These codex pages deal with characters the Warden can meet or find out about during their campaign. These entries tend to be obtained when The Warden first meets the character, or when the character is first mentioned in dialogue with another character. Some characters can be met during The Warden's origin story, giving access to the codex entry earlier than would be the case for a Warden with a different background.
Many of these entries are updated throughout the game, as more information is found about the character or as the story develops. Sometimes, entries will depend on choices The Warden makes. Codex entries for companions will be updated with hints about what sorts of gifts they particularly like once their approval becomes high enough.
Dragon Age: Origins
Alistair
- Main article: Codex entry: Alistair
- See also: Character: Alistair
"You know, one good thing about the Blight is how it brings people together."
Alistair was a novice templar when Duncan recruited him into the Grey Wardens—or rescued him, as Alistair would say.
Alistair is fascinated by magic, even as his life is defined by fighting its darker manifestations. He has a fondness for strange runestones and figural studies of arcane creatures.
With a great deal of assistance, Alistair was recognized by the Landsmeet as Maric's son and granted his father's throne.
Unable to accept the decision to spare Loghain's life, Alistair left—and has not been seen since.
To prevent further civil war, he was executed at the Landsmeet on the orders of Queen Anora, ending the Theirin line.
In the battle against the archdemon in Denerim, Alistair gave his life to save his friends and end the Blight.
Alistair was the long-secret son of the late King Maric Theirin, and the half-brother of King Cailan, who perished on the field at Ostagar. Shortly after Cailan's death, Arl Eamon Guerrin revealed Alistair's parentage at a Landsmeet. To placate the nobles and rescue Ferelden from the brink of civil war, Alistair became engaged to marry his brother's widow, Queen Anora. However, Alistair was also the last of Ferelden's Grey Wardens, and so before he could take the throne as king of Ferelden, he and his allies set out to defeat the archdemon.
Anora
- Main article: Codex entry: Anora
- See also: Character: Anora
"We have been given the gift of freedom by our forbearers. Let us not squander it."
The only child of the war hero Loghain Mac Tir, Anora has never been one to stay quietly in the background. It is common knowledge that in the five years Anora and Cailan held the throne together, she was the one wielding the power. She is held in much higher esteem than her husband by the people of Ferelden, nobility and commoners alike, and commands the respect even of foreign nations, having once inspired Empress Celene of Orlais to declare, "Anora of Ferelden is a solitary rose among brambles."
When the Warden tried to protest the charge on the grounds of defending Anora, the queen declared that she was being kidnapped and called to Cauthrien for help.
The Warden surrendered to permit Anora's escape.
A fight ensued, and Anora fled in the confusion.
However, when the hour came, she publicly supported her father, decrying the Wardens as slanderers and regicides.
With her help, Loghain's support was eroded.
Her efforts, however, were not enough to erode Loghain's support.
The banns fell in line behind Eamon and The Warden. Loghain, however, would not accept defeat easily. He filled the room with troops and attempted a coup. Fighting erupted, breaking the long tradition of the Landsmeet, which was ultimately settled with a duel.
The banns fell in line behind Loghain, and he called for the Wardens' execution. Fighting erupted, breaking the long tradition of the Landsmeet, which was ultimately settled with a duel.
In the end, Anora was deposed, and Alistair was given the throne.
In the end, Anora was granted the throne, freeing Alistair from the burden of a responsibility he never wanted anyway.
In the end, Anora was granted the throne and Alistair was taken away to be executed.
In the end, Anora was granted the throne, and Alistair walked out of the Landsmeet Chamber never to be seen again.
In the end, Anora kept her throne, with the Warden now her king-consort, and Alistair was taken away to be executed.
In the end, Anora kept her throne, with the Warden now her king-consort, and Alistair walked out of the Landsmeet Chamber never to be seen again.
In the end, Anora kept her throne, with the Warden now her king-consort.
In the end, Anora and Alistair agreed to marry and rule jointly, though Alistair postponed taking the throne until the Blight was ended.
In the end, Anora and Alistair agreed to marry and rule jointly, with Alistair giving up his place among the Grey Wardens to take the throne.
Bhelen Aeducan
- Main article: Codex entry: Bhelen Aeducan
- See also: Character: Bhelen Aeducan
"This is a time for action, not cultured debate."
Third of King Endrin's children, Bhelen has always been considered the last and least of his family. Not the heir, nor the favorite, and not as accomplished as either sibling, Bhelen's most notable trait was his ability to stay out of trouble.
"Time is something you may not have much left of."
Third of King Endrin's children, Bhelen has always been considered the last and least of his family. Trian was the undisputed heir apparent from the moment of his birth, and <FirstName/> was not only the most accomplished, but also their father's clear favorite. Bhelen's most notable trait was his ability to stay out of trouble.
He tricked <FirstName/> into slaying their brother Trian, eliminating both his rivals for the throne in one stroke.
He murdered Trian and framed <FirstName/>, eliminating both his rivals in one stroke.
His efforts paid off: He was named king of Orzammar by the Assembly.
His efforts were for nothing, though. The Assembly named Pyral Harrowmont king of Orzammar, and the coup he tried to stage in revenge was cut down almost before it began.
King Cailan Theirin
- Main article: Codex entry: King Cailan Theirin
- See also: Character: Cailan Theirin
"I'd hoped for a war like in the tales! A king riding with the fabled Grey Wardens against a tainted god!"
Son of the legendary King Maric Theirin, Cailan was the first Fereldan king born into a land free from foreign rule in two generations. Since his father's death, he's held the throne alongside his queen, Anora.
Ser Cauthrien
- Main article: Codex entry: Ser Cauthrien
- See also: Character: Cauthrien
"Some of us know what honor and loyalty are."
Cauthrien came to Loghain's service the hard way—she belonged to a poor family and was out doing work on the farm when she saw a man on horseback being attacked by several bandits. She rushed to his assistance, and found out belatedly that the man she "saved" was none other than the great hero Loghain. Though she was hardly more than a child, he took her in, offering her a position with his soldiers, and she climbed through the ranks through sheer determination. Becoming the commander of Maric's Shield, Loghain's elite soldiers, was the proudest moment of her life.
She was slain while trying to arrest the Warden for the murder of Arl Howe.
She was slain while trying to stop the Warden from entering the Landsmeet.
Connor Guerrin
- Main article: Codex entry: Connor Guerrin
- See also: Character: Connor Guerrin
"I feel like I'm sleeping, but I guess I'm not."
While most of the banns and arls of Ferelden cart their children with them to the Landsmeet in the interest of eventually marrying them off, Connor has spent his entire life at Redcliffe.
And it's hardly surprising: the child possessed the gift of magic. By law, he should have been taken to the Circle of Magi at the first sign, abdicating his claim to Redcliffe. Instead, the boy was kept out of public view and his magic hushed up... with disastrous results.
All mages are beacons that attract the attention of Fade spirits. Because of this, they are trained and tested by the Circle to ensure that they can withstand attacks from malevolent Fade creatures that seek entry into the waking world. Untrained Connor drew the attention of a powerful demon that tore the Veil asunder.
To stop the demon's rampage, Connor was slain.
He was freed from the demon's power at a terrible price: the cost of his mother's life. Connor himself will be sent to the Circle where he will no longer endanger innocent people.[Bugs]
With aid from the Circle, he was freed from the demon's power. Connor will be sent to the Circle Tower where he will no longer pose a danger to the innocent.
Dog
- Main article: Codex entry: Dog
- See also: Dog, Mabari, Fauna and flora
"The mabari is clever enough to speak, and wise enough to know not to."
—Fereldan proverb
The Warden's warhound has a pedigree older than Highever, and a penchant for driving cooks to distraction.
The Warden found this mabari in the camp at Ostagar. His master was killed in the Wilds, and Dog fell ill from biting the darkspawn in battle. Dog seems to have chosen the Warden as his new master now, seeking the Warden out after the battle at Ostagar and warning of an impending darkspawn attack.
Barkspawn was a mabari hound who was found injured at Ostagar. Alistair saved the dog's life, and the two have been inseparable ever since. Why Alistair named the dog Barkspawn is anyone's guess.
Duncan
- Main article: Codex entry: Duncan
- See also: Character: Duncan
"Men and women from every race, warriors and mages, barbarians and kings... the Grey Wardens sacrificed everything to stem the tide of darkness... and prevailed."
Like many others, Duncan gave up his family name when he joined the ranks of the Wardens: a symbolic gesture of cutting ties. He might say this was a convenience in his case, however. His mother was from the Anderfels, his father from Tevinter, his childhood was spent in the Free Marches and Orlais. His people were everywhere and his homeland was nowhere.
He was given the almost impossible task of leading the Wardens in Ferelden—a kingdom that had thrown the order out two hundred years earlier. Facing local suspicion and hostility, he set about finding recruits.
Arl Eamon Guerrin
- Main article: Codex entry: Arl Eamon Guerrin
- See also: Character: Eamon Guerrin
"Nobility does not exist without obligation. We owe all we have, even our lives, to our land and our people."
As the maternal uncle of King Cailan, Arl Eamon is one of the king's most trusted advisors. Redcliffe, while not a large or especially wealthy part of Ferelden, is a critical strategic location: The fortress guards the western pass that leads to Orlais, as well as the major trade route with Orzammar. A well-respected man, though not the most charismatic, King Cailan once said of him, "My Uncle Eamon is a man everyone thinks well of—when they remember to think of him at all."
King Endrin Aeducan
- Main article: Codex entry: King Endrin Aeducan
- See also: Character: Endrin Aeducan
"Denial of the traditions of our people does not qualify as a political technicality."
Endrin of House Aeducan traces his ancestry back to the Paragon Aeducan, the greatest warrior of Orzammar's history, who beat back the darkspawn hordes in the First Blight. The second son of King Ansgar Aeducan, he became heir after his elder brother died in a Proving.
The most respected king in four generations, he restored contact with Kal-Sharok, the only other remaining city of the once-vast Dwarven Empire, which had been lost during the first Blight.
Flemeth
- Main article: Codex entry: Flemeth
- See also: Character: Flemeth
"You are required to do nothing, least of all believe."
Ages ago, legend says Bann Conobar took to wife a beautiful young woman who harbored a secret talent for magic: Flemeth of Highever. And for a time they lived happily, until the arrival of a young poet, Osen, who captured the lady's heart with his verse.
They turned to the Chasind tribes for help and hid from Conobar's wrath in the Wilds, until word came to them that Conobar lay dying: His last wish was to see Flemeth's face one final time.
The lovers returned, but it was a trap. Conobar killed Osen, and imprisoned Flemeth in the highest tower of the castle. In grief and rage, Flemeth worked a spell to summon a spirit into this world to wreak vengeance upon her husband. Vengeance, she received, but not as she planned. The spirit took possession of her, turning Flemeth into an abomination. A twisted, maddened creature, she slaughtered Conobar and all his men, and fled back into the Wilds.
For a hundred years, Flemeth plotted, stealing men from the Chasind to sire monstrous daughters: Horrific things that could kill a man with fear. These Korcari witches led an army of Chasind from the Wilds to strike at the Alamarri tribes. They were defeated by the hero Cormac, and all the witches burned, so they say, but even now the Wilders whisper that Flemeth lives on in the marsh, and she and her daughters steal those men who come too near.
Morrigan's mother saved the last Grey Wardens from death at the top of the Tower of Ishal, but just who, or what, Flemeth truly is, is a mystery.
She was slain at Morrigan's behest. At least apparently...
Brother Ferdinand Genitivi
- Main article: Codex entry: Brother Ferdinand Genitivi
- See also: Character: Ferdinand Genitivi
'"As it is the duty of all true sons of the Chantry to make the Chant heard from every corner of the world, I made it my mission to find as many corners of the world as possible. The Maker can hardly expect us to do one without the other."
—Excerpt from In Pursuit of Knowledge: The Travels of a Chantry Scholar by Brother Genitivi
Brother Genitivi is one of the Chantry's most well-known scholars, primarily on the basis of the stories he has published (which many of his contemporaries dismiss as fanciful) of his travels across the length and breadth of Thedas.
He never returned from his venture into the mountains, and no one knows if he found the Ashes or not.
And he appears to have been right. The final resting place of Andraste lay at the summit of a remote mountain.
He returned to Denerim with wild tales about dragons and heretics, which nobody believed. It will no doubt make for another interesting travel book, however.
He returned to Denerim a little worse for wear, and was granted funds and manpower to mount an expedition to study the temple in which the Urn is kept.
Knight-Commander Greagoir
- Main article: Codex entry: Knight-Commander Greagoir
- See also: Character: Greagoir
"It is the innocent folk of Ferelden who matter. I would lay down my life, and the life of any mage, to protect them."
"Your magic is a gift, but it's also a curse. The Circle of Magi has trained you, and we templars of the Chantry stand vigil to ensure that training is adequate."
Grim and taciturn, Greagoir has been knight-commander of the templar forces stationed at the Circle Tower for so many years that hardly anyone except the first enchanter recalls that he is not simply part of the tower itself.
With the destruction of the Circle, it's hard to imagine where Greagoir will go next.
He was killed following Uldred's uprising.
Lord Pyral Harrowmont
- Main article: Codex entry: Lord Pyral Harrowmont
- See also: Character: Pyral Harrowmont
"No one is born with rights to the throne. The sitting king may recommend a successor, but the Assembly ultimately decides who will rule."
House Harrowmont is one of the oldest noble houses, as old as Orzammar itself. Endrin's most trusted advisor, Harrowmont is well-known for being an able administrator, and the author of many compromises in the ever-warring Assembly.
His promise to King Endrin to keep Bhelen off the throne was upheld by the intervention of one Paragon and the Grey Warden. Harrowmont was named king by the Assembly, ending the internal strife in Orzammar.
His opposition of Prince Bhelen's bid for the throne ended badly. The Assembly named the prince king of Orzammar, and Bhelen's first act was to call for Harrowmont's execution.
Arl Rendon Howe
- Main article: Codex entry: Arl Rendon Howe
- See also: Character: Rendon Howe
"It appears it will be civil war after all, despite the darkspawn. Pity."
"It will be good to ride into battle once more, won't it, old friend?"
The arling of Amaranthine winds along the sinuous northeastern coast of Ferelden. The Waking Sea is known for its temper, and the storms that sweep in from the warmer northern waters are sudden and brutal. These are the lands of Rendon Howe.
He was born during the occupation, and like many of the nobles at the time, joined Prince Maric's rebels. He fought alongside young Bryce Cousland, future teyrn of Highever, and Leonas Bryland, future arl of South Reach, at the bloody battle of White River. It was the most catastrophic defeat of the entire occupation, from which only fifty rebel soldiers escaped alive.
Although he was decorated for valor by King Maric, Howe's abrasive manners have earned him almost universal dislike among his peers.
First Enchanter Irving
- Main article: Codex entry: First Enchanter Irving
- See also: Character: Irving
"The Circle will go on, and we will learn from this tragedy, and be strengthened by it."
"If you want to survive, you must learn the rules and realize that sometimes, sacrifices are necessary."
There is no higher office in a Circle Tower than that of first enchanter. The one who holds this title must not only be an able administrator, but also a mentor, leader, and surrogate parent to all the mages of the tower.
Irving has proven himself to be all these things with an added dose of cunning. Most apprentices know that little goes on in the tower that Irving does not know. He can soothe templars angered by some childish magical prank at the same time that he lauds the pranksters, and everyone walks away satisfied.
Although much of the Circle was destroyed by Uldred's abominations, Irving survived and plans to rebuild what he can.
He died when the tower became overrun by demons. The fate of Ferelden's Circle is now in question.
Arlessa Isolde
- Main article: Codex entry: Arlessa Isolde
- See also: Character: Isolde Guerrin
"For the one who delivers the Sacred Ashes of Our Lady will have the esteem of Redcliffe, and all the riches it is in my power to grant."
The arling of Redcliffe was a source of constant trouble for Emperor Reville during the occupation; it was rumored that since each new report sent the emperor into a fit of violent rage, his court had taken to poisoning messengers before they could deliver their accounts. Isolde's family was the tenth to be given the difficult task of governing Redcliffe, and since most of the previous arls had either been murdered by their banns or beheaded by the emperor, they did not approach the job with a great deal of enthusiasm.
Isolde met Eamon, not realizing he was the rightful heir to her father's domain, and quickly became smitten with him for being part of the resistance—never mind that it was her family he was resisting. Perhaps a bit too romantic for her own good, she insisted upon staying behind with Eamon when the rest of her family was driven out.
She gave her life to free Connor from demonic influence.[Bugs]
Unable to free him, Isolde took Connor's life to stop the demon.
Unable to stop the demon, Connor was slain by the Warden.
The Circle of Magi were finally called in, almost too late, and Connor was freed from the demon's power, though the damage to Redcliffe was severe.
Leliana
- Main article: Codex entry: Leliana
- See also: Character: Leliana
"In the cloister, away from the fuss and the flurry of the cities, I found peace. And in that stillness, I could hear the Maker."
"Here, with you... knowing the freedom of the road and the uncertainty of tomorrow... I feel alive again."
A lay sister of the Chantry who can beat the stuffing out of trained mercenaries would be notable enough, but one who also claims to have been sent to fight the darkspawn by the Maker Himself is... unusual to say the least.
She joined Alistair and the Warden in Lothering, insisting that she would prove useful.
She asked to join the Grey Wardens in their endeavors... sort of, but was turned away.
Her persistence, however, paid off. She made them relent and allow her to join in their travels.
There's more to Leliana than had even been apparent at Lothering, however. She spent much of her life as a bard in Orlais: a minstrel, assassin, and spy employed by the nobles of Val Royeaux in their elaborate games of intrigue.
Her decision to join the Chantry was not merely the product of her disenchantment with the life of a bard; Leliana was framed by her bard-master, and fled to escape execution as a traitor.
Leliana takes care to honor the Lothering cloister that took her in, and keeps symbols of Andraste's blessings close to her heart.
She eventually was driven away, and has not been seen since.
When the Warden corrupted and destroyed the Sacred Ashes of Andraste, Leliana drew her weapon and was killed alongside the guardian.
Leliana was a lay sister of the Chantry. In a vision, the Maker urged her to leave the cloister and battle the Blight. Her skill at archery, evidence of a surprising past, brought her to the attention of the Grey Warden named Alistair. She soon joined him as an ally—and, rumor says, a lover.
Loghain Mac Tir
- Main article: Codex entry: Loghain Mac Tir
- See also: Character: Loghain Mac Tir
"It takes more than legends to win a battle."
Loghain was born a farmer during a time when his country was under foreign occupation. When he was still a boy, he joined the resistance, where his considerable tactical genius quickly became apparent. He became close friends with Prince Maric, the last true heir to the Fereldan throne, and together they led the rebels to drive out the forces of the Orlesian Empire. Maric raised his friend to the nobility, and Loghain is now more of a symbol than a man: He represents the Fereldan ideals of hard work and independence.
"War is cruel. Every soul who fought alongside Maric knows this. And in it, there are no such things as innocents, only the living and the dead, and the degrees of guilt both bear."
"I passed your test. Fate has a twisted sense of humor, it seems."
He was defeated in single combat at the Landsmeet and summarily executed.
He was defeated in single combat at the Landsmeet, and sentenced to undertake the Joining ritual. He survived, and rejoined the fight for Ferelden as a Grey Warden.
Loghain has defined himself by the borders he seeks to maintain and expand. He is ever the tactician, and likes poring over maps both ancient and modern.
He struck the killing blow against the archdemon, sacrificing himself to end the Blight and save his country.
Morrigan
- Main article: Codex entry: Morrigan
- See also: Character: Morrigan
"Witch of the Wilds? Such idle fancies, those legends. Have you no minds of your own?"
Of herself, Morrigan says little. She does not deny being a witch of the Wilds, but beyond that, everything about her is in question.
Whatever Flemeth's purpose was, however, will probably never be known.
Morrigan's critical eye is not reserved solely for others. Knowing or not, she has a simple fondness for jewelry and is very particular about her appearance.
When this bargain was turned down, Morrigan disappeared.
After the battle, Morrigan disappeared.
Morrigan was the daughter of Flemeth, the legendary witch of the Korcari Wilds. Flemeth forced Morrigan to accompany the Grey Warden Alistair in his battle against the Blight, but Morrigan and Alistair did not get along. She enjoyed laughing at his every mistake, and followed him only for the entertainment value.
Oghren
- Main article: Codex entry: Oghren
- See also: Character: Oghren
"I'm not saying I should be your first pick for a dance partner at the inaugural ball, but in the Deep Roads, I'm your man."
Oghren of House Kondrat was once a promising member of the Warrior Caste. His house was not especially high-ranked, but many of its members, Oghren included, had won notable victories in the Provings and were considered to be rising in prestige. When a Smith Caste family with plenty of money but no political connections offered their daughter in marriage, his family accepted the match. And then everything changed.
His wife, Branka, was named a Paragon for her achievements. All of House Kondrat joined her newly-made noble House Branka... and vanished with her into the Deep Roads.
As time passed and it became more and more clear that Oghren had been abandoned, he became the butt of jokes throughout Orzammar. He took to drink, which didn't especially help. Drunk and humiliated, he challenged another warrior to a Proving over an insult and killed him. The match was meant to be fought to first-blood. As a punishment, he was stripped of his house and barred from bearing arms: The only fate worse for a warrior than exile.
Afterwards, having apparently nothing better to do, Oghren offered his services to the Grey Warden and left Orzammar to help end the Blight.
Oghren enjoys challenging his palate with alcohols of ever increasing rarity, potency, and outright lethality. This has afforded him no benefit whatsoever.
He was killed in a dispute with The Warden.
He left some time later for parts unknown.
"Now let's go introduce some darkspawn arses to my foot. Only polite thing to do."
Oghren was once married to Branka, Orzammar's sole living Paragon, but she left him to search for the Anvil of the Void. Oghren took to drink, then accidentally killed another warrior in a drunken Proving match. For this mistake, Oghren was stripped of his house and barred from baring weapons—for a warrior, worse than exile.
When the Grey Wardens called for aid from the dwarves, Orzammar's throne was contested and only a Paragon could settle the dispute. Oghren, hoping to find his wife, offered to guide the party through the Deep Roads.
But Branka's obsession with the Anvil of the Void had driven her mad. The Wardens helped choose a new king, and Oghren, having lost everything, left with the Wardens.
When the Blight was ended, Oghren settled down with his old flame Felsi and had a child. But domestic bliss did not last, and so Oghren travelled to Vigil's Keep in the hopes of becoming a Warden himself.
The Warden-Commander denied Oghren's request and sent the dwarf on his way.
Oghren survived the Joining. His extensive experience drinking bitter swill likely helped.
Oghren's passion for strong drink hasn't waned.
Felsi arrived at Vigil's Keep demanding to see Oghren. Their conversation ended poorly.
But Oghren and the Warden-Commander had a falling out, and Oghren left for parts unknown.
Alas, Oghren cannot hold off a hangover, let alone an entire army. He died when the darkspawn sacked Vigil's Keep again.
Oghren was a decorated and highly respected warrior of the Dwarven city of Orzammar—until his wife, the Paragon Branka, made him into a cuckold. Oghren turned to drink, then accidentally killed a young noble while intoxicated. After the dwarves stripped Oghren of his pride and weapons, he left for the surface. He settled in at the Gnawed Noble Tavern in Denerim, ranting about his glory days to anyone who would listen.
Shale
- Main article: Codex entry: Shale
- See also: Character: Shale
"What can I say? I have a heart of stone."
The golems of Orzammar once made up the vanguard of the dwarven army, holding back the tides of darkspawn that flooded out of the Deep Roads. But the art of making them was lost, and many of them succumbed to wear and damage in battle.
Shale has no memories either of the time spent fighting in the Deep Roads, or of coming to Honnleath, only a few spotty (and bitter) recollections of its last master.
The Warden unearthed Shale's control rod and awakened it, adding a bitter, malfunctioning golem to the menagerie of companions.
Three hundred years earlier, she had been Shayle of House Cadash, warrior of King Valtor, and a volunteer who chose to dedicate her life for all time to the defense of Orzammar.
Shale was destroyed while fighting the Warden.
Sten
- Main article: Codex entry: Sten
- See also: Character: Sten
"Either you have an enviable memory, or a pitiable life, to know nothing of regret."
The northern islands are remote: lush jungles that harbor cities rumored to be the most extraordinary ever built. These are the lands of the Qunari—lands that no foreign eyes ever see. Only the stories of the three Exalted Marches waged against the giants have reached the south... until the arrival of Sten.
The stoic giant in the cage was surely the strangest thing the people of Lothering had ever seen, until the Blight struck.
He remained in his cage to await death, and most likely found it.
He was sent with a small group of Qunari soldiers to investigate the Blight and report back. Outside Lothering, they were ambushed by darkspawn. They fought off the attack, but only Sten survived. Farmers found him dying and took him in, but when he awoke, alone and unarmed, he panicked, killing the entire family. Realizing he had sacrificed his honor, Sten waited for the villagers to come, and surrendered, expecting death.
His sword and his honor restored, Sten chose to continue with The Warden and take the battle to the archdemon.
Sten has an eye for paintings, an appreciation that might seem out of character, but is actually an extension of Qunari discipline. He respects an artist for careful composition, a skill that is as much about where the brushstroke stops as where it begins.
He left, intending to seek out the archdemon alone.
Sten was a soldier of the Beresaad, the vanguard of the Qunari. He was sent to Ferelden to investigate the threat of the Blight, but Sten and his brothers-in-arms were ambushed by darkspawn one night. Only Sten survived. He chose not to return to Par Vollen with his report, but lingered instead to fight the Blight, and to uncover the secrets of Ferelden's sweet, crumbly baked goods.
Bann Teagan Guerrin
- Main article: Codex entry: Bann Teagan Guerrin
- See also: Character: Teagan Guerrin
"The Bannorn will not bow to you simply because you demand it!"
Younger brother to Arl Eamon of Redcliffe, and uncle to King Cailan, Teagan holds the bannorn of Rainesfere, a tiny province of Redcliffe's squeezed between the Frostback Mountains and Lake Calenhad. Bann Teagan avoids the Denerim court except to go hunting with his nephew, and rarely makes himself heard at the Landsmeet, preferring to leave politics to his brother.
Valendrian
- Main article: Codex entry: Valendrian
- See also: Character: Valendrian, Elven Alienage, Hahren
"Remember that our strength lies in commitment to tradition and to each other."
Every alienage has a hahren, an elder. It falls to the hahren to arrange marriages for those without family, to negotiate with the guards when there's trouble, and to act as a sort of mayor and surrogate uncle to the people of the alienage.
The title, like so many things, is a holdover from the time of Arlathan, for hahrens are not necessarily the oldest person in their community, or even all that old. Tradition gives the role to the oldest soul, the wisest, cleverest, and the most level-headed. Valendrian has been hahren of the Denerim Alienage since he was in his thirties.
He was taken across the sea by Tevinter slavers. His whereabouts are now unknown.
He was nearly shipped to Tevinter by slavers, but was returned to the Alienage by the Warden.
Wynne
- Main article: Codex entry: Wynne
- See also: Character: Wynne
"I will not lie motionless in a bed, with coverlets up to my chin, waiting for death to claim me."
"It's perfectly all right to think about the many indignities you plan to inflict on your enemies, but to talk about it... well, that would be unladylike."
Wynne's talent became apparent early on, particularly her skill at healing magic. She was well-liked by all her mentors, and was recognized as an exceptionally gifted student. Even the templars who watched her could not deny that she represented the best the Circle had to offer. She was an intelligent young woman who possessed a quiet confidence and maturity beyond her years.
She spent many years mentoring apprentices within the Circle, and her peers thought so highly of her that she was asked to be First Enchanter Irving's successor, but she refused, saying that she had no desire to work in the upper echelons. When word reached the tower of King Cailan's call to arms, Wynne volunteered to go to Ostagar.
She escaped the battle with her life, and stayed to search for survivors and tend the wounded. When she returned home, she found that Uldred had gone on ahead of her, spreading the lie that the Wardens had betrayed Cailan and urging the Circle to support Loghain. Wynne immediately spoke with Irving and told him the truth. Irving then confronted Uldred about his falsehoods—prompting Uldred to use terrible measures to take over the tower.
While trying to save what was left of the Circle, Wynne was cut down by The Warden.
After dealing with Uldred and his abominations, Wynne joined The Warden in the quest to end the Blight.
For Wynne, the printed word is a window to true understanding. A scholar by heart, she feels that what a people commit to the page is sacred by definition.
She was killed fighting alongside the guardian when Andraste's Ashes were corrupted and destroyed.
Wynne was a senior enchanter of Ferelden's Circle of Magi, and one of the few humans who were lucky enough to survive the Battle of Ostagar. When Alistair called for allies against the Blight, she volunteered to march to Denerim, nagging her templar traveling companions the whole way.
Keeper Zathrian
- Main article: Codex entry: Keeper Zathrian
- See also: Character: Zathrian
"Even with all our magic and skill, we only delay the inevitable."
It is said the elves lived in Ferelden long before any others set foot there, and though most of their knowledge has been lost, it falls to the keeper of each clan to preserve what they have.
Zathrian is an old, severe elf with little love for outsiders, but his clan is facing a more trying enemy than most.
In Arlathvhen, it is common for all the hahren to hold a private council while their respective clans are still settling in. These meetings inevitably last well into the next day and end with furious shouting, such that many say that the true reason the clans all go their separate ways is that no two hahren can stand each other.
Zathrian is nothing at all like Keeper Marethari, but this is to be expected. He is older, more severe, and his clan is facing a much more terrible enemy than the usual shemlen that plague other clans.
He was killed along with the rest of his clan.
The Warden slew the werewolves, including Witherfang, ending the conflict.
At the urging of the Lady of the Forest, the Warden persuaded Zathrian to give up his own life, returning the werewolves to their human forms and saving the elves who had been inflicted with the curse.
Zevran Arainai
- Main article: Codex entry: Zevran Arainai
- See also: Character: Zevran Arainai
"The Crows send their regards."
"I intend to see this through to the end with you. After all... someone must take responsibility for preventing your untimely death."
Between the Tevinter Imperium, Rivain, and the Free Marches sits the nation of Antiva. Although it possesses few resources of its own, Antiva's location makes it a center for trade in the north, and the capital, Antiva City, is the wealthiest in the world. Antiva has virtually no army—the monarchy is too weak to support one. Most Antivans would be hard-pressed even to name the current king—as the true power lies in the hands of a dozen merchant princes, each with a personal army, and each locked in a constant struggle for power against all the others.
Anyone would think, then, that Antiva would be a ripe target for invasion by one of her neighbors, but even the Qunari leave Antiva alone for one very good reason: the House of Crows.
The most efficient, most feared, and most expensive guild of assassins in the world calls Antiva their home, and their reputation alone defends the borders.
He was killed, which likely has ruined the Crows' otherwise perfect record of successes.
They showed somewhat dubious mercy by letting him go, and what's become of him is anyone's guess.
They showed him unexpected mercy, and in return he swore to aid the Wardens on their quest to end the Blight.
They parted ways, however, and Zevran has not been seen since.
Things don't always work out as expected, however, and Zevran was killed in a disagreement with the Warden.
The word of a Crow, however, is little more than noise. Crows ambushed the Warden, and Zevran joined them. He was killed alongside his Antivan brothers.
Zevran shows an affinity for the finer things in life—hardly surprising for an Antivan Crow—but his appreciation can be more poetic than he lets on. A simple bar of refined silver or gold, uncomplicated by a craftsman's hammer, is elegantly valuable.
Zevran was an Antivan Crow who was sent to Ferelden to kill Alistair, a Grey Warden. Alistair defeated Zevran and spared the would-be assassin's life, on the condition that Zevran never show his face again. Fearing reprisal from the Crows for his failure, Zevran went into hiding in Denerim's elven alienage.
Witherfang
- Main article: Codex entry: Witherfang
- See also: Character: Witherfang
Witherfang is, according to the Keeper Zathrian, a wolf. He is no ordinary wolf, however. He is a wolf possessed by a powerful spirit and the source of the werewolf curse that plagues the Brecilian Forest. While Witherfang is hundreds of years old and very powerful in his own right, the only way to end his curse is to cut out his heart and bring it to Zathrian.
Dragon Age: Origins - Awakening
Anders
- Main article: Codex entry: Anders
- See also: Character: Anders
"Most people enjoy being kicked in the head to be woken each morning. Me, I'm just so picky."
Anders is an apostate mage. He was arrested by templars who intended to cart him back to the Circle Tower; Vigil's Keep was to have been a short stop on the long journey. Unfortunately, the keep was attacked just after the group arrived, and Anders was found standing over the bodies of his captors. He insists they were killed by darkspawn.
Regardless, Anders joined the Warden to defeat the darkspawn in Vigil's Keep.
The Warden-Commander allowed Anders to escape.
Although Anders fought alongside (Warden Commander's name) at Vigil's Keep, the Warden-Commander returned the mage to the templars' custody after the battle.
Although Anders fought alongside (Warden Commander's name) at Vigil's Keep, the Warden-Commander returned the mage to the templars' custody after the battle—with a request that the templars be lenient, given what Anders had done to help the Grey Wardens.
Afterwards, Anders was recruited into the Grey Wardens. He survived the Joining.
The Warden-Commander gave Anders a kitten as a gift. Anders stowed the kitten, Ser Pounce-a-lot, in the folds of his robe.
But the warehouse where the phylacteries were supposedly stored was actually a templar trap. In order to avoid trouble, the Warden-Commander released Anders into the templars' custody.
But the warehouse where the phylacteries were supposedly stored was actually a templar trap. The Warden-Commander stood with Anders against the templars, for which the mage was grateful.
Anders takes great pride in his appearance and enjoys fine things.
But Anders grew weary of working with the Grey Wardens and departed shortly after joining them.
Anders died when darkspawn sacked Vigil's Keep a second time.
The Architect
- Main article: Codex entry: The Architect
- See also: Character: The Architect
The Architect is a powerful darkspawn possessed of an intelligence seldom seen in his kind—and obsessed with Grey Wardens. He seemed to be conducting strange experiments in the old silverite mines near the Wending Wood, although their purpose was impossible to discern.
The Architect is often seen with a dwarven woman at his side. He treats her with great respect, even affection. No one knows her name nor has heard her speak.
The Architect and the Mother seem to be at odds. She is undermining his plan, whatever it is.
The Architect finally revealed his plan as the Warden-Commander was preparing to kill the Mother. The Architect was born with a mind of his own, able to ignore the call of the Old Gods. He dreams of freeing all darkspawn from their urge to seek out the Old Gods, thereby ending the threat of future Blights.
To awaken other darkspawn, however, he employs a modified version of the Joining using the blood of a Grey Warden. He sent the disciple known as the Withered to Vigil's Keep to propose an alliance, but the Wardens misunderstood the Withered's intentions and attacked.
The Warden-Commander and the Architect agreed that preventing future Blights is a noble goal. The Warden-Commander pledged that the Architect's work could continue after they killed the Mother together.
The Architect wished to ally with the Grey Wardens to destroy the Mother, but the Warden-Commander refused to deal with darkspawn and killed the Architect.
Justice
- Main article: Codex entry: Justice
- See also: Character: Justice
"I have no name, only a virtue to which I aspire."
A spirit of justice fought on behalf of the villagers that the baroness trapped in the Fade. When the Warden-Commander escaped through a tear in the Veil, Justice was dragged along and trapped in the body of the Grey Warden Kristoff.
The baroness's defeat left Justice trapped in the mortal world. He left the Blackmarsh seeking a new purpose.
The baroness's defeat left Justice trapped in the mortal world. Believing Kristoff's mission to be worthy, he agreed to travel with the Warden-Commander.
Justice likes tokens that remind him of the Fade as well as items that provide insight into Kristoff's life.
Justice disagreed with the Warden-Commander's actions and left.
Justice disapproved of the Warden-Commander's decision to ally with the Architect. A fight broke out and Justice was defeated. Whether the spirit perished or simply departed is unclear.
Justice likely died in the second siege on Vigil's Keep.
Mhairi
- Main article: Codex entry: Mhairi
- See also: Character: Mhairi
"Allow me to say, I'm very proud to serve under your command."
Mhairi was a knight in Fereldan's army until agreeing to join the Grey Wardens. She can think of no greater honor, nor better way to serve the nation, and is eager to undertake the Joining.
Nathaniel
- Main article: Codex entry: Nathaniel
- See also: Character: Nathaniel Howe
"The Howes are pariahs now, those of us left."
Nathaniel Howe is the son of the disgraced Arl Rendon Howe and among the last scions of the once-great family. He blames the Grey Wardens for his fathers death and had intended to assassinate the Warden-Commander. Upon seeing Vigil's Keep, however—his childhood home—Nathaniel decided to simply reclaim some of his family's treasures. The Wardens caught Nathaniel breaking in.
The Warden-Commander ordered Nathaniel executed.
The Warden-Commander released Nathaniel.
But the Warden-Commander grew tired of Nathaniel and killed him.
Such mercy had an odd effect on Nathaniel. He returned, seeking to become a Warden himself.
The Warden-Commander, impressed to hear that it took four Wardens to capture Nathaniel, involked the Right of Conscription, making the young Howe a Warden recruit.
Nathaniel is a sensible fellow who values practical gifts over useless trinkets.
Nathaniel became angry with the Warden-Commander and left for good.
The Mother
- Main article: Codex entry: The Mother
- See also: Character: The Mother
The Mother is a powerful, intelligent broodmother who holds a large group of awakened darkspawn under her spell. She is utterly insane, orchestrating twisted schemes with the darkspawn she controls.
Seneschal Varel
- Main article: Codex entry: Seneschal Varel
- See also: Character: Varel
Varel has spent his life defending Amaranthine. When Rendon Howe was arl, Varel briefly became seneschal of Vigil's Keep, but he repeatedly objected to Howe's orders and was demoted to lower and lower ranks. Nonetheless, he continued to serve with defiance. When Howe's acts turned more sinister, Varel secretly sheltered those in need and used what little power he had to counteract the Arl's atrocities. Soon, Varel was languishing in the dungeon awaiting execution. But Howe died first.
When the Grey Wardens took over Amaranthine, the order reappointed Varel as seneschal. Although Varel is not a Warden himself, his position as administrator of the Warden's lands makes him privy to many secrets of the order, including the Joining ritual. This rare honor is a testament to his character.
Sigrun
- Main article: Codex entry: Sigrun
- See also: Character: Sigrun
"A wise man once told me never to argue with someone better-armed than the entire warrior caste on parade."
Sigrun is a member of the Legion of the Dead, warriors exiled from Orzammar and sent on suicide missions against the darkspawn. The Warden-Commander found Sigrun fleeing a darkspawn next in Kal'Hirol, the last survivor of her group. She has broken the Legion's oath by not fighting to her death.
Sigrun wished to return to Kal'Hirol to finish what the Legion began, but the Warden-Commander deemed Sigrun's injuries too grave and sent her on way.
Sigrun joined the Warden-Commander to destroy the darkspawn nest.
After Kal'Hirol was purged of darkspawn, Sigrun agreed to join the Grey Wardens. She survived the Joining.
Sigrun bumped into Mischa, an acquaintance from Orzammar. Mischa once took Sigrun in, putting the casteless thief to work, but Sigrun betrayed Mischa in return.
Sigrun apologized, giving Mischa a ring, her only valuable possession. Mischa said she'd try to forgive her old friend.
Sigrun apologized to Mischa and gave her a ring, her only valuable possession. But the Warden-Commander recognized that the ring had great sentimental value to Sigrun and compensated Mischa instead. Mischa said she'd try to forgive her old friend.
Sigrun is fascinated by the surface world. She collects little curios from all over Thedas.
Eventually, Sigrun became angry with the Warden-Commander and left for good.
Sigrun violently objected to the Warden-Commander allying with the Architect. She died in the ensuing fight.
Sigrun met her end fighting darkspawn at Vigil's Keep, fulfilling her promise to the Legion.
Velanna
- Main article: Codex entry: Velanna
- See also: Character: Velanna
"I know a human crime when I see it. I have experienced more than enough of them."
Velanna wreaked havoc in the Wending Wood, murdering humans who crossed her path to terrorize the nearby villages into releasing her sister.
The Warden-Commander refused an alliance and killed Velanna, believing her crimes too great to go unpunished.
However, the Warden-Commander discovered that darkspawn were to blame for Velanna's sister's disappearance. Hoping to rescue her sister, Velanna offered to help the Warden-Commander destroy the darkspawn.
But Velanna grew impatient with the Warden-Commander and left the Grey Wardens.
Seranni reappeared as the Grey Wardens were making their way through the Mother's lair and explained how the Architect has convinced her of the similarities between the darkspawn and the Dalish. Seranni's passion may have swayed Velanna's feelings.
Velanna likely perished in the second darkspawn assault on Vigil's Keep.
Warden's Keep
Sophia Dryden
- Main article: Codex entry: Sophia Dryden
- See also: Character: Sophia Dryden
"Sophia Dryden is Ferelden's light and her most brilliant jewel; nothing on this earth can ever quench her fire."
Arlessa Sophia Dryden was the young Arland's rival for the throne of Ferelden. Dryden was a strong and charismatic leader with much support from the Bannorn. When Arland finally won the crown, Dryden refused to relent. She pushed her claim, was caught, and accused of treason. Her sympathizers continued to support her, however. In order to appease them, Dryden was spared execution, and forced to join the Grey Wardens instead.
Dryden survived the Joining and dazzled the Grey Wardens at Soldier's Peak with her leadership skills and charm. She eventually rose through the ranks to become Warden-Commander of Ferelden. Before Commander Dryden, the Grey Wardens were seen as a relic of an older time and an unnecessary drain on the nobles' coffers. Dryden, though, with her political connections, reinvigorated the Wardens and rapidly increased their numbers.
In the meantime, Arland proved himself a devious king, willing to go to brutal lengths to silence his opponents. Arland's reign of terror grew worse with each passing year, and some of the banns approached Commander Dryden in desperation, begging her to intercede. She agreed, and thus was the rebellion against King Arland born.
Arland learned of the rebellion and took steps to end it. He publicly suspended all tithing to the Grey Wardens and declared they were no longer welcome in Ferelden. Some of the Wardens, mindful that they were supposed to remain politically neutral, felt disgraced by Dryden's involvement in Fereldan politics and left her side even as the king's forces lay siege to Soldier's Peak. The siege took months and ended with the death of Sophia Dryden.
—From the personal files of Levi Dryden, merchant
The Golems of Amgarrak
Jerrik Dace - On Jerrik Dace
- Main article: Codex entry: Jerrik Dace
- See also: Character: Jerric Dace
Jerrik Dace is a noble from House Dace and a distant cousin of Lord Anwer Dace. He was unable to go on the Amgarrak expedition and now feels responsible for his brother going missing with the rest of the men. However, he does not believe his brother, Brogan, is dead and has enlisted the help of the Grey Warden to find him.
The Grey Warden - The Warden-Commander of Ferelden
- Main article: Codex entry: The Grey Warden
Your post as Warden-Commander of Ferelden has been filled with challenges and difficulties. As an Orlesian, the nobility in Amaranthine have given you a frosty reception.
Eager to find new allies on this hostile soil, your seneschal has urged you to help one of the powerful noble families of Orzammar: the Daces. Jerrik Dace has sent a missive to Vigil's Keep requesting your assistance in a sensitive matter
Weisshaupt has provided little direct assistance but has recently promised more aid if you complete one small task.
During the last Blight, the hero of Fereldan worked with a purported witch of the Korcari Wilds: Morrigan. The role she and her mother, Flemeth, played in the Blight has caused a great deal of concern to the First Warden. Although scarce on details, the First Warden is offering considerable support if you find Morrigan and acquire some information. What information you need to attain though, is frustratingly vague.
After you sent scouts to track down Morrigan, you discovered that you are not alone in looking for her. The templars believe that she is a dangerous blood mage and are offering a high price for her elimination, and the Crown has soldiers looking for her in southern Ferelden. Morrigan has ignited controversy in your ranks, too. Some believe she should be found and killed (such as your seneschal, Garevel), while others believe she should be spared if she cooperates and answers some questions.
Your scouts recently uncovered the location of Flemeth's Hut and report unusual activity in the area.
Witch Hunt
Flemeth's Demise - The Death of Flemeth?
- Main article: Codex entry: Flemeth's Demise
Flemeth saved you during the first stages of the Blight, and her daughter Morrigan helped nurse you and Alistair back to health. Morrigan later revealed that Flemeth was an abomination who has sacrified her daughters to preserve her own unnatural life.
You agreed to confront Flemeth before she could sacrifice Morrigan and found the enigmatic old crone at her hut in the Wilds. After a short exchange, she shapeshifted into a high dragon, and with difficulty, you killed her.
So much about Flemeth remains a mystery. Standing in front of her deserted home in the marsh sent a shiver up your spine--like someone walking over a grave.
The Mabari Hound
- Main article: Codex entry: The Mabari Hound
He has returned to your side after some time spent in the kennels in Denerim. Ferelden lost many of its war dogs during the Blight and kennel masters selected your prized hound to strengthen their packs. He has been mated with female hounds from all over Ferelden and has sired several litters of puppies.
After your defeat of the archdemon, Teyrn Fergus Cousland of Highever presented you with a prized, purebred mabari hound. He has joined you on your hunt for Morrigan.
After you were appointed as Warden-Commander of Ferelden, Teyrn Fergus Cousland of Highever presented you with a prized, purebred mabari hound. He has joined you on your hunt for Morrigan.
The Grey Warden - The Warden-Commander of Ferelden
- Main article: Codex entry: The Grey Warden
Your post as Warden-Commander of Ferelden has been filled with challenges and difficulties. As an Orlesian, the nobility in Amaranthine have given you a frosty reception.
Eager to find new allies on this hostile soil, your seneschal has urged you to help one of the powerful noble families of Orzammar: the Daces. Jerrik Dace has sent a missive to Vigil's Keep requesting your assistance in a sensitive matter
Weisshaupt has provided little direct assistance but has recently promised more aid if you complete one small task.
During the last Blight, the hero of Fereldan worked with a purported witch of the Korcari Wilds: Morrigan. The role she and her mother, Flemeth, played in the Blight has caused a great deal of concern to the First Warden. Although scarce on details, the First Warden is offering considerable support if you find Morrigan and acquire some information. What information you need to attain though, is frustratingly vague.
After you sent scouts to track down Morrigan, you discovered that you are not alone in looking for her. The templars believe that she is a dangerous blood mage and are offering a high price for her elimination, and the Crown has soldiers looking for her in southern Ferelden. Morrigan has ignited controversy in your ranks, too. Some believe she should be found and killed (such as your seneschal, Garevel), while others believe she should be spared if she cooperates and answers some questions.
Your scouts recently uncovered the location of Flemeth's Hut and report unusual activity in the area.
The Darkspawn Chronicles
People of Ferelden
- Main article: Codex entry: People of Ferelden
Ser Cauthrien
Ser Cauthrien was Teyrn Loghain Mac Tir's trusted second-in-command. She was always suspicious of Alistair, but put aside her dislike to support his battle against the Blight.
Bann Ceorlic
Bann Ceorlic was one of many nobles who came to Denerim for the Landsmeet, where he agreed with just about everything that Teyrn Loghain said.
Cullen
Cullen was one of many templars sent to defend Denerim from the darkspawn attack. His colleagues often whispered that he was mentally unstable.
Goldanna
Goldanna was a washer-woman who lived in Denerim. Alistair believed that she was his half-sister. She smelled of sour milk and cabbage.
Gorim
Gorim was once a second to a prince of House Aeducan. When the prince was framed for fratricide, Gorim was exiled to the surface, where he made a living as a merchant in Denerim.
Knight-Commander Greagoir
Knight-Commander Greagoir was the leader of the templars who watch over Ferelden's Circle of Magi. When the darkspawn assaulted Denerim, he brought many of his forces to the city's defence.
Habren
Habren was the spoiled daughter of Arl Bryland of South Reach. She enjoyed spending her father's coin and once became bored with a dozen separate puppies in a three-month period.
Herren
Herren was the partner of Master Wade, Denerim's most famous armorer. Herren managed the finances and day-to-day operations of their shop. He and Master Wade escaped the massacre in the Denerim market under mysterious circumstances.
Arl Rendon Howe
Rendon Howe was the hereditary arl of Amaranthine, known as a cagey ally to Teyrn Loghain. Dark rumors suggest he was behind the destruction of Castle Highever and the annihilation of the Cousland line.
Kardol
Kardol was an experienced member of the Legion of the Dead. He met Alistair in the Deep Roads and promised to fight the darkspawn along with him.
Sergeant Kylon
Sergeant Kylon was a member of Denerim's guard tasked with maintaining order in the market. Because his superiors did not think the post important, they sent Kylon a progression of ever-more-incompetent new recruits, usually the bastard sons of minor lords.
Ser Landry
Ser Landry was a knight in the service of King Cailan. He believed that the Grey Wardens were to blame for the king's death, and once challenged Alistair to a duel. He lost and was humiliated.
Mother Perpetua
Perpetua was the revered mother of the Denerim Chantry. She filled her days arguing with Sister Theohild over interpretation of the Chant.
Ser Perth
Ser Perth was a knight in the service of Arl Eamon of Redcliffe. He was sent on a quest for the legendary Urn of Sacred Ashes, but found no success.
Riordan
Riordan was a Grey Warden from Orlais. While on a diplomatic mission, he was arrested by Teyrn Loghain, and held in the dungeons of the arl of Denerim's palace. Alistair freed him, temporarily doubling the number of living Wardens in Ferelden.
Sanga
Sanga was the proprietress of the Pearl, a brothel in Denerim. Her establishment was renowned for the variety of temptations it offered.
Bann Teagan
Teagan Guerrin, the bann of Rainesfere, was the younger brother of Arl Eamon Guerrin. When Arl Eamon was incapacitated by poison, Teagan took over his duties.
Sister Theohild
Theohild was a priest in Denerim's chantry. She liked nothing more than to argue with Mother Perpetua over interpretations of the Chant.
Valendrian
Valendrian was the keeper of the elven alienage in Denerim, with years of experience in speaking up to defend his people when human guards came to threaten them.
Vaughan
Vaughan Kendells was the son of the late Arl Urien Kendells and the rightful arl of Denerim. He was captured by Arl Rendon Howe and left to rot in the dungeons of the arl of Denerim's estate. When Alistair broke into the estate to rescue Riordan, an Orlesian Grey Warden, he also released Vaughan.
Master Wade
Wade was a master blacksmith who ran a shop in Denerim with the assistance of his partner, Herren. He and Herren escaped the massacre in the Denerim market under mysterious circumstances.
Leliana's Song
Marjolaine
- Main article: Codex entry: Marjolaine
- See also: Character: Marjolaine
I remember...
Marjolaine commanded fear, respect, and a high price. She was the Orlesian aristocracy's answer when the next step in a rivalry was to end it. And she was everything I wanted to be. She never spoke of herself, never gave hints of who she was away from the game, but she always seemed to know how to captivate us. She was a mentor, not a leader. She suggested, and others grew wealthy in her shadow.
At the time I only casually noted that Marjolaine's satchel held just the bare essentials for travel. It was barren of anything even remotely sentimental.
Sketch
- Main article: Codex entry: Sketch
- See also: Character: Sketch
I remember...
I met Sketch in Val Royeaux, but he had spent so much of his life hiding among immigrants and smugglers he lacked the connection, resentment, and even accent of other city elves. His primary concerns were persecution as a mage, not an elf. He was not the bardic type, but I suppose the game was more forgiving than the templars.
I remember his books. Not unexpected for a mage, but most were mere distraction–the thinnest pulp of history. The only proper "mage tome" was a volume of Philosophy and Ethics Regarding the Manipulation of Summoned Creatures, which he owned because it was large. He was slowly covering every page with little preoccupied scribbles, as though the text wasn't even there.
Tug
- Main article: Codex entry: Tug
- See also: Character: Tug
I remember...
Tug. Tug was a dwarf with few words for strangers, and choice words for friends. He was a strange fit in Orlais, but he never offered a reason for why he left his home. I had accepted his company and friendship knowing he would share what he wanted in his own good time.
He laughed when I first asked about the silk kerchiefs. We'd be in some noble's vault pocketing gems, and Tug would be rummaging the linens. They were his practical luxury, because "one can never be sure of toiletries while traveling." He once said, far too loudly, that he'd spoiled himself and "lost his callus," but I suspect that may have been for Sketch's blanching reaction.
Silas
- Main article: Codex entry: Silas
- See also: Character: Silas Corthwaite
I remember...
Silas Corthwaite was an odd one. He eagerly fell back into the role of soldier. At the time I assumed he wanted revenge. I would come to see that he was trying to be the example that Raleigh had spoiled. I'm not sure Silas even realized he was doing it. Eventually I would feel a sad kinship–Marjolaine had offended my profession in a similar way.
Silas had been stripped of everything, so he had nothing personal to show his nature. But there was something about the way he looked at the trappings of the Chantry, especially the candles. He was a stranger there, like me, but as a Fereldan, he was not so far from home. It was important that everything be "just right," not because he believed, but because someone believed. I found that charming.