‘In case we run into more trouble.’

‘Thanks, babe. My shots might be wild, but I’m a fast learner.’

Jesse slings the bow and quiver each over a shoulder, and then interlaces your hands before you resume your trek to find the others.

Having met them but briefly, Jesse and your spirit guides reintroduce themselves to each other.

‘I wonder what will happen to those we’ve left back home,’ Jesse muses as your group continues on.

‘I’m just glad you’re here with me despite everything.’

‘Of course. We’re in this together. It will take some getting used to, but I am committed to us, to this new form of us.’

It warms your heart. You bring your clasped hands to your mouth and brush a gentle kiss over Jesse’s knuckles, both of you smiling.

‘I admit,’ says Jesse, ‘I’m going to miss Jasper. He was a kind landlord, and handsome too. Retired professor that he was, with his sexy glasses.’

You chuckle. ‘The glasses weren’t what was sexy.’

‘Very true. It was the cardigan.’ You both laugh. ‘And he was fit. He was always so handsomely dressed, had those deep dark eyes, so dreamy, with just enough silver in his hair.’

You explain to your guides how Jasper was a retired linguistics professor in his fifties. And as you wonder about him, somewhere in Thedas…

***

Jasper steps through the rift just before it closes behind him.

‘And who are you?’ the elven man before him demands, his scowl accentuating the scar at his brow.

Jasper bows politely. ‘Jasper. I am a retired linguistics professor and landlord. My tenant’s partner went AWOL before returning. I’ve been keeping an eye on the group, curious as I was, and followed them here. I overheard enough. I have come to understand part of what’s been going on.’ He lifts up the stone. ‘This seems to be the key, and it seems my tenants and their friends are trapped within.’

‘Yes, it seems Caius, the mage who created the Summoning Stone, put up a barrier to trap the Otherworlder within it. Something else I had not foreseen in my attempt to cast the Otherworlder from this world.’ The elf sighs. ‘Perhaps it is for the better. That stone has been creating problems for me and my ritual.’

‘Oh?’ Jasper motions between them. ‘I don’t believe I am acquainted with you, Mister…?’

‘Solas.’

‘Well then, Solas. Shall we help each other and my tenants?’

Jasper waits for a reply. Solas finally chuckles. ‘It appears I have no choice but to help. However, right now, the only thing we can do is protect that stone and ensure it does not fall into the wrong hands. Anyone with enough magical power can easily take control of it and render the Otherworlder’s efforts useless. I, however, have different goals with the Otherworlder. This stone must complete its repair to the fullest. Then, I shall destroy it. Let us hope the Otherworlder and the others find their way out, for as soon as I have my chance, I will strike.’

Jasper blinks, uncertain if Solas’s response is a threat or a warning. Though the elf makes no attempt to take the stone from him, Jasper realises that he has nowhere to go, no resources here, and is at the mercy of this Solas character.

Bringing the stone closer to him, Jasper declares. ‘I won’t let you harm them.’

Solas’s laugh is amused and condescending. ‘And what can you do against me to stop me should I choose to act?’

Jasper begins to recite aloud: Imperio animārum, ipsum necto cuīdam qui me iniūriam dēsīderat!

As he chants the incantation, Jasper takes out a small pocket knife and pricks his finger before pressing his digit to the stone. His blood touches the stone, which absorbs it.

Solas gasps as magic swirls between Jasper and Solas. ‘What have you done?’

‘Oh, just a bit of Latin, which seems to be a language similar to the one used by these Venatori from your realm.’ Jasper smirks with pride. ‘I am now connected to the stone through my blood, as I understand it, minimally, but enough. Anything that happens to the stone affects me too. I also bound us together in such a way that whatever you do to me, you also do to yourself.’ Jasper grins. ‘Harm the stone, you harm yourself. Harm me, you harm yourself.’

Solas’s face contorts in anger and he lets out a frustrated growl that sounds more wolf-like than anything else.

‘Now then,’ Jasper begins anew, ‘I shall ask you again. How will we help my tenants and their friends and keep the stone safe?’

***

You come upon a vial, magic swirls around it and whispers to you. You listen to the echoes and understand your choices.

When you take the vial with you, you may contain the echoes swirling around it within. These may provide insight later on. You may also whisper into it and gain the magical protection it can provide, one that would allow you to spread your magical ring’s effects to your companions.

Or, you may choose to secure your blood within it more securely, keeping it fresh, keeping your wound cleaner, thus allowing you more sustained energy, which may prove invaluable in battle.

Hence, when you take the vial, you…

***

NOTE: Blood Magic choices are limited. You can only select 5 out of the 6 remaining available options throughout the story before your usable blood is depleted. Choose wisely.

Summary: You are within the Summoning Stone; Jasper is now in possession of it, the 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. Halani saved your life and killed Caius.
Empress Celene Valmont rules Orlais, and Leliana is the Divine in this World State.
You were captured by Solas. You told him you want to find a better way. Solas viewed you as his ward. He granted you an Ancient Elven Tome.
Dorian and Fenris helped your friends.
You entered a polyamorous relationship with all three of your companions.
Solas sent you and your companions back to the Otherworld, your world.
The Otherworlder lives with a romantic partner. This unlocked Jesse as a lover.
You visited the Fortune Teller. She revealed combining the Stone’s power with your magical items would allow you to harness the rift’s magic.
You visited the Hidden Ritual Site and gained Fire magic.
Jesse returned, and knows the truth, and your relationship was rekindled. You enlisted Jesse’s help directly.
A History advantage allowed Jesse to use a quartz to minimise the damage done to you.
A Magic advantage allowed Solas to calm the rift and for your Thedosian allies to better control its power in Thedas.
You chose to return to Thedas and to repair the stone. The rifts have closed.
Jasper followed you, and now holds the stone and has stepped into Thedas.
You now find yourself within the stone.
You played a game with the wisp to get across the ravine.
Antonina addressed the angry spirits who begrudgingly withdrew.
Diplomacy: 5 (Maxed out.) / Strength: 2 / Cunning: 5 (Maxed out)
Magic: 5 (Maxed out.) / History: 5 (Maxed out.) / Secrets: 3
Blood Magic Choices Remaining: 5/6.

Part 4

You reach for the vial and tilt it diagonally, swirling it around the area to scoop up the magical current that flows around it. It shimmers as you cork it before securing it into your satchel.

Patting your satchel, you lace your hand with Jesse’s anew, and before long you see one of your companions.

‘Halani!’ you call out. She appears to be searching just like you are.

You and Jesse pick up your pace. When you reach her, she turns away from you and hugs Jesse first.

‘I’m happy you’re safe, Jesse.’

‘And me?’ you inquire.

Halani pins you with a glower that has your heart sinking.

‘You had a choice,’ she roughs out, ‘to free everyone in the stone, everyone Caius ever enslaved within it! And you chose to keep them bound to it!’ She points at you. ‘To keep them bound to you!’ Her last word is an octave lower.

‘Halani,’ you say gently, cupping her face with your hands. She lets you, though she refuses to meet your gaze. ‘I’m sorry. I was scared of destroying the stone. If I can free them after this, I will. I didn’t do it to hurt you or to enslave them. Please, forgive me.’

Halani first looks at Jesse, who offers her an empathetic smile. Halani deflates and meets your gaze, finally her expression softening.

‘I know. I just wish it could have been simpler.’

‘Me too.’ You pull her in for a hug. ‘If I had the power to free and save everyone, I would.’

You tilt her head up and kiss her sweetly. She hums against you.

‘I’m still mad, but keep more of those coming and I might forgive you eventually.’

Halani nudges a chuckling Jesse.

Making their presence known, your guides draw Halani’s attention to them, and she bounces to Adehlen, who beams at her.

‘I am so happy I can see you once more before my end, Halani.’

Both their eyes brim with tears, and Halani lets out a sobbed laugh, reaching a hand out. It passes through Adehlen, but he shimmers all the same.

Wiping her eyes, Halani loops an arm through yours and Jesse’s, and the three of you continue, quickly finding Silverio, who from afar, clocks you and dashes towards you.

Wrapping his arms around you, Silverio scoops you up and spins you in his arms. ‘Mi amor!’

He kisses you deeply before reluctantly pulling away. It’s a good thing he is holding you, because you swear your legs were about to give way from the feeling of melting in his arms.

‘It is such a relief to find you. Thank you so much for repairing the stone.’ He peppers your face and neck with kisses, making you giggle.

Then, he turns his attention to his sister. They both beam at each other and he too is quickly overcome with emotion.

‘Do not weep, brother. We have another chance to say goodbye.’ Antonina reaches out to wipe Silverio’s tears away. Her thumb merely flickers against his skin, but the gesture heartens him.

Silverio embraces Halani and Jesse before you all make your way to the dot afar you know is Barden.

He is beaming and striding towards you as you near him.

‘My purpose! Found you again.’ He wraps you in a tight hug. ‘Thank you, for not choosing inaction.’ You tilt your head down and he kisses you languidly.

When he pulls away, a hand on your face, he turns his attention to Kaaras, reaching for her with his other hand.

‘Kadan,’ she voices, ‘I am happy you have found a purpose and love anew.’

‘So am I. Sodding hell, am I glad.’ He chuckles. ‘Thank you for protecting my purpose.’

Barden extricates himself from your arms so he can share a moment with the others, including Jesse, who has truly integrated as another lover in your group of five.

‘So where to now?’ you ask.

‘We must exit the stone, propel everyone’s will outside into the world beyond,’ says Adehlen.

‘Bind our souls to you,’ says Kaaras, ‘we will merge with you, and lend you our strength, which will help ensure your survival.’

‘But I will remain an abomination?’ Kaaras confirms with a ‘Correct.’

‘Bind our magic to you, and we can still help you through your journey and life, but we will not be intrinsically tied to you,’ Antonina explains.

‘But I’ll still be an abomination?’

‘Sí, but instead of us permanently being within you, you may choose to keep us out of your body at all times, we will merely continue to be bound to you.’

‘Either way, we will respect your privacy and…switch off when you need it,’ Kaaras reassures you.

You ponder this decision.

‘There is another option,’ voices Adehlen. You all turn your gazes to him. He points at your hand. ‘Use your blood, combine it with our magic, and you may free us from the bind that now connects us to you. Our magic will linger enough to guide you out of the stone, but we shall be freed, from you and from the stone, and you shall no longer be an abomination.’

You turn to your lovers, their eyes already misty. You know what each of them would prefer, though they all nod to you, showing you they will stand by your decision.

***

NOTE: Blood Magic choices are limited. However, you can now select 5 out of the 5 available options throughout the story before your usable blood is depleted. Though other choices matter as well. Choose wisely.

Summary: You are within the Summoning Stone; Jasper is now in possession of it, the 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. Halani saved your life and killed Caius.
Empress Celene Valmont rules Orlais, and Leliana is the Divine in this World State.
You were captured by Solas. You told him you want to find a better way. Solas viewed you as his ward. He granted you an Ancient Elven Tome.
Dorian and Fenris helped your friends.
You entered a polyamorous relationship with all three of your companions.
Solas sent you and your companions back to the Otherworld, your world.
The Otherworlder lives with a romantic partner. This unlocked Jesse as a lover.
You visited the Fortune Teller. She revealed combining the Stone’s power with your magical items would allow you to harness the rift’s magic.
You visited the Hidden Ritual Site and gained Fire magic.
Jesse returned, and knows the truth, and your relationship was rekindled. You enlisted Jesse’s help directly.
A History advantage allowed Jesse to use a quartz to minimise the damage done to you.
A Magic advantage allowed Solas to calm the rift and for your Thedosian allies to better control its power in Thedas.
You chose to return to Thedas and to repair the stone. The rifts have closed.
Jasper followed you, and now holds the stone and has stepped into Thedas.
You now find yourself within the stone.
You played a game with the wisp to get across the ravine.
Antonina addressed the angry spirits who begrudgingly withdrew.
You chose to contain the echoes within the vial. Your bandaged hand remains bloodied.
Diplomacy: 5 (Maxed out.) / Strength: 2 / Cunning: 5 (Maxed out)
Magic: 5 (Maxed out.) / History: 5 (Maxed out.) / Secrets: 4
Blood Magic Choices Remaining: 5/5.

Part 5

As your lovers await your decision, they each walk up to their spirit friends – Silverio to Antonina, Halani to Adehlen, and Barden to Kaaras – and even though they cannot tangibly hold their hands, the spirits linger their hands in theirs.

Jesse places a hand on your shoulder in show of support for whatever decision you make.

You announce your decision to free the three spirits once and for all. Your friends heave, yet the spirits merely smile back.

‘Always honour our House, but always honour your lovers more, brother,’ Antonina reminds Silverio.

‘Never lose that fiery spark that has always guided you and those you love to freedom, my friend,’ Adehlen tells Halani.

‘Remember what we once shared when you fear losing your purpose, for it guided you to renewed happiness, Kadan,’ Kaaras tells Barden.

Your Thedosian lovers are tearful in their replies.

‘I will forever cherish our friendship,’ Halani tells Adehlen.

‘I love you, sister, you will forever remain in my heart,’ Silverio tells Antonina.

‘I will never forget the passion and purpose we shared,’ Barden tells Kaaras.

You step forward, holding up your hand, and the spirits each place a hand to touch your blood, their magic crackling.

A sob escapes Silverio. He places a hand to his mouth.

‘Goodbye, Silverio,’ Antonina says gently.

‘Goodbye, Antonina,’ Silverio whispers tearfully.

‘Goodbye, Halani,’ says Adehlen.

Halani lets out a small sob, yet she is smiling. ‘Goodbye, Adehlen.’

‘Goodbye, Barden,’ says Kaaras.

Barden is unable to stop the onslaught of tears streaming down his face, nor does he fight it. He whispers his reply. ‘Goodbye, Kaaras.’

‘Thank you,’ you express, and your former guides nod to you. Their magic reaches and embraces you, all while their hands hold their friends still. You feel sadness and yet relief. Then the magic shifts.

The spirits begin to fade, your blood swirling around them and mixing with their magic. Their essence turns pink and they fade further. Then, as your blood dissipates, so do the spirits who protected and guided you, like dust scattering in the wind.

And then they are gone.

Weeping, you and Jesse approach your other lovers who wrap their arms around you.

‘I will forever miss my sister, but I am happy she could be freed,’ says Silverio.

‘Thank you for freeing them,’ Halani expresses.

‘It was what was meant to happen,’ Barden voices.

You all hold each other, as long as you need, before pulling away and each wiping your tears away.

‘Let’s find the way out,’ you say gently. You let your heart guide you where to go and everyone follows you.

You feel the vial in your satchel vibrate. You stop, reaching for it, and hold it up. You hear the magical echoes give a warning.

‘Ahead lies the way out, but it is guarded by a pride demon.’

You sigh. ‘Of course, it has to be a demon. A pride demon, no less.’

You and your lovers ready your weapons and creep up the way towards your exit and this demon.

When you are close enough, you unleash the first strike at that which stands between you and freedom, with an onslaught of caltrops, darts, and arrows.

Before you have time to do anything else, the demon lashes out with its lightning whip.

The crackling levin strikes you all, and white-hot pain sears through your bodies, stunning you in place. Some of you groan, others cry out, your body shakes in place, unable to move. The demon chuckles sinisterly, and you seethe at it.

Despite your state, you manage to flip the bird at it, before everyone breaks free from the stun, and you all hurry to a small outcrop of stones to huddle and strategise.

‘All right, what are our options?’ you prompt everyone.

The lingering essence of your former spirit guides imprints your mind with your options.

‘I see,’ you assess. ‘So if we form a cluster and charge at the demon, we can damage it fairly well, but then it can retaliate at us all at once. If I charge at it alone, the rest of you can ambush it from all sides, but it leaves me vulnerable and we remain scattered.’

You narrow your eyes, feeling resolved. ‘However, if I use my blood to create a fragment of the Summoning Stone with one of the pebbles at our feet, I can link us all through magic. This will allow us to feel each other’s thoughts more prominently. All healing done to any of us, heals all of us. But all damage done to any of us, hurts all of us.’

‘It’s your choice, baby,’ voices Jesse. ‘I trust your judgement.’

***

NOTE: Blood Magic choices are limited. However, you can now select 4 out of the 4 remaining options throughout the story before your usable blood is depleted. Though other choices matter as well. Choose wisely.

Summary: You are within the Summoning Stone; Jasper is now in possession of it, the 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. Halani saved your life and killed Caius.
Empress Celene Valmont rules Orlais, and Leliana is the Divine in this World State.
You were captured by Solas. You told him you want to find a better way. Solas viewed you as his ward. He granted you an Ancient Elven Tome.
Dorian and Fenris helped your friends.
You entered a polyamorous relationship with all three of your companions.
Solas sent you and your companions back to the Otherworld, your world.
The Otherworlder lives with a romantic partner. This unlocked Jesse as a lover.
You visited the Fortune Teller. She revealed combining the Stone’s power with your magical items would allow you to harness the rift’s magic.
You visited the Hidden Ritual Site and gained Fire magic.
Jesse returned, and knows the truth, and your relationship was rekindled. You enlisted Jesse’s help directly.
A History advantage allowed Jesse to use a quartz to minimise the damage done to you.
A Magic advantage allowed Solas to calm the rift and for your Thedosian allies to better control its power in Thedas.
You chose to return to Thedas and to repair the stone. The rifts have closed.
Jasper followed you, and now holds the stone and has stepped into Thedas.
You now find yourself within the stone.
You played a game with the wisp to get across the ravine.
Antonina addressed the angry spirits who begrudgingly withdrew.
You chose to contain the echoes within the vial. Your bandaged hand remains bloodied.
You have freed your spirit guides. Their magic will linger long enough to help.
Diplomacy: 5 (Maxed out.) / Strength: 2 / Cunning: 5 (Maxed out)
Magic: 5 (Maxed out.) / History: 5 (Maxed out.) / Secrets: 4
Blood Magic Choices Remaining: 4/4.

Part 6

You reach for a pebble on the ground and press it to your bloodied bandage, summoning the lingering magic from your former spirit guides, somehow able to connect to it through sheer will and thought.

Blood seeps into the rock before beaming outwards like lasers towards everyone. You all gasp. The light dissipates and you can sense, you can feel, your lovers as though they have become a part of you, yet distinctly external parts of you.

From where you stand, you begin your onslaught as the demon cracks its whip at you. Arrows, caltrops, darts, dagger-sword and axe strike true, some of you running forward and others staying farther away.

You are confident you can take it down together. The demon lashes out again, but this time with a pulse of electric energy that hits you and Barden square in the chest. Everyone cries out in pain.

Halani downs a healing potion and you all feel its soothing effects. The pain immediately subsides, and you are all rejuvenated anew, ready for the next phase of battle.

You notice the spirits of this stone, the ones who begrudge you, huddling close to the demon. And then, they connect to it. Its next lightning strike is enhanced by the angry spirits and sends everyone hurling through the air in crackling agony.

‘Fuck!’

You all smack against a cliffside before falling to the ground, breathing heavily as you regain your bearings.

Giving it your last all, you push through the fatigue to take down the demon. Silverio jumps onto its back and stabs down with his daggers, Barden hacks at its legs with his axe, and Halani sends arrows into its eyes. Jesse’s shots are wild, but each one hits the mark, damaging the demon further.

You approach it from behind while Barden distracts it, and slash with your dagger-sword, swiping from side to side as fast as you can to get as many hits in as you can.

You all keep going, but your energy reserves begin to dwindle.

Soon, you are left feeling completely depleted. You know you are on your last legs. You trudge on, fighting against the exhaustion more than against the demon now. You fall to your hands and knees, panting. Your companions soon follow suit.

The demon is weakened, as it too falls to its knees, bleeding out. It needs only one final strike, but one that counts.

You’re crawling now, desperate for this fight to end. You know what you must do.

NOTE: Blood Magic choices are limited. However, you can now select 3 out of the 3 remaining options throughout the story before your usable blood is depleted. Though other choices matter as well. Choose wisely.

Summary: You are within the Summoning Stone; Jasper is now in possession of it, the 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. Halani saved your life and killed Caius.
Empress Celene Valmont rules Orlais, and Leliana is the Divine in this World State.
You were captured by Solas. You told him you want to find a better way. Solas viewed you as his ward. He granted you an Ancient Elven Tome.
Dorian and Fenris helped your friends.
You entered a polyamorous relationship with all three of your companions.
Solas sent you and your companions back to the Otherworld, your world.
The Otherworlder lives with a romantic partner. This unlocked Jesse as a lover.
You visited the Fortune Teller. She revealed combining the Stone’s power with your magical items would allow you to harness the rift’s magic.
You visited the Hidden Ritual Site and gained Fire magic.
Jesse returned, and knows the truth, and your relationship was rekindled. You enlisted Jesse’s help directly.
A History advantage allowed Jesse to use a quartz to minimise the damage done to you.
A Magic advantage allowed Solas to calm the rift and for your Thedosian allies to better control its power in Thedas.
You chose to return to Thedas and to repair the stone. The rifts have closed.
Jasper followed you, and now holds the stone and has stepped into Thedas.
You now find yourself within the stone.
You played a game with the wisp to get across the ravine.
Antonina addressed the angry spirits who begrudgingly withdrew. Thus they helped the demon.
You chose to contain the echoes within the vial. Your bandaged hand remains bloodied.
You have freed your spirit guides. Their magic will linger long enough to help.
You created a fragment of the Summoning Stone and connected everyone through Blood magic.
Diplomacy: 5 (Maxed out.) / Strength: 2 / Cunning: 5 (Maxed out)
Magic: 5 (Maxed out.) / History: 5 (Maxed out.) / Secrets: 4
Blood Magic Choices Remaining: 3/3.

Part 7

As counter-intuitive as it seems to strike lightning with lightning, you ready your amulet, and wait until the demon strikes you once more.

The demon cracks its whip at you and you activate your amulet right when it touches you. Lightning hits lightning, interrupting it. Except that you never let go of the amulet’s gem, its levin now creating an orb of purple that keeps growing bigger, and while the demon is momentarily stunned, your lightning continues to engulf it. Thus, stunning it further.

And all it takes, are a few well-placed blows from your companions, and the demon goes down, collapsing to the ground with a loud thud, dust rising around it before it disintegrates with the settling dust. The demon now finally defeated.

You and your companions push yourselves to your feet and all run towards each other, shouting out in celebration, and into a group embrace.

‘We did it!’

Despite your enfeebled states, your victory renews you of energy, as do the potions you pass around as though they were bottles of ale.

Jumping, hugging, and clapping each other on the back, you realise you stand under a beam of light. You look up to a clear sky, and allow the remnants of the magic from your guides to lift you up.

You expect to rise gracefully. Instead, you pop out of the stone with a pop, and bounce away from it, landing on the grass and staggering back a few steps. Jesse, Halani, Silverio, and Barden appear next to you in much the same manner.

‘Everyone okay?’ you ask, assessing yourself to ensure you are very well alive, out of the stone, and in Thedas as had been the original plan.

The others return your question with assertive answers.

‘My god!’ a familiar voice you recognise exclaims. ‘Well that was impressive.’

You look several feet ahead and into the handsome features of your landlord, Jasper. He is grinning, and holds out the Summoning Stone.

‘I believe this is yours.’

‘Jasper?’ you and Jesse both exclaim.

‘How…? What the…?’

Jasper shrugs. ‘Oh you know: tenant disappears, then returns when magic does weird things in our world. I follow, I investigate, I witness a phenomenon, pick up the stone and deliberately find myself in Thedas.’

‘Wow.’

‘And he is not alone.’

You narrow your eyes at the other speaker, who, clad in elven armour, takes a few steps towards you to stand beside Jasper.

‘Solas.’

‘Hello, Otherworlder. We meet again.’

Sensing your displeasure, Jasper cautiously steps between the two of you and hands you the stone, box and key. You take the items and reflexively distribute them among your companions, except you keep the stone.

‘Otherworlder,’ Solas begins, ‘I apologise for my miscalculation. It is imperative, however, that we discuss the—’

‘Hold that thought,’ you interrupt, holding a finger up at him. ‘I have some unfinished business.’

You glance down at the stone, noticing how it feels different in your hands than before you were pulled into it, but you do not dwell on this right now.

The magic that lingers from your former spirit guides allows you to possess the knowledge that: You may inspire the spirits within the stone to give them a new purpose of vengeance against the Venatori, or you may link their voices to you to hear their last wishes so you may grant these wishes for them as your new mission once Solas has been dealt with.

You also know that if you use your blood, you may free all the spirits trapped within once and for all.

Thus, connecting to that magic within you, the stone clutched in your grasp, you…

NOTE: Blood Magic choices are limited. However, you can now select 2 out of the 2 remaining options before your usable blood is depleted. Though other choices matter as well. Choose wisely.

Summary: You are within the Summoning Stone; Jasper is now in possession of it, the 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. Halani saved your life and killed Caius.
Empress Celene Valmont rules Orlais, and Leliana is the Divine in this World State.
You were captured by Solas. You told him you want to find a better way. Solas viewed you as his ward. He granted you an Ancient Elven Tome.
Dorian and Fenris helped your friends.
You entered a polyamorous relationship with all three of your companions.
Solas sent you and your companions back to the Otherworld, your world.
The Otherworlder lives with a romantic partner. This unlocked Jesse as a lover.
You visited the Fortune Teller. She revealed combining the Stone’s power with your magical items would allow you to harness the rift’s magic.
You visited the Hidden Ritual Site and gained Fire magic.
Jesse returned, and knows the truth, and your relationship was rekindled. You enlisted Jesse’s help directly.
A History advantage allowed Jesse to use a quartz to minimise the damage done to you.
A Magic advantage allowed Solas to calm the rift and for your Thedosian allies to better control its power in Thedas.
You chose to return to Thedas and to repair the stone. The rifts have closed.
Jasper followed you, and now holds the stone and has stepped into Thedas.
You now find yourself within the stone.
You played a game with the wisp to get across the ravine.
Antonina addressed the angry spirits who begrudgingly withdrew. Thus they helped the demon.
You chose to contain the echoes within the vial. Your bandaged hand remains bloodied.
You have freed your spirit guides. Their magic will linger long enough to help.
You created a fragment of the Summoning Stone and connected everyone through Blood magic.
You struck lightning with lightning, and defeated the demon.
You are now out of the stone and stand in Thedas.
Diplomacy: 5 (Maxed out.) / Strength: 2 / Cunning: 5 (Maxed out)
Magic: 5 (Maxed out.) / History: 5 (Maxed out.) / Secrets: 5 (Maxed out)
Blood Magic Choices Remaining: 2/2.

Part 8

You know in your heart that it is time to do that which you, your companions, and the spirits wished to be done since before. You grant them this final wish, the one of utter and complete freedom.

You lift your hand and your blood is already swirling in spirals around the stone.

Be free. You have suffered enough, done enough. It is time for us to say goodbye.

You feel every spirit reaching out to you one final time as a show of gratitude. Your heart is filled with relief for them, and you feel them leave – leave the stone, leave Thedas, and move on into the beyond, into the afterlife, their souls completely free.

Then there is nothing of them left but the lingering peace their absence has left in your own soul. Your task is done, and you are pleased.

Your companions beam at you in gratitude.

That now done, you turn your attention back to Solas, the strangeness of the stone troubling you.

‘Tell me why I cannot feel sensations from the stone as I did before.’

‘Ah, that would be my fault,’ explains Jasper, his handsome brows creased. ‘I do apologise for the inconvenience.’

You scowl, not following what he means. ‘What did you do?’ Your tone is of curiosity, for you trust Jasper has your best interest at heart.

Jasper steps towards you. ‘Using the Latin I know well, which is nearly identical to Ancient Tevene as I discovered during my investigations, combined with the magic that was crackling all around me, I cast a spell upon the stone that linked me to it so as to protect you and your friends.’

‘Wow. Thanks.’ You purse your lips as Jasper smiles. ‘So if I do this?’ You gently stroke the stone, hoping you are caressing his back, but Jasper’s eyes widen. He blushes, it is endearing.

He clears his throat, coughing into his fist. ‘I would advise against that…at least in such a public setting.’

It is your turn to blush as you chuckle. ‘Sorry.’

Behind his glasses, Jasper’s gaze turns earnest. ‘I also linked myself to Solas so that whatever he does to the stone, he does to himself too.’

‘All to protect us?’

‘Yes.’

The amplitude of Jasper’s choice, the risk to his life, squeezes your heart. You find yourself smiling, and reach for his hand. ‘Thank you. You have no idea how much this means to me.’

‘And I promise it has nothing to do with trying to get your rent.’ Jasper winks; you and Jesse share a laugh with him.

In your moment of distraction, Solas takes advantage. A gust of magical wind yanks the stone from your grasp and it lands in Solas’s open palm. He holds it up, observing it, as filaments of green and cyan magic begin to coruscate around and from the stone.

‘Yes, unfortunately, I have unfinished business as well.’ The elf locks eyes with you. ‘The stone must be destroyed.’

With his other hand, he produces an intricate dagger, one with a magical ring as its pommel. Solas immediately begins to move his dagger about, slicing through the air that keeps growing thicker with magic, and you feel its effects as severance.

You and your group tense, all of you facing Solas, who seems more powerful than ever before.

‘Well, I had the option to destroy the stone before I chose to repair it,’ you begin, folding your arms and smirking slyly. ‘The spirits who protected me then, their magic continues to protect me now.’

‘Firstly, my dagger has the ability to cut through the Veil itself,’ Solas condescends curtly. ‘Do you think I would not have planned for a way to sever your connection with your spirit guides or their protective connection to you? The moment my blade strikes the stone, that protection will be severed…permanently.’

You scowl. ‘But if I were an abomination—’

‘That protection.’ Solas slices through another filament of magic, and its two halves break apart and fall to the ground, fading from existence. ‘Severed. Permanently.’

‘Ah, but you forget that I ensured through my spell that what happens to the stone happens to you as well,’ Jasper reminds him.

Solas lets out a condescending chuckle that makes your blood run cold. ‘You humour me, Jasper, but my dagger has already severed whatever weak link your spell had allowed.’

Jasper clenches his jaw. ‘You’re bluffing. Prove it.’

Solas strikes the stone in its side with the hilt of his dagger, and Jasper feels the brunt has a punch in the ribs, you just know it. He bends sideways, clutching his side and groaning, while Solas watches, unflinching.

That is when the extent of Jasper’s actions, and their meaning, fully dawn on you. The amplitude of his actions – and sacrifice, you now realise – suddenly weighs more heavily than it did moments ago.

Your lovers turn to you, looking at a complete loss of what to do. As for Jasper, he seems resigned to his fate, which clenches your heart. As you wrack your brain to find a solution, you know you must keep Solas talking for now.

‘Then it’s a good thing I freed the spirits within the stone,’ you declare.

‘Indeed. Your compassion allowed them to move on in peace, for they would have otherwise been fragmented, either linked to you in peace so long as you fulfilled your promise to them, or they would have become corrupt, doomed to linger as neither spirit nor demon, bent on a life of vengeance, to haunt anyone they deemed worthy of that vengeance.’

‘At least that,’ you reckon. You point at Solas. ‘But their corruption would have been on your hands.’
‘On the contrary,’ he answers matter-of-factly, ‘you’re the one who chose their fate. Any ill fate befalling them would have been on your hands.’

‘And what about me, then,’ you demand. ‘Is your goal to kill me too? Now thwarted by Jasper’s spell?’

‘I will deal with you in due course, Otherworlder. For now, the Summoning Stone must be destroyed once and for all.’

Solas’s magic picks up speed, wind blowing you back a few steps. You exchange frantic glances with everyone, still uncertain of your best options.

That is when Solas lifts his dagger above the stone, and plunges it deep into it. The dagger goes through smoothly, and an explosion of magic and stone fragments explode outward.

Jasper cries out roughly, falling to his hands and knees.

‘No!’

You cry out, a hand outreached towards Solas, and you feel the full force of the magic from your (former) spirit guides allowing you this one unique ability in this one critical moment.

Time around you freezes. You see Solas’s hardened expression, face scrunched in concentration, his dagger still plunged into the core of the stone that still remains, yellow lightning of magic tendrils spreading outwards, the fragments of the stone floating, locked in the air, and Jasper’s gasp interrupted mid-inhale, hand clutching his abdomen, his blood midway towards the ground.

Your mind is flooded with your final options.

If you absorb all the magic Caius ever poured into the stone, you will become a mage. This change will be permanent.

If you absorb all of the stone’s fragmented shards into you, you will become stone-touched and part golem. This change will be permanent.

If you use your blood, you will save Jasper’s life.

In this frozen instant, you know what you must choose.

NOTE: Blood Magic choices are limited. However, you can now select 1 out of the 1 remaining options before your usable blood is depleted. Though other choices matter as well. Choose wisely.

Summary: You are within the Summoning Stone; Jasper is now in possession of it, the 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. Halani saved your life and killed Caius.
Empress Celene Valmont rules Orlais, and Leliana is the Divine in this World State.
You were captured by Solas. You told him you want to find a better way. Solas viewed you as his ward. He granted you an Ancient Elven Tome.
Dorian and Fenris helped your friends.
You entered a polyamorous relationship with all three of your companions.
Solas sent you and your companions back to the Otherworld, your world.
The Otherworlder lives with a romantic partner. This unlocked Jesse as a lover.
You visited the Fortune Teller. She revealed combining the Stone’s power with your magical items would allow you to harness the rift’s magic.
You visited the Hidden Ritual Site and gained Fire magic.
Jesse returned, and knows the truth, and your relationship was rekindled. You enlisted Jesse’s help directly.
A History advantage allowed Jesse to use a quartz to minimise the damage done to you.
A Magic advantage allowed Solas to calm the rift and for your Thedosian allies to better control its power in Thedas.
You chose to return to Thedas and to repair the stone. The rifts have closed.
Jasper followed you, and now holds the stone and has stepped into Thedas.
You now find yourself within the stone.
You played a game with the wisp to get across the ravine.
Antonina addressed the angry spirits who begrudgingly withdrew. Thus they helped the demon.
You chose to contain the echoes within the vial. Your bandaged hand remains bloodied.
You have freed your spirit guides. Their magic will linger long enough to help.
You created a fragment of the Summoning Stone and connected everyone through Blood magic.
You struck lightning with lightning, and defeated the demon.
You are now out of the stone and stand in Thedas.
You chose to free the spirits. Solas cannot affect them, they are free.
Diplomacy: 5 (Maxed out.) / Strength: 2 / Cunning: 5 (Maxed out)
Magic: 5 (Maxed out.) / History: 5 (Maxed out.) / Secrets: 5 (Maxed out)
Blood Magic Choices Remaining: 1/1.

Part 9

You reach your hand out towards the stone, and time resumes. You lift your hand. The escaping magic from the stone latches onto your blood, your last attempt at blood magic, your final time to perform such a feat. In your mind and heart, you let go of the magical and the stone-touched abilities you could have gained, all to save a life.

Jasper collapses onto his stomach, blood pooling beneath him. You and Jesse run to his side and turn him over.

The last of the magic streams into your blood as filaments. You yank your hand back to cut the connection. You place your hand over Jasper’s wound. The rest of the blood swirls around him and coils itself around the pierce in his abdomen.

Jasper gasps as your blood penetrates him. His blood stops escaping and begins to recede back into his body, and his flesh begins to mend, and then the skin closes up. All that remains now of the wound is a scar.

Jasper gapes at you. ‘You saved my life!’

You nod, your eyes welling with tears. You and Jesse sob out in relief as Jasper props himself up.

‘You could have chosen to become a mage or stone-touched,’ Jasper astonishes, ‘and yet you chose to save me.’

‘You saved me. Only fair to return the favour.’

‘My gosh, I am so grateful! I have no words to express the amplitude of my gratitude.’

Jasper reaches out to you and hugs you. Then he hugs Jesse.

‘Strange, isn’t it? Tenants become friends, all thanks to such heroic acts.’ Jasper smiles at you, the fine lines on the sides of his eyes accentuated.

‘How did you know of my choices?’ you ask, curious.

Now Jasper creases his brows. ‘I did connect myself to the stone. What you knew from it, I knew.’ Tears well in his eyes, and he places a hand on your face, tapping gently. ‘Thank you for giving me a second chance at life.’

You let out another sob, relieved that this worked, feeling content, feeling that it was well worth it, the sacrifice of magic. You wouldn’t have been able to do it any other way. But despite this joy, much sorrow remains.

Wiping your eyes, you stand to glare at Solas, as your rage towards him surfaces, rage for all he has caused.

‘This isn’t over, Solas.’ Your voice is rough. ‘I tried. I really did. And then you went and did this.’ You shake your head. ‘You know what, you’re not worth it.’

You start to turn when Solas speaks.

‘Unfortunately for you, you cannot be allowed to remain. I will not let you disrupt my ritual.’

‘And what if we came to an agreement,’ you offer.

‘You once sympathised with my mission, but your mere existence poses too great a threat to me. I must prioritise my purpose, just like you shall come to understand that you must prioritise yours. Thus, we stand in each other’s way.’

Solas’s magic picks up around you, in great gusts of howling wind that darkens the sky. It is so powerful, you must lean forward and anchor yourself, lest you lose your footing.

‘Solas, please! It doesn’t have to be this way.’

‘I’m sorry.’

Solas cuts through the air with his dagger, moving it about, conducting the music of his new spell. Speckles of snowflake-sized magic rain down all around you.

‘Let us end this dance, Otherworlder. Your time in Thedas must come to an end.’
You feel magic swirl around you, independent of any magic being cast, of any magic that may or may not still linger within you, of any you may have acquired along the way or from your former spirit guides. This magic comes from the air around you, and you know it is an echo borne from the choices you’ve made since the first night you arrived in Thedas.

Your Diplomacy inspires, purple spirits appear at your sides, standing with all of you against Solas, and move into a protective formation in front of your group.

Your Cunning culls, and a wail rips through the air as despair demons float down on top of Solas, sending ice shards to accompany their ear-splitting screeching.

Your Magic permeates, and a wall of flames spreads towards Solas to push him back further, disrupting his own magic and countering any spell he attempts to cast.

Your History grounds, and the nearby trees uplift their long roots, reaching upwards to create a dome above you, blocking any magic from raining down on you.

Your secrets rebuff, and droplets of mist whoosh against the magical storm, not as a counter-storm but as a gentle caress wrapping around you to heal you and protect you.

Emboldened by all that which keeps you safe and alive, you stand at your tallest. Your head held high, you smirk in triumph at Solas. Your silence dares him to admit defeat.

‘It appears magic is against me. It is no matter. I will deal with you another time, Otherwrolder.’ He frowns at you through the storm of magic. ‘Until we meet again. Pray, for your sake, that I succeed, for then you will no longer matter.’

‘I will always matter!’ you shout in defiance, leaning forward on one leg.

Solas spins on his heels, hands clasped at his back, and walks away.

‘Yeah, that’s right: Fuck off!’ you call out to his back. ‘I hope whatever you’re planning backfires.’

Solas stops for a few heartbeats. He looks over his shoulder at you and locks eyes with you. Your breath is rapid, your anger having flared, but you say nothing more. Solas resumes and leaves.

Only once he is far away enough for you to be deemed safe does the magic around you subside and vanish.

***

After your encounter with Solas, you and your companions head out to return to ‘normalcy,’ however that may look like now.

Your friends and allies throw you a party in celebration of your victory. Dorian and Fenris are present, as are Leliana, clad in her Divine robes, and Empress Celene, in her shimmering blue dress. You are content that you and your lovers and friend are safe. You also commemorate your former spirit guides.

Finally, you raise a toast in honour of everyone in your group who is present: Jesse, Halani, Silverio, Barden, and Jasper.

You are now all strolling through the night towards an inn. Halani runs up to you and jumps up, hands on your shoulders, before hugging you from behind. You laugh, your steps feeling light.

‘What comes next?’ she asks.

‘I have a few ideas,’ Silverio purrs, extending a hand towards Jesse, as both are ogling Jasper.

‘I admit, I am unfamiliar with this world. I am certain my Latin will come in handy, though.’ Jasper is blushing, then he chuckles. ‘I am far older than the lot of you.’

‘It means you have experience,’ you point out.

Jasper clears his throat before letting out a laugh. ‘I am flattered, truly. However, I’ll let you enjoy your lovers, my friend. I think I might wait to meet my one soulmate in Thedas, if she exists. But I won’t be far, and I will always be ready to assist and accompany you.’

You pull your attention to Barden, who is grinning widely. ‘As long as I’ve got my purpose by my side, I’m down for anything.’

‘As strange as this all was at first, I just want to be with all of you,’ voices Jesse, ‘close and comforted. I agree with Barden, it doesn’t matter what we do next.’

‘I have nothing on the agenda. Let’s just play it by ear.’

***

You’re relaxing with your lovers in your lavish new home in Salle, Antiva.

You’re lounging on a recliner, an arm around Jesse, who rests by your side, head on your shoulder. Halani sits on the dresser, waggling her legs, as Barden sharpens his axe. Jasper is with you too. He sits at the desk, translating Ancient Tevene texts, whispering inaudibly as he does so.

Silverio paces, as he reads a letter sent to him from his Talon, from House Balazar.

‘Mierda!’ he stops, eyes wide in astonishment.

‘What happened?’ you prompt, you and Jesse both sitting up. ‘What does the letter say?’

Jasper, Barden and Halani stop and stare at Silverio, immobile as you are.

Silverio holds the letter out to the side. ‘Solas’s ritual has gone from bad to worse!’

‘How worse?’ you ask.

Silverio’s voice trembles as he speaks, though slightly more in bewilderment than fear. ‘They claim the ancient elven gods have risen!’

‘Well, shit.’

This concludes The Otherworlder as it stands currently.

Summary: You are within the Summoning Stone; Jasper is now in possession of it, the 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. Halani saved your life and killed Caius.
Empress Celene Valmont rules Orlais, and Leliana is the Divine in this World State.
You were captured by Solas. You told him you want to find a better way. Solas viewed you as his ward. He granted you an Ancient Elven Tome.
Dorian and Fenris helped your friends.
You entered a polyamorous relationship with all three of your companions.
Solas sent you and your companions back to the Otherworld, your world.
The Otherworlder lives with a romantic partner. This unlocked Jesse as a lover.
You visited the Fortune Teller. She revealed combining the Stone’s power with your magical items would allow you to harness the rift’s magic.
You visited the Hidden Ritual Site and gained Fire magic.
Jesse returned, and knows the truth, and your relationship was rekindled. You enlisted Jesse’s help directly.
A History advantage allowed Jesse to use a quartz to minimise the damage done to you.
A Magic advantage allowed Solas to calm the rift and for your Thedosian allies to better control its power in Thedas.
You chose to return to Thedas and to repair the stone. The rifts have closed.
Jasper followed you, and now holds the stone and has stepped into Thedas.
You now find yourself within the stone.
You played a game with the wisp to get across the ravine.
Antonina addressed the angry spirits who begrudgingly withdrew. Thus they helped the demon.
You chose to contain the echoes within the vial. Your bandaged hand remains bloodied.
You have freed your spirit guides. Their magic will linger long enough to help.
You created a fragment of the Summoning Stone and connected everyone through Blood magic.
You struck lightning with lightning, and defeated the demon.
You are now out of the stone and stand in Thedas.
You chose to free the spirits. Solas cannot affect them, they are free.
You chose to save Jasper’s life. He has joined your team as a friend and ally.
Your previously Maxed out stats gave you bonus protections against Solas, thus he could not kill you.
Diplomacy: 5 (Maxed out.) / Strength: 2 / Cunning: 5 (Maxed out)
Magic: 5 (Maxed out.) / History: 5 (Maxed out.) / Secrets: 5 (Maxed out)
Blood Magic Choices Remaining: 0/0.

Thank you for shaping the story I write with your votes.

Thank you for reading, and to those of you who voted for the choices in, The Otherworlder.
This concludes the series as it stands.
If you enjoyed my writing and wish to read more from me, I have more fanfiction, as well as original fiction and books, on my website (https://binkyproductions.com/binkyinkwriting)

The Otherworlder Series:

“The Otherworlder 4: The Otherworld” is written by Celinka Serre/Eidahs (2025).

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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